Steps to Prepare for Homeownership 1. Decide how much home you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between 2 and 3 times your gross income. 2. Determine if you have enough downpayment to qualify for a mortgage. Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price as a downpayment 3. Consider other sources of help with a downpayment. For example, if you have an IRA account, you can use money you’ve saved for buying your first home without paying a penalty for early withdrawal. Also check with your state and local government on downpayment assistance programs for first-time buyers. 4. Get your credit in order. Obtain a copy of your credit report. 5. Determine how large a mortgage you can qualify for. Also explore different loans options and decide what’s best for you. 6. Organize all the documentation a lender will need to preapprove you for a loan. 7. Determine if you have to cover your closing costs. Closing costs, including taxes, attorney’s fee, and transfer fees average between 2 and 7 percent of the home price. 8. Calculate the costs of homeownership, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and association fees, if applicable. 9. Find an experienced REALTOR® who can help you through the process. Go Back To Buyer's Tips Index Go To Homepage