Follow this comprehensive list to help insure smooth sailing throughout the Home Buying Process.
Are you in the market for a new home? If so, you're probably wondering how to budget for it. It can be tricky to figure out exactly how much money you'll need, but don't worry - we've got you covered! We will list many of the expenses you should expect when buying a new home.
So whether you're just getting started or are almost ready to close on your dream house, read on for helpful tips on budgeting for your new home!
A comprehensive list the experts say you should plan for along the way.
1. Down Payment
As you set your savings goal for your purchase, your down payment is likely already top of mind. And, like many other people, you may believe you need to set aside 20% of the home’s purchase price for that down payment – but that’s not always the case. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) says:
“One of the biggest misconceptions among housing consumers is what the typical down payment is and what amount is needed to enter homeownership. Having this knowledge is critical to know what to save . . .”
The good news is, you may be able to put as little as 3.5% (or even 0%) down in some situations. To understand your options, partner with a trusted professional who can go over the various loan types, down payment assistance programs, and what each one requires.
2. Earnest Money Deposit
Another item you may want to plan for is an earnest money deposit. While it isn’t required, it’s common in today’s highly competitive market because it can help your offer stand out in a bidding war.
So, what is it? It’s money you pay as a show of good faith when you make an offer on a house. This deposit works like a credit. You’re using some of the money you already saved for your purchase to show the seller you’re committed and serious about their house. It’s not an added expense, it’s just paying some of that up front. First American explains what it is and how it works:
“The deposit made from the buyer to the seller when submitting an offer. This deposit is typically held in trust by a third party and is intended to show the seller you are serious about purchasing their home. Upon closing the money will generally be applied to your down payment or closing costs.”
In other words, an earnest money deposit could be the very first check you’ll write toward your purchase. The amount varies by state and situation. Realtor.com elaborates:
“The amount you’ll deposit as earnest money will depend on factors such as policies and limitations in your state, the current market, what your real estate agent recommends, and what the seller requires. On average, however, you can expect to hand over 1% to 2% of the total home purchase price.”
Work with a real estate advisor to understand any requirements in your local area and what they’ve recommended for other buyers in your market. They’ll help you determine if it’s something that could be a useful option for you.
3. Closing Costs
The next thing to plan for is your closing costs. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) defines closing costs as:
“The upfront fees charged in connection with a mortgage loan transaction. …generally including, but not limited to a loan origination fee, title examination and insurance, survey, attorney’s fee, and prepaid items, such as escrow deposits for taxes and insurance.”
Basically, your closing costs cover the fees for various people and services involved in your transaction. NAR has this to say about how much to budget for:
“A home costs more than just the sale price. For example, closing costs—which make up about 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price—are a major added expense…Lenders provide a Closing Disclosure at least three business days prior to closing on a mortgage. But buyers will need to budget for these added costs ahead of time to avoid sticker shock days before closing.”
The key takeaway is savvy buyers plan ahead for these expenses so they can come into the process prepared. Freddie Mac sums it up like this:
“If you're in the market to buy a home, your down payment is probably top of mind. And rightly so - it's likely the biggest cost of homebuying. However, it is not the only cost and it's critical you understand all your expenses before diving in. The more prepared you are for your down payment, closing and other costs, the smoother your homebuying journey will be.”
MULLIN MESSAGE: A comprehensive list can help to insure smooth sailing throughout the Home Buying Process.
The first and arguably most important expense you'll need to budget for is the down payment. Depending on your financial situation, you may be able to put down as little as three percent of the home's purchase price. However, most experts recommend that you aim for 20%. This will help you avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI), which can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly payments.
If you're having trouble saving up for a down payment, there are a few options to consider. You could get help from family or friends, take out a home equity loan, or tap into your retirement savings (if you're eligible).
Once you've saved up for the down payment, you'll need to start budgeting for closing costs. These are the fees associated with finalizing your home purchase, and they can add up quickly.
Typically, closing costs are between two and five percent of the total loan amount. So, if you're taking out a $250,000 mortgage, you should expect to pay $5000-$12,500 in closing costs. Some common expenses include loan origination fees, appraisal fees, and title insurance.
In addition to the down payment and closing costs, you'll need to have money set aside for repairs and renovations. Even if you're buying a brand-new home, there's a good chance you'll want to make some changes - after all, it's your home! Whether you're planning on painting the walls, adding new appliances, or gutting the kitchen, make sure you have a realistic estimate of the costs before making any offers.
Finally, don't forget to factor in the cost of moving! Unless you're able to do it yourself, hiring professional movers can be quite expensive. Be sure to get at least three quotes before making a decision, and don't forget to factor in the cost of packing materials!
We hope this list has been helpful as you budget for your new home. Remember, it's important to do your research and know what to expect before making any offers.
Connect with the Mullin Group today, so you have reliable expertise on what to expect when buying a home.