5 Common Myths About Homeownership Buying a home is an important step in building a secure financial future. But because of some common misconceptions, many people believe homeownership is out of their reach. Don’t let these myths keep you from the personal and financial rewards of homeownership. Myth #1
“I don’t have enough money for a down payment.”
In the past, buying a home required a 20% down payment. But not today. In fact, 7 out of 10 first-time homebuyers make a down payment of 10% or less. Contact us about loan programs that can help you buy a home without a lot of cash, or any at all. Myth #2
“I have less-than-perfect credit, so I can’t get a mortgage.”
A less-than-perfect credit history doesn’t have to stand in your way of reaching your homeownership goals. Team Sandy Blanton has helped hundreds of individuals move beyond credit challenges into homes of their own. We may have solutions for your situation. Myth #3
“It’s less expensive to rent.” In fact, you may be surprised how much home you can buy for the same rent check you're sending in now, especially when you consider the tax advantages of homeownership. And unlike rental costs, your monthly principal and interest payments will stay the same for the life of a fixed-rate mortgage. Myth #4
“I won’t be able to fit a mortgage in my budget.”
Our goal is to help you succeed financially, so we’ll carefully review your loan options with you and help you choose the loan that’s right for you. With a loan that fits your budget and your financial goals, your home will be a powerful tool in building a secure future for you and your family. Sandy is a mortgage broker and can help you through the mortgage process or refer you to someone who can meet your specific needs Myth #5
"Now may not be the right time to buy.” Because home prices historically increase (and only occasionally decline), buying as soon as you’re able is can be a more effective strategy than trying to time the real estate market. Moreover, as a homeowner, you’ll be building wealth as your home equity grows. 
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First Time Buyers >The Seller May Pay
The costs of buying a home may be daunting. For example, you may have finally saved enough for a down payment on your first home, with a little left over to buy the furniture you will need. Then you hear about having to pay closing costs you weren't anticipating, and this may seem like a real setback.
One way to cover such a shortage is to make the sellers an offer that calls for them to credit you for some of the closing costs. As a rule, the sellers may pay a maximum of 3 percent of the sales price if the buyer is putting five percent down. If the buyer is making a down payment of 10 percent or more, the seller can contribute up to 6 percent of the sales price to cover the buyer's closing costs. Some items, such as prepaid taxes and the first month's mortgage payment, must be paid by the buyers. Sellers may also contribute to paying the appraisal, points, title insurance, settlement attorney fees, state or local transfer taxes and similar items.
Keep in mind that if the credit is included in the price of the house, the appraiser will have to justify the amount, based on sales prices of similar homes in the neighborhood.
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What little-known folk remedy is said to help keep bats away from your home?
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According to some rural homeowners, if you tar and feather a two-by-four board and place it in your yard, it will ward off bats! |
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 You can find great local Pensacola, Florida real estate information on Localism.com Sandy Blanton is a proud member of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network, a free online community to help real estate professionals grow their business.
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