Hi CJ! Remember me? I had referred you to my credit repair company for help. How's that going? If you are making progress, then the next step would be to get with a mortgage professional to get approved for financing. Possibly a VA loan. Your mortgage lender should be able to provide you with a pretty close estimate of your closing costs as well as a monthly payment which will be very beneficial for you as far as establishing a budget to shoot for while looking at potential properties for purchase.

Please keep me updated on your progress. I am here to help you when you are ready!

ps- If you like to search for properties on-line I recommend the newly launched consumer MLS site. You are able to see almost the same information that realtors have access to. The website address is: http://www.MyFloridaHomesMLS.com/LorraineBennett. If you use this link, you should be able to contact me directly from the site regarding any homes which may interest you.

Best regards,

Lorraine Bennett, REALTOR
Keller Williams Realty
Direct: (813) 716-3997
E-Mail: Lorraine@MyHappyRealtor.com

You could start by searching out a realtor that works with first time homebuyers (they can help to educate you in the process). I can get you a referral if you would like. Also, it is not too early to talk to a couple of mortgage companies to see who specializes in Rural Housing programs--there are still 100% financing options out there for you to take advantage of. Some mortgage companies are better at assisting with VA and FHA programs than others--all are not the same. Shop for the best products for your individual needs. I know Countrywide has gotten a lot of negative news lately, but I have an officer here who does excellent work!! I have also had good luck with Suntrust. It is great if you get pre qualified before starting your search so you have more information to share with your realtor. Good luck, and happy house hunting--it is a GREAT time to buy a house!! Prices are down, and interest rates are still pretty low!! Contact me if I can be more help!

CJ

Your first step would be to get pre approved through a lender, credit union or your bank. This will allow you to narrow down your search by knowing exactly how much you are comfortable spending. Once you are pre approved you should contact a Real Estate Agent in the area in which you are wanting to purchase and let them do the leg work for you. The agent will be able to set you up on a property watch. Property watch allows you to search through all the homes in the Multiple Listing Service and view pictures, virtual tours as well as read the details of the home. It helps to narrow down the homes you may want to view. There are so many great places on the market and prices are at rock bottom, so you are sure to get a great deal.

Several steps you need to complete. If you are leasing a property when is the expiration of your current lease if you are more than 90 days then hold off trying to be approved for a loan. If less than 90 days contact a local mortgage broker who does potential VA loans, a realtor wont work with clients unless they are approved by a lender. These notices from lender to a realtor instructs an agent what you can qualify to purchase. In the meantime know exactly what type of property you want, # of bedrooms, baths, and etc. More detail info. you provide to an agent more specific the search can be narrowed to what you like to purchase not waste your time previewing homes that dont match your qualifications.

Contact your local bank about a VA loan...or GOOGLE VA approved lender. They will help you determine your price range and pre-qualify you. Another great resource is USAA.com. They do VA loans and can refer you to an approved realtor. Good luck!