The ABCs of Becoming a Homeowner

Welcome to the Round Table—talk with local Realtors and lenders and get answers to all your homebuying questions! HOMEOWNERSHIP 101 Welcome to the Round Table Join us for an informative and relaxed conversation designed to take the mystery out of buying your first home. We'll cover the basics, answer your questions and help you understand the steps to becoming a confident homeowner. Whether buying a home is part of your plan for the next few months or sometime next year, this roundtable will help you understand what to expect and how you can begin preparing now. We’ll talk through: • How credit, income and monthly expenses influence your buying power • Determining a comfortable price range—not simply the maximum you qualify for • Loan programs, down payment choices and possible assistance options • The difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval • Expenses beyond the down payment, including closing costs • What to consider when touring and comparing homes • How offers are written, submitted and negotiated • The role of the purchase contract and important terms to understand • What inspections and appraisals can tell you about a property • The steps between having an offer accepted and receiving your keys • Common mistakes buyers make and ways to avoid them • How a knowledgeable Realtor and lender can guide you throughout the process We’ll also leave plenty of time to answer your questions.