How much house can you afford? -- Let us help you do the math by figuring your housing expenses against your income.

Get preapproved, not simply prequalified -- It makes things easier for both you and the seller.

FSBO or agent? -- Examine the pros and cons of selling or buying a home without a real estate agent.

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Beat the down payment blues -- See the rate you want, but don't have the cash you need? Don't despair. There are plenty of ways to find help.

Types of mortgages: fixed vs. adjustable -- Should you take advantage of the low interest rates offered with adjustable rate mortgages or go for the security of a fixed rate? Take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Alternative ways to finance -- Choices for borrowers expand to include zero-down, portable, interest only, hybrid and no-interest piggyback loans.

More Financing stories

What to look for inside and out -- Don't fret about the colors. There are more important things to examine.

10 biggest mistakes of home buyers -- A veteran home builder gives some tips on what NOT to do when buying a home.

How to find comparables -- A little research can help you find the right price, if you know where to look.

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What happens at closing -- What you can expect at a real estate closing, from setting the date to signing papers and potential last-minute hurdles.

When appraisals go bad -- What do you do when the appraisal doesn't meet the sales price? It can happen, and it can foul up a deal.

Understanding closing costs -- Typical closing costs run from 3 to 5 percent of your loan amount. Here's what to expect. .

More Contract to closing stories

Are you ready for a mortgage? -- Before you buy, check your understanding on how mortgages work with this quiz.

Tips for the first-time home buyer (FTHB) -- You may be a rookie, but you don't have to act that way.

New house vs. buying used -- Each approach has both pros and cons.

More First-time home buyer stories