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Buying A Home Right Out Of College? Here Is The Way To Do It

Graduating from college is a significant milestone that often signifies the commencement of a new chapter: diving into the workforce, relocating to a new city, or perhaps contemplating the idea of purchasing your very first home. While the notion of buying a home right after college might seem daunting given student loans and limited work experience, it’s not an unattainable dream.

Indeed, with proper financial planning and a keen understanding of the real estate market, recent graduates can successfully make the transition from dorm rooms to homeownership. If you’re intrigued by the prospect and eager to find out how to turn this seemingly ambitious goal into a reality, keep reading. We’re about to reveal a step-by-step guide tailored for fresh graduates like you.

Related Link: How to Get a Veteran Home Loan

Determine Affordability

Navigating post-college financial commitments can be tricky, and adding a mortgage to the mix demands prudence. Begin by mapping out your current and projected financial landscape, accounting for every detail from regular expenses like groceries to significant outgoings such as student loans. It’s also crucial to factor in potential changes, like salary increments or unplanned expenses, to ensure that your budget remains adaptable. Conversations with financial advisors or using online mortgage calculators can further enhance your affordability insights.

To create a realistic housing budget, aim for your home-related expenses (encompassing mortgage, utilities, and property taxes) to be around one-third of your monthly outgoings. Remember to also account for one-time expenses like closing costs. Consider future maintenance and potential homeowners association fees as well. With a clear financial snapshot, you can decide if the immediate jump to homeownership is feasible or if a temporary phase of renting or staying with family might be more prudent. Always prioritize long-term financial stability over short-term desires.

Save for a Down Payment

Once you’ve got a budget in hand, focus on the all-important down payment. Typically, 20% of the property’s value is the gold standard for a down payment. Such an amount ensures you have substantial equity from the get-go, leading to more favorable mortgage terms. Yet, options like FHA loans could reduce this requirement to as low as 3.5%. Moreover, some regions or programs might offer first-time homebuyer incentives that can assist in meeting this demand.

For context, a home worth the U.S. median of $250,000 would have a 20% down payment of $50,000. To systematically save, consider allocating a fixed portion of every paycheck into a dedicated savings account. Explore options like high-yield savings accounts or consider automated transfers to ensure consistency. Using online savings accounts, distinct from your regular checking accounts, can curtail impulsive spending and help grow your funds over time through accrued interest.

Need more information on refinancing a home? Get in touch with us today!

Manage Your Credit Score

A strong credit score is your ticket to not only securing a loan but also accessing competitive interest rates. Begin by ascertaining your current score using the annual free check provided by major credit bureaus. While anything above 700 is generally deemed positive, there’s always room for improvement. It’s worth noting that even a slight increase in your score can lead to significantly better interest rates, saving you thousands over the life of a loan.

Having clarity on your credit score also positions you effectively when seeking pre-approval for home loans or engaging with real estate agents. This knowledge gives you an edge during negotiations and home selection. If your credit health requires a booster, imbibe credit-friendly habits like prompt debt payments, reduced credit card reliance, and consistently honoring all financial commitments. Time is your ally, and even small, consistent improvements can transform your credit profile over months.

Related Link: First Home Buying Guide: Tips and Tricks

Meet with Real Estate Agents

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With finances in order and a grasp on your credit health, it’s time to embrace the exciting phase: house hunting! Engage with reputable real estate agents who can provide insights tailored to your unique needs and budget. Their expertise and local market knowledge can be invaluable, often revealing opportunities or properties you might overlook on your own. Remember, while your first home symbolizes a significant milestone, it doesn’t have to be your forever home. Strive for a balance between affordability and aligning with your immediate desires. Every property has its pros and cons, so ensure your selection resonates with both your heart and your budget.

Why Choose Mares Mortgage: Your Partner in Home Buying Success

Selecting the right mortgage company plays an integral role in ensuring your home-buying experience is smooth, secure, and tailored to your needs. In a market where trust and transparency are paramount, Mares Mortgage emerges as a beacon of reliability. Their ethos, deeply rooted in honesty, integrity, and exemplary customer service, sets them apart. These aren’t just buzzwords for them; it’s a tradition, upheld and enriched since Cutberto Hernandez began his journey in 1993.

With Mares Mortgage, clients aren’t just numbers. They’re treated as valued individuals, deserving of specialized attention. This family-owned and operated business provides more than just standard financing options. They endeavor to add value that extends well beyond the current transaction, aiming to benefit clients in the long term.

With over two decades of experience, Mares Mortgage stands as a rock-solid institution, having carved its niche in the industry, not merely through its extensive loan offerings – encompassing conventional, commercial, and government-backed options – but also through its commitment to responsible lending practices. Their association with the National Association of Mortgage Professionals underscores their ethical prowess. Furthermore, their innovative approach, using tools like Loansifter, ensures clients receive the most competitive rates, checking offerings from over 175 banks nationwide.

In the vast sea of mortgage providers, Mares Mortgage sails as the captain – guiding, supporting, and ensuring that your dream of homeownership is realized with trust, transparency, and a personalized touch.

Want to find a mortgage company you can trust? Learn about us here

From College Graduate to Homeowner

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Transitioning from college to the real world is a significant step, and buying a home right after can feel like a marathon leap. But as we’ve illustrated, with the right financial planning, a clear understanding of your affordability, diligent saving habits, proactive credit management, and the help of experienced real estate agents, this dream is far from out of reach.

For those eager to make this transition smoother and more insightful, don’t embark on this journey alone. Mares Mortgages specializes in guiding recent graduates through the homeownership process. With their expert advice and tailored solutions, you can navigate the complexities of buying a home with confidence. Dive into your next adventure; let Mares Mortgages be your compass.

Related Link: Reasons to Refinance Your Home

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