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"The home buying process can seem complicated, but if you take things step-by-step, you will soon be holding the keys to your own home and

living in Austin!"

Step 1
Step 2

0.1

FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH YOU CAN AFFORD

What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, downpayment and the interest rate. The calculators below can help, but it is best to visit a lender to find out for sure.

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How much home can you afford?


Buying vs. Renting

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Need help with your downpayment and/or closing costs?

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Home buying programs in your state

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A housing counselor can help you figure out how to manage and pay off your debt, and start saving for that downpayment!

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Find a housing counselor near you

Step 3

0.3

SHOP FOR A LOAN

Save money by doing your homework. Talk to several lenders, compare costs and interest rates, negotiate to ge t a better deal. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan.

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Looking for the best mortgage: shop, compare, negotiate


Let FHA help you

Step 4

0.4

LEARN ABOUT HOME BUYING PROGRAMS

Home buying programs in your state

FHA loan programs offer lower down payments and are a good option for first-time home buyers.

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Let FHA help you

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HUD's special homebuying programs:

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Good Neighbor Next Door Program - for police officers, teachers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians


Homeownership for public housing residents


Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program (Section 184)

0.6

MAKE AN OFFER

Discuss the process with your real estate agent. If the seller counters your offer, you may need to negotiate until you both agree to the terms of the sale.

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Making an offer

Step 5
Step 6

0.5

SHOP FOR A HOME

Wish list – what features do you want?


Home-shopping checklist – take this list with you when comparing homes
"Fixers-upper" - home purchase and repair programs


Manufactured (mobile) homes


Shopping for Homes FAQs

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Step 7
Step 8
Step 9

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GET A HOME INSPECTION

Make your offer contingent on a home inspection. An inspection will tell you about the condition of the home, and can help you avoid buying a home that needs major repairs.

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For Your Protection Get a Home Inspection


10 Questions to ask a home inspector

0.8

SHOP FOR HOME OWNERS INSURANCE

Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance. Be sure to shop around.

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Homeowners insurance


12 ways to lower your homeowners insurance costs

0.9

SIGN PAPERS

You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you sign!

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Settlement Costs and Helpful Information

Above information taken from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development website

Buyers - Let me help you find the perfect home for you.

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