So you want to buy a house: Start Today

This is obviously a big decision, buying a house is fairly complex, but it doesn't have to be for you. I'll do everything I can to make the experience enjoyable - it should be fun and exciting.

So where do you start? The true starting point should be talking to a lender to find out what you are "pre-approved" to buy. This is simply a lenders opinion on what you should qualify to buy. Many people end up being pre-approved for more than they would want to spend, so the first question after they tell you what you are pre-approved for should be, "what would my monthly payments be?" This is a fairly simple process and won't be too intrusive. Don't know a mortgage broker? Try your bank or credit union, ask a friend who they used or ask me - I'd be happy to refer you to several.

Keep in mind - there are all kinds of mortgage programs out there with different rates and features. A good lender will work with you to figure out what works best for you, instead of jamming you into their "one size fits all" loan program. And if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Claims about ridiculously low interest rates or zero closing costs will get you in some other way. It generally makes since to get a second opinion on your loan.

From there - we set up a search and start the fun part:looking at houses.

House of the Week getting you set for Halloween, the agent's descriptionion of this house includes the following, "Seller believes this house is haunted." Boo.