From Tenant to Homeowner: A Strategic Path to Realizing Your Housing Dreams

Homeownership marks a personal and financial success for many people all around the
world. According to a Fannie Mae survey, about 86 percent of Americans believe one is better off owning a home and 74 percent believe that one should buy a home as soon as one can afford it regardless of marital status or whether or not one has children (Huduser.gov).

Yet, for those starting out as renters, the journey to buying a home can be intimidating, filled with financial hurdles and complex decisions. The transition from renting an apartment to building equity in your property is a big step towards financial independence and personal fulfillment. However, to achieve this, you need more than just the desire to own a home; you need a well-thought-out plan and a commitment to follow through.

This article outlines a strategic approach to make this dream a reality and also provides practical information to help you look at homeownership as a more accessible and achievable goal. Let’s look at 9 easy steps you should review to help with your transition from a tenant to a homeowner.

9 Easy Steps To Homeownership

1. Assess Your Financial Health
   Start with a thorough assessment of your financial situation. This means reviewing your
   income, expenses, debts, and credit score. You need to understand where all your money is going to form a proper budget to allow for more saving opportunity. A good credit score can play a huge role in building your plan, since it can lead to lower mortgage interest rates, saving you
   thousands over the duration of a loan. As a result, you’ll want to use your savings to pay off any debts you might have and pay new payments on time. Avoid taking out any new loans in the meantime. This means no financing of any new major purchases and whatever you do, don’t buy a car! Not sure of your credit score? Not a problem, contact your credit card company or bank or credit union and request your free FICO score and they will provide it to you.
2. Understand the Costs of Homeownership
   Homeownership involves more than just the mortgage payment. Be prepared for
   additional costs, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs.
   Research these expenses in your area to get a realistic view of what you can afford and other local factors that might increase costs of ownership (for example if you live in a flood zone you’ll need a special flood insurance policy). Factor in utility costs and potential homeowners association (HOA) fees to avoid any surprises in your monthly budget. Try and set aside a contingency savings fund for unexpected repairs that might occur.
3. Save for a Down Payment
   A substantial down payment reduces your monthly mortgage payment and can
   eliminate the need for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Aim to save at least 20% of
   your home’s purchase price. Consider opening a dedicated savings account or
   exploring investment options to grow your down payment fund more quickly. Automating
   your savings can help you contribute to your down payment fund without the temptation
   to spend the money elsewhere. Also explore other programs that might allow you to put only 3.5% down such as FHA loans. Veterans can purchase a home with as little as 0 down with a VA loan.
4. Get Pre-approved for a Mortgage
   Getting pre-approved for a mortgage gives you a better idea of what you can afford and
   increases your credibility as a buyer. Shop around for the best mortgage rates and
   terms. Don’t hesitate to negotiate with lenders or ask about programs for first-time
   homebuyers that might offer better rates or assistance. This step also allows you to
   identify and address any potential issues in your financial profile before making an offer
   on a home. Start with a bank you might already have a banking relationship or a local credit union. From there you can explore online with websites that let you compare rates. If you can’t get approved for the amount you need have the lender explain what you’ll need to do to get there and develop a plan.
5. Define Your Housing Needs and Wants
   Make a list of what you need in a home and know that you will not compromise on those
   aspects. Next, make a list of the wants, features that are nice to have, but that are also
   not deal breakers. This will help you focus your search and make better decisions when
   viewing properties. Consider factors like location, size, amenities, and potential for
   appreciation. Knowing your priorities will help you make compromises if needed and
   reduce any remorse that might appear.
6. Work with a Real Estate Agent
   A knowledgeable real estate agent can be invaluable. They understand the local
   market, can help you navigate the buying process, and negotiate on your behalf. Look
   for someone with experience helping first-time homebuyers in your area. An agent’s
   network and resources can also provide access to listings before they hit the market,
   giving you a competitive edge. If you are looking for a home contact LakerRealEstate.com and we’ll link you up with a local realtor who we’ve vetted.
7. Make a Competitive Offer
   When you find a home you love, be prepared to act quickly. In competitive markets,
   homes can sell fast. Your real estate agent will help you make an offer that’s
   competitive but also within your budget. Listening to your agent’s advice on the local
   market and having your documents prepared will show that you are a serious buyer.
8. Prepare for Closing
   The final step in purchasing a home is the closing process, which includes finalizing
   your mortgage, paying closing costs, and signing a lot of paperwork. Be sure to review
   all documents carefully and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
   Understanding each fee and charge in the closing process can help you negotiate and
   potentially lower some of the costs.
9. Plan for Homeownership Responsibilities
   As a homeowner, you’ll be responsible for all aspects of home maintenance and repairs.
   Consider setting aside a budget for unexpected expenses and invest time in learning basic home maintenance skills. Regular maintenance not only keeps your home in good condition but can also prevent more costly repairs in the future.

Going from tenant to homeowner is not just a financial transaction; it’s a transformation that can impact every aspect of your life. It marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where you have the freedom to create a space that reflects your personal tastes and needs. By approaching this journey with a clear plan and a determined spirit, you can navigate the complexities of the housing market and find a place to call your own. Remember, every step you take towards homeownership is a step towards building a financially independent future. With the right preparation and mindset, the keys to your dream home are well within reach.

This article was a guest co-post created by RentCafe.com with edits made by LakerRealEstate.com. Are you looking for your happy place? Be sure to contact RentCafe.com for all your national rental needs and LakerRealEstate.com for all your local Minnesota real estate needs.