Are you planning on having children? Will you be taking care of elderly parents? Do you have enough for a down payment? How is your credit? All of these things need to be considered before you make the giant leap into home ownership.

Children

If you are planning on having children, you will need to consider the schools in the area. Let's say that you have decided to purchase a home out in the country where the future children can run and play. That is a great idea, until you realize that the closest elementary school is 36 miles away. This will either put your child on a bus for 2 hours or you will have to drive your child to school in rush hour traffic out of your way to work. Maybe you are okay with that, but it is something to be considered when looking for a home.

Elderly Parents

In this case you will want to be near some form of health care facility. Whether it is a hospital or an emergency clinic you will want to have someone close by that can help in case of an emergency. Also, consider that living next to a hospital will also bring sirens. Noise control can be an issue.

Credit

A home buyers credit score can be an important factor in qualifying for a loan. You can find out what your credit score is with the three big bureaus by going to www.annualcreditreport.com. Scan your report for any errors, unpaid accounts and collection accounts. Start to repair your credit nearly six months before you apply for a mortgage. This process can take some time, and money.

Down Payment

Most financing companies require 20% of the purchase price for a down payment. Therefore, if you are looking at a $100,000.00 home the down payment will be $20,000.00. There are a variety of loan programs that may help with this, so don't give up hope, you can still be a homeowner.

Many potential home buyers get caught up between low housing inventory, high demand for housing and tight credit, but with a little planning and some knowledge these things can be overcome and you can be in your new home in no time!