No money down is a term heard often in Real Estate today.  What does no money down really mean?  I have had first time home buyers come in to “shop”.  They are pre-qualified with a bank for a “no money down loan”.  Now I know the banks are informing the client about the loan products they will be using.  There are certain products that require “no money down”.   But “no money down” does not mean “no money at all”.

Buyers shopping for new homes do need to have some money to buy a home.  First of all, you will need a “good faith deposit”.  This usually consists of cash deposit made when putting forth an offer on a home.  Most of the time, and especially when buying a foreclosed home, the deposit required is a minimum $1,000.00.  Next, you will need money for inspections.  Typically, inspections run $350 and up.  An average home inspection is more near the $400 mark.  Inspectors expect to be paid at the time of inspection.  What about lender expenses.  Are you expected to pay for the appraisal?  Will the lender be rolling expenses into the mortgage?  When first time home buyers are shopping, these numbers can be overwhelming.  If you expect to buy a home with “no cash” this can be a shocker!

Buyer’s beware, no money down does not mean no cash required.  There is a difference and you should be prepared.  It’s great to get pre-approved with a lender.  This gives you an edge to know what your buying power is.  Next look at your household budget and decide how that fits in your overall plan.  Next, establish a cash fund to use for expenses during the purchase process.   Planning will elimate all the surprises for new home buyers.

For more help with purchasing a home, or answers to any real estate questions, please get in touch with me.