First financial moves: Buying your first home

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Life and money

Buying your first home
By Bankrate.com

Tired of renting and ready to buy a home of your own? Before falling in love with a house or neighborhood, do your homework. Preparing for the adventure could save you lots. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

..............................................................................

What is a . . . ?
	Mortgage, Escrow account, Credit report, Credit score and other Frequently asked questions

Do your homework . . .
	10 biggest home-buying mistakes, Home prices in your neighborhood, Do's and don'ts for the months leading up to a purchase

Arrange the financing . . .
	Coming up with a down payment, No-money-down home buying, Fixed or adjustable rate, To broker or not to broker

Ready to buy . . .
	10 questions to ask when applying for a mortgage, Your mortgage broker to-do list, How to prevent closing-day surprises, Closing-day rights and wrongs

Calculators . . .
	How much house can you afford?, Calculate mortgage payments

-- Updated: Oct. 23, 2002

See Also

•	Just how good a rate is available?
•	What those mortgage terms mean
•	Understanding your credit score

National Mortgage Rates

OVERNIGHT AVERAGES

Rates may include points.

30 yr fixed mtg	4.97%
15 yr fixed mtg	4.53%
5/1 jumbo ARM	4.78%

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BASICS SERIES

Mortgage Basics

Follow the process from house hunting
to closing.

•	How much can I afford?
•	How much is my payment?
•	What documents do I need?
•	What is a home inspection?
•	What is the closing?
•	Can I remove PMI?