When it comes to buying a home, it can feel a bit intimidating to know how much you need to save and where to find that information. But you should know, youre not expected to have all the answers yourself. There are many trusted professionals who can help you understand your finances and what youll need to budget for throughout the process.
To get you started, here are a few things 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 homes purchase price for that down payment but thats 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 isnt required, its common in todays highly competitive market because it can help your offer stand out in a bidding war.
So, what is it? Its money you pay as a show of good faith when you make an offer on a house. This deposit works like a credit. Youre using some of the money you already saved for your purchase to show the seller youre committed and serious about their house. Its not an added expense, its 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 youll write toward your purchase. The amount varies by state and situation. Realtor.com elaborates:
The amount youll 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 theyve recommended for other buyers in your market. Theyll help you determine if its 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, attorneys 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 costswhich make up about 2% to 5% of the homes purchase priceare a major added expenseLenders 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 youre in the market to buy a home, your down payment is probably top of mind. And rightly so its likely the biggest cost of homebuying. However, it is not the only cost and its 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.
Bottom Line
Knowing what to budget for in the homebuying process is essential. To make sure you understand these and any other expenses that may come up, lets connect so you have reliable expertise on what to expect when you buy a home.
