Ten steps to buying a home

Step 1 : Figure out how much you can afford. What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, down payment and the interest rate. The calculators can help, but it is best to visit a lender to find out for sure. A housing counselor can help you figure out how to manage and pay off your debt, and start saving for that down payment!

Step 2 :Know your rights

Step 3 : Shop for a loan. Save money by doing your homework. Talk to several lenders, compare costs and interest rates, and negotiate to get a better deal. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan.

Step 4 : Learn about home buying programs

Step 5 : Shop for a home. Choose a real estate agent, Wish list - what features do you want, Home-shopping checklist - take this list with you when comparing homes.

Step 6 : Make an offer. Discuss the process with your real estate agent. If the seller counters your offer, you may need to negotiate until you both agree to the terms of the sale.

Step 7 : Get a home inspection. Make your offer contingent on a home inspection. An inspection will tell you about the condition of the home, and can help you avoid buying a home that needs major repairs.

Step 8 : Shop for homeowners insurance Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance. Be sure to shop around.

Step 9 : Sign papers. You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you sign!

Step 10: The House is yours now.

Source : http://www.guide2homeloan.com/loans/tips/default.aspx

Home Equity Loan

Taking home equity loan to meet your financial circumstances is an intelligent decision. Life becomes an easy victim of all adversities and unforeseen situations. Thus home equity loan is a tool to face financial instability without any fear and risk.

Your home can do wonders for you. It’s a life long asset and can be used to protect you from any financial threat. Home equity loans are designed for home owners so that they can live a hassle free life. Besides improving your financial status, it can be used for personal needs and expenditure.

Home equity loans are meant for releasing equity of your home, which has built-up in the recent years. After releasing equity, you will be provided with good amount which can be used further for your personal requirements. Such as home renovation, wedding, vacation, paying off previous debts, car purchase etc. Hence home equity loan is an effective tool to answer all your money issues.

Home equity loans are similar to secured loans. They have low interest and flexibility in monthly installments. Long repayment duration is also very beneficial. However you have to keep your home as collateral. You bear the risk losing your home, if you are not able to repay to the lender.

Home equity loans should not be misunderstood as selling your home. You are not required to sell any of your property. Being a home owner for some years gives you an option to release equity of your home. To get good deals from lenders, you should try to search online. This way you can contact some of the best lenders and also make yourself aware of all the norms of home equity loans.

Source : http://loan-homes.blogspot.com/