by Erin LaBuda

We've all heard the news...The market does not look good.  However, the economic downturn is providing a great opportunity for a large group of us -- first-time homebuyers.

Interest rates are still low.  With fair-to-good credit, the FHA insured loans are accessible and require little down-payment.  Foreclosures and short sales in Central Ohio are available and the banks are proving to be realistic (and sometimes even generous) on the price for which they are willing to sell a home to a buyer.  AND, if you are a first-time home-buyer, or currently don't own a home, you are not faced with the challenge of having to sell your property in order to take advantage of all of the opportunities that are currently being presented.

So what should you do if you are interested in getting a "good deal" and owning your own home?  Call a real estate professional whom you trust.  He or she will connect you with the lenders who can best help you assess your purchasing power. The lenders can also suggest a program that will keep your payments at or below your comfort level and will minimize the amount of money you will have to bring to the closing table.

Next, talk to your Realtor about what you are looking for in a home.  This will help the agent uncover the opportunities that will best suit your needs while adhering to your budget AND getting you the best deal.

The news would have us believe that the market is bleak and unstable, however is you dig a little deeper and look at the market from all angles, there are opportunities.  In fact, there is a great opportunity ---to own your own home below market value with little money and down and at a great interest rate which, in turn, will build equity and help you build wealth.

For more detailed information on first-time home-buyer opportunities, please call me, Erin LaBuda, Accredited Buyers Representative, at 614-431-9049.