Steps: To Buying A House

Check your credit score and review your report for errors at AnnualCreditReport.com several months in advance. A higher score secures better loan terms.

Plan for an additional 2% to 5% of the loan amount. steps to buying a house

Use the 28/36 rule —housing costs should ideally not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Save for Upfront Costs: Down Payment: Typically 3% to 20% of the purchase price. Check your credit score and review your report

Set aside 1% to 3% of the home's value annually for repairs. Phase 2: Mortgage Pre-Approval steps to buying a house