Common Questions from Homebuyers..1

1.   Why should I buy, instead of rent? o    Answer: a home is an investment. When you rent, you write your monthly check and that money is gone forever. But when you own your home, you can deduct the cost of your mortgage loan interest from your federal income taxes, and usually from your state taxes. This will save you a lot each year, because the interest you pay will make up most of your monthly payment for most of the years of your mortgage. You can also deduct the property taxes you pay as a homeowner. In addition, the value of your home may go up over the years. Finally, you'll enjoy having something that's all yours - a home where your own personal style will tell the world who you are.

2.   What are "HUD homes," and are they a good deal?

o    Answer: homes can be a very good deal. When someone with an insured mortgage can't meet the payments, the lender forecloses on the home; HUD pays the lender what is owed; and HUD takes ownership of the home. Then we sell it at market value as quickly as possible. Read all about buying a home. Check our listings of homes and homes being sold by other federal agencies.

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3.   Can I become a homebuyer even if I have I've had bad credit, and don't have much for a down-payment?

o    Answer: You may be a good candidate for one of the federal mortgage programs. Start by contacting one of the HUD-funded housing counselling agents that can help you sort through your options. Also, contact your local government to see if there is any local home buying programs that might work for you. Look in the blue pages of your phone directory for your local office of housing and community development or, if you can't find it, contact your mayor's office or your county executive's office. 

4.   Are there special homeownership grants or programs for single parents?

o    Answer: There is help available. Start by becoming familiar with the home buying process and pick a good real estate broker. Although as a single parent, you won't have the benefit of two incomes on which to qualify for a loan, consider getting pre-qualified, so that when you find a house you like in your price range you won't have the delay of trying to get qualified.

 Contact one of the HUD-funded housing counselling agencies in your area to talk through other options for help that might be available to you. Research buying a HUD home, as they can be very good deals. Also, contact your local government to see if there are any local that could help you. Look in the blue pages of your phone directory for your local office of housing and community development or, if you can't find it, contact your mayor's office or your county executive's office. 

5.   Should I use a real estate broker? How do I find one?

o    Answer: Using a real estate broker is a very good idea. All the details involved in home buying, particularly the financial ones, can be mind-boggling. A good real estate professional can guide you through the entire process and make the experience much easier.