Buying A Home In Santa Barbara
Buying a Home
A changing real estate market presents exciting opportunities for you as a buyer to purchase property. After using our online resources to determine the property you desire our real estate professionals are available to assist you with expert knowledge to refine your search criteria and protect your interests.
1. Figure out how much you can afford
What you can afford depends on your income, credit rating, current monthly expenses, downpayment and the interest rate.
2. Know your rights
3. Shop for a loan as a Buyer
4. Learn about home buying programs
- Homebuying programs in your state
- Let FHA help you (FHA loan programs offer lower downpayments and are a good option for first-time homebuyers!)
- HUD’s special homebuying programs
- Good Neighbor Next Door(formerly known as Teacher/Officer/Firefighter Next Door)
- Homeownership for public housing residents
- Indian Home Loan Guarantee Program(Section 184)
5. Shop for a home
- Wish list – what features do you want?
- Home-shopping checklist? take this list with you when comparing homes
- Homes for sale(including HUD homes)
- “Fixer-Uppers – home purchase and repair programs
- Manufactured (mobile) homes
- Build a home
- Shopping for a Home FAQ’s
6. Make an offer
7. Get a home inspection
9. Sign papers
You’re finally ready to go to “settlement” or “closing.” Be sure to read everything before you sign!