The Mortgage Process

This information will help you understand
the mortgage process better.

1. Should you buy or rent?

   Is home ownership right for you? Ask yourself these questions… Do you enjoy moving often? Do you prefer using your savings for such things as vacations, retirement or starting your own business? Do you enjoy not having to worry about regular maintenance and repairs? If you answered yes to any of these questions, read more...

2. Are you financially ready?

   So, you've decided that homeownership is right for you. Now you need to determine if you are financially ready to buy a house. In this step, you will find a number of simple calculations that you can do to evaluate your current financial situation, read more...

3. How much will it really cost?

   Once you have figured out the home price range you can afford and the type of mortgage you qualify for, you will need to calculate all of the associated costs of the transaction to make sure you are financially ready. read more...

4. What should you buy?

   Before you start searching for a home, you need to think about your needs both now and in the future. Here are some things to consider: read more...

5. What professionals should you call on?

   Because purchasing a home is probably the biggest investment you will ever make, you'll definitely want a team of professionals working with you throughout the process. read more...

6. How can you find the right home?

   Once you figure out what you can afford to pay for a house and obtain a pre-qualified mortgage, you are ready to start your search. There are a variety of sources you can use to find the home that is right for you: read more...

7. Ready to buy?

   Once you have found the home you would like to purchase, you need to present the vendor with an Offer to Purchase or an Agreement of Purchase and Sale. As your home is probably your biggest investment, it would be wise to work with your real estate agent and/or a lawyer/notary in preparing your offer. read more...

8. The final steps

   Closing day is the day when you finally achieve your goal — you take legal possession and finally get to call your new house your own. You are sure to feel great relief and satisfaction but remember that the home buying process isn't over just yet. read more...

9. Is there more to home buying?

   Finding and purchasing your home can be an exciting and overwhelming process. You may be relieved once you finally take possession of your new house but be aware that the financial responsibilities of homeownership are just beginning. read more...

10. Tips on home repair and maintenance

    Once you've finally settled in, you may start to view your home with a more objective eye. Perhaps there are things you'd like to change — the kitchen cabinets or the flooring, for instance. Perhaps there are things that require repair, such as the plumbing or the windows. read more...