Joe Peffer

You can both be on the deed but I would agree that if possible, try to leave yourself out of the mortgage process. If you find you need your income to qualify for the type of house you want, it's still possible something could be worked out by your lender.
When is it appropriate to contact a real estate agent? Whenever you like. I understand what you're saying--you'd like to test drive a couple homes to see if they're what you want in a home. Chances are if you find something you'd consider now, you'll find others when the time comes. Realtors get that and I think most would simply ask for you to be upfront and honest about your intentions. Agents do have a cost associated with their time and as long as you use the same agent next year, you'll find most willing to go to the mat for you.
In the intervening months, you'll become an expert of the market and when the time comes to buy you'll know exactly what you want. You'll not find a lot to love in Gahanna or Columbus proper but Gahanna Schools for under $150,000 but it can be done along the Stygler to I270 strip.

If you looked today, you'll see 30+ options ranging from ranches in Gramercy Park, Bi-levels in Royal Manner or Virginia Terrace, and some short sale 2 stories in Stonehill (technically Blacklick but GJ Schools).

Best of luck to you both. - Tue Oct 20 2009, 11:48