Today, there are more financing options for would-be buyers than ever before. But the bottom line is the same as always - - how good is your credit, how much do you have for a down payment and what is your income-to-debt ratio. With today's low interest rates, many people are finding that for nearly the same amount they are paying to rent, they could be living in their own home. Of course, the challenge for many is finding the money for a down payment. At this stage of your search, it's probably a good idea to keep it simple. The mortgage calculator on the HouseHunt.com site will help you get an idea of how much your monthly payment would be at a variety of interest rates and terms. But be conservative, although everyone is looking to get as much house as they can for their dollar, there are many additional costs involved in the process…not to mention the cost of new items for your new home.

Before you actually search for your home, it is a good idea to obtain preapproval from your lender. One of the best ways to find a local lender is with the help of a highly experienced and professional HouseHunt Real Estate agent. Your agent can assist you in obtaining the best interest rate and loan terms for your loan with a local lender which has a proven track record for closing your loan.