April 10, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) — If you’re thinking about buying a new home but are unsure where to start, the solution could be as close as your personal computer. If you have Internet access, a wealth of information to help you in the home buying process is right at your fingertips.
Of course, the HBAA website is a great place to turn for information on buying a new home, tips on selecting and working with a home builder, and much more. You’ll also find news and information about events, issues and legislation that affect homeownership and housing affordability.
The HBAA website includes links to your local Home Builders Association. Your local HBA can provide you with a list of builders and contractors in your area who can assist you with finding the home of your dreams.
Another excellent source of home buying information is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Web site, www.hud.gov. Here you can find consumer information on buying, owning, renting, fair housing and much more, including FHA low downpayment mortgage insurance for home buyers.
Fannie Mae operates www.homepath.com, where you can find several mortgage calculators to help you determine what your monthly payments might be or how much you can afford to spend for a home. And if you’re not sure that homeownership is the right course for you to pursue, you will find information that can help you evaluate your options.
Freddie Mac’s site, www.freddiemac.com, also includes useful mortgage calculators, information about home buying and a consumer home inspection kit that can be printed from the site.
Numerous U.S. government publications on housing subjects ranging from different types of mortgages, to selling a home, residential energy efficiency and the home buying process are available at www.pueblo.gsa.gov.
One of the most important aspects of the home buying process is financing, and the nation’s mortgage providers have taken full advantage of the Internet in their marketing efforts. Through a simple search, you can find numerous sites where rates are posted daily so you can compare terms and select the mortgage that best suits your needs. On some of these sites, it is possible to apply for a mortgage online.
These are just a few of the many online resources available to you as you begin your search for a new home. With a little time and the assistance of any of the popular Web search engines, you can find a wealth of information to make the process easier and more comprehensive. Happy house hunting!
