Your cash on hand will have to cover both the down payment and any closing costs associated with the purchase. Closing costs vary significantly based on the terms of any loan you may obtain, but are generally 2% to 4% of the purchase price. There are also moving expenses to remember.
You should also take into consideration how much your property taxes and insurance will cost in addition to a monthly mortgage payment in determining the right price range.
Your DCMetropolitanHomes agent will help you estimate your purchasing power and costs, but we highly recommend that you talk to your accountant and/or financial advisor to discuss your cash needs and your tax advantages.
An offer to purchase a property is given greater consideration by a seller when the offer is accompanied by a pre-qualification or, better yet, a pre-approval letter from a reputable lender or mortgage broker. This gives assurance to the seller that you will be able to get the proposed financing and will tie up the property needlessly.
Potential lenders will inquire about six critical factors:
1. Income
2. Savings
3. Credit history
4. Debt level
5. Employment history
6. The value of the property you wish to purchase.
DCMetropolitanHomes can recommend several lending institutions from which you may obtain pre-approved financing.
