Buyer Q&A

  • Property type: Will your next home be a single-family home, condo/apartment, or townhome?
  • Size: Do you want something comparable to your current home or more square footage for a growing family?
  • Condition: Are you looking for a brand-new build, a fixer-upper, or something in between?
  • Schools: Is a strong education system in your desired area a need or priority?
  • Commute: How will living in this home impact your commute to work, to your children’s schools, and to any child care assistance?
  • Neighborhood: Is this a location where you want to spend your free time?

Use the 28/36 rule, according to Investopedia:

  • 28: borrowers should aim to spend no more than 28% of their gross monthly income on housing costs.
  • 36: borrowers shouldn’t spend more than 36% on debt payments (a mortgage, car loan, student loans, credit cards, alimony, etc.).

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