Organization is the key to finding the home you want while spending a minimal amount of time and energy.

Determine the price range on a house that will best suit your financial needs. Do this before you go house-hunting. I can refer you to a loan officer who will help you determine the amount you can afford to put on a down payment, along with a reasonable monthly payment program.

Make a list of everything you want in a home. Is a master suite important? How many bathrooms? What about closet space? Do you need a yard for the kids and pets to play in? How about a fireplace or a bay window? Do you prefer a rambler or multiple story house? Are schools or access to transportation important?

Separate the essentials from the items you don't necessarily need, and put them on the "A" list. Prioritize the remaining items into a second and third list in order of importance. We'll then go over the list so that we're both very clear about what you want and need in your home.

Keep good notes as we look at homes. After awhile, it becomes difficult to remember which features belong to which home. I will provide you with a form and rating system to help you compare homes. Some buyers make audio tapes as they go along.

When selecting a home, look beyond cosmetics. Make sure the home is in good physical condition and that you understand the cost of repairs. For more information on how to assess the home's condition, contact us.

Look at additional homes, even if you love the first one you see. Many times, it takes looking at several homes before you find the one that is perfect for you.

As your Tomlinson Black agent, I'll check with you regularly, even if you haven't yet found a house that suits your needs. Keeping in contact with you allows us to establish a good rapport, and helps me learn how to effectively assist you. I'll continue to be on the lookout for homes that meet your specific needs.

Before you start looking at homes, it's a good idea to determine an affordable target price range. A mortgage lender will want to make sure you can handle the down payment, plus a monthly mortgage payment made up of principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI).

Interest rates and your personal finances will influence the type of house you can afford. For a quick estimate of a monthly mortgage payment for which you may qualify, use the following worksheet. You can also find a mortgage calculator for any home posted on the Tomlinson Black website at www.tomlinsonblack.com. But remember, it's always good to talk to a lender before you start shopping for a home. I can refer you to lenders suited to your specific financial needs.

Annual gross income (before taxes): $

Divide by number of months divide by 12

Monthly gross income: =$

Many lenders will not allow you to spend more than 28% of your monthly gross income on housing expenses: x .28

Maximum monthly housing

Expense allowed: = $

Many lenders will not allow you to spend more than 36% of your monthly gross income on long-term debt:

Total monthly debt, not including housing: $

(This amount includes auto loans, credit cards, child support, etc.)

Add housing allowance from above: +

Total: = $

(This total should be no more than 36% of your monthly gross income.)

In addition to the mortgage you borrow from a lender, you will normally be required to make a cash down payment as a percentage of the purchase price that you pay for the home. Conventional loan down payments range anywhere from 5 to 20 percent, depending on the requirements of your lender. For those who qualify, there are also specialized loan programs that allow for as little as 3 percent down. A higher down payment often allows the lender to be more flexible with a loan package, including interest rates and closing costs. In addition to the down payment, you will need to have enough cash available to pay closing costs.