Before you begin searching for a new property, you need to figure out how much you can afford. This amount depends on your gross income, monthly expenses, credit score, and loan interest rate. Use the affordability calculator below to help you figure out how much you can afford on your new property.

Affordability Calculator

  Step 2: What is your credit score?

  One of the contributing factors to finding the best loan and interest rate is your credit score. The higher the credit score, the lower the interest rate. You can get a free credit report online at www.freecreditreport.com.

  You can also order an online credit report from one of the three national credit bureaus, which are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. The three credit bureaus are independent of each other and do not share information so be sure and put thought toward ordering a report from all three bureaus.

Equifax - http://www.equifax.com

Experian - http://www.experian.com

TransUnion - http://www.transunion.com

  Step 3: Shop for a loan

  Buying property is one of the biggest purchases you will ever make. Save money by doing your homework on the best rates available. Talk to several lenders and compare costs to get the best deal. Sometimes the best deal is with your local bank or lender. Have your local bank or financial advisor explain the various types of loans such as fixed rate, adjustable rate, and interest only loans.

  Step 4: Search for a new property

  We offer an extensive property search utility to assist you with finding the property of your dreams. Besides the basic residencial home search, we offer an advanced residential home search that allows you to choose from several home options ranging from the home exterior to the construction type. Choose from the various search options below:

Basic Residential Home Search

Advanced Residential Home Search

Land/Acres Search

Commercial Real Estate Search

  Step 5: Making an offer

  If the seller is using a Realtor®, he or she will have the necessary purchase forms available. However, if the seller advertised his or her property on HomeQuickFinder.com, we supplied the appropriate real estate forms to be used when an offer has been made and/or accepted. Sometimes this process can be complicated if the buyer and seller cannot agree on a final selling price. Once you have both agreed on a price, make sure the agreement is contingent on the property inspection report (next step).

  Keep in mind the provided real estate documents do not constitute the rendering of legal advice or services. These documents are intended for informational use only and are not a substitute for legal advice. State laws vary, so consult an attorney on all legal matters. This product was not necessarily prepared by a person licensed to practice law in your state.

  Step 6: Get a property inspection

  Once you've made an offer and it has been accepted, be sure to order a property inspection from a certified property inspector. The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is the oldest and largest professional society of home inspectors in North America. To find a property inspector in your area, please visit the ASHI web site.

American Society of Home Inspectors

  Step 7: Shop for homeowners insurance

  Lenders require proof of homeowners insurace before signing any official paperwork. Your current insurnace agent will be able to assist you with coverage and rates. Be sure to shop around for the best quote.

  Step 8: Sign the papers

  Finally, you are almost finished! The last step is the "property closing". This process will usually take place at the title company but can also take place in the new property or at the lender's facility. Be sure to read everything before you sign your life away!

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