Kathy Guardia
239-273-0713  
kathyguardia@earthlink.net
Providing Real Estate Services for Bonita Springs,
Bonita Beach, Estero, Ft.. Myers, Ft. Myers Beach and
Naples Areas
The home buying process can seem complicated, but if you take things
step-by-step, you will soon be holding the keys to your own home!


What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, down
payment and the interest rate. The calculators below can help, but it is best to visit a lender to
find out for sure.

How Much Can You Afford?
Buying vs Renting

Need help with your down payment and/or closing costs?

Home buying programs in your state

A housing counselor can help you figure out how to manage and pay off your debt, and start
saving for that down payment!

Find a housing counselor near you

2.  Know your rights

Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)
Borrower's rights
Predatory lending

3.  Shop for a loan

Save money by doing your homework. Talk to several lenders, compare costs and interest
rates, negotiate to get a better deal. Consider getting pre-approved for a loan.

Looking for the best mortgage: shop, compare, negotiate - brochure
Let FHA help you
Why Ask for an FHA Loan?
Learn about interest only loans

4.  Learn about home buying programs

Home buying programs in your state

FHA loan programs offer lower down payments and are a good option for first-time home
buyers.

Let FHA help you
HUD's special home buying programs   Good Neighbor Next Door (formerly known as
Teacher/Officer/Firefighter Next Door)
Hurricane Evacuees discounted sales
Home ownership for public housing residents
Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program (Section 184)

5.  Shop for a home

Choose a real estate agent
Wish list - what features do you want?
Home-shopping checklist – take this list with you when comparing homes
"Fixer-uppers" - home purchase and repair programs
Manufactured (mobile) homes
Build a home

If you choose a home in a neighborhood with a Home Owners Association (HOA), be sure
to request a copy of the HOA packet, so you can review before closing.

6.  Make an offer

Discuss the process with your real estate agent. If the seller counters your offer, you may
need to negotiate until you both agree to the terms of the sale.

Making an offer

7.  Get a home inspection

Make your offer contingent on a home inspection. An inspection will tell you about the
condition of the home, and can help you avoid buying a home that needs major repairs.

For Your Protection Get a Home Inspection
10 Questions to ask a home inspector  

8.  Shop for homeowners insurance

Lenders require that you have homeowners insurance. Be sure to shop around.

Homeowners insurance
12 ways to lower your homeowners insurance costs

9.  Sign papers

You're finally ready to go to "settlement" or "closing." Be sure to read everything before you
sign!

Settlement Costs and Helpful Information
BUYING A HOME
BUYING
A HOME