Follow These Steps For a
Stress-Free Homebuying Experience
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone in life, but it can also be a daunting process. From understanding your budget to navigating the real estate market and securing a mortgage, there are many steps to consider. Amerant Mortgage strives to provide first-time homebuyers with the tools for a positive homebuying experience, and we’ve built a comprehensive guide to help make the journey to homeownership a smoother and more informed one.
Step One
Assess Your Financial Situation
Before you start searching for your dream home, it's crucial to evaluate your financial health. Here are some steps to help you:
Establish a budget: Determine how much you can comfortably afford, considering your income, expenses, and savings goals. Using the Amerant Mortgage calculator tool can help estimate your affordability.
Check your credit score: A higher credit score can lead to better mortgage rates. Obtain a copy of your credit report, correct any errors, and work on improving your score if necessary.
Save for a down payment: Down payments typically ranging from 3% to 20% of the home's purchase price. While Amerant Mortgage offers solutions for first-time homebuyers that can minimize this expense, it is always a good idea to start saving early!
Step Two
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Getting pre-approved with Amerant Mortgage will give you a clear picture of how much you can borrow and what your potential monthly payments could be. It’s easy to get pre-approved with an Amerant Mortgage Loan officer!
Step Three
Find a Real Estate Agent and Start House Hunting
A qualified real estate agent can guide you through the home-buying process, from searching for properties to negotiating offers and closing the deal. Seek referrals from friends and family or or talk to us, we work with real estate agents across the country making homeownership dreams a reality.
Begin your home search by considering your needs and preferences. Factors to consider include location, size, type of home, school districts, and proximity to amenities. Take your time touring homes and neighborhoods to find the right fit.
Step Four
Make an Offer
When you find a property you like, work with your real estate agent to draft a competitive offer. Be prepared for negotiations with the seller and consider contingencies that protect your interests, such as a home inspection contingency.
Step Five
Conduct a Home Inspection
A thorough home inspection is crucial to identify any potential issues or necessary repairs. This step can save you from purchasing a property with hidden problems.
Step Six
Secure Financing
Thanks to your pre-approval, once your offer is accepted, it's time to finalize your Amerant Mortgage loan. You’ll work closely with your local Loan Officer and we will help provide everything you need for a seamless process. We'll guide you through the whole process from start to finish with tutorials, videos, and check-ins from your lender. We're here for you!
Step Seven
Close the Deal
During the closing process, you'll review and sign various documents, including the mortgage or deed of trust agreement and property title. Closing costs are an essential part of the home buying process, and at Amerant Mortgage, we want to ensure that you’re well-informed of what closing costs may involve when finalizing your home purchase. Closing costs are the fees and expenses associated with finalizing your mortgage. These costs can include appraisal charges, title insurance, attorney fees, property taxes, and insurance payments, as well as recording fees and additional taxes. Don’t let these fees overwhelm you, our dedicated team of mortgage loan officers will work with you to find the best solution and ensure that you get the most out of your mortgage deal.
Step Eight
Move In and Celebrate
Congratulations, you're a homeowner! Celebrate your accomplishment and begin the process of moving into your new home. Don't forget to budget for additional expenses like property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and maintenance costs.
Step Nine
Continue Learning
Homeownership is a long-term commitment, and there's always more to learn. Stay informed about home maintenance, budgeting, refinancing, and any changes in the real estate market to ensure you make the most of your investment.
Buying your first home can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By carefully assessing your finances, seeking professional guidance with Amerant Mortgage, and staying informed throughout the process, you can achieve your goal of becoming a homeowner with confidence. Remember that each person's journey to homeownership is unique, so take your time and enjoy the process.