Dave Ramsey’s Top 3 Tips for Buying a Home

written by

Jim Mucci

posted on

October 12, 2024

home buying tips overview

When you're ready to buy a home, Dave Ramsey has some smart tips to help you.

First, save up a good amount of money for your down payment. This big payment helps keep your money safe in the long run.

Next, make a budget. This way, you can see how much you can spend and what you need to pay for, like taxes and repairs. This helps you not to spend too much.

Lastly, stay away from adjustable-rate mortgages. They might look good at first because they have lower starting rates, but fixed-rate mortgages are better because your payments stay the same each month.

By following these tips, you can make good choices and build a strong future. You can find more helpful ideas for buying a home too!

Save a Substantial Down Payment

build your savings fund

Saving a big down payment is an important part of buying a home. It can help you a lot in the future. To make saving easier, try some simple ways to save money that work for you.

First, set a clear goal for how much you want to save. You can also set up a special savings account to keep your money safe. This makes it easier to save without thinking too much about it.

Look for a savings account that gives you more money, or try short-term investments to grow your savings faster. You can also save more by spending less on things you don't really need.

Talking about your saving goals with friends or family can help you stay excited and on track. Remember, every little bit you save gets you closer to buying your own home!

Stick to a Budget

Making a budget is really important when you want to buy a home. It's not just about picking a number; it's about knowing how much money you have and how much you spend each month.

Start by looking at your income and all your monthly bills. This helps you see what you can really afford for a house. Don't forget to think about extra costs like taxes, insurance, and repairs. This way, your budget will match your life and what matters to you.

Sticking to a budget while buying a home helps you stay in control. It stops you from spending too much and keeps your money safe.

A budget isn't just a rule; it's a helpful tool. It helps you make smart choices, stay focused, and find a home that you can really afford. This will make you feel happy and proud!

Avoid Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

steer clear of arms

After you decide how much money you can spend on a house, think about what kind of loan you want.

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A fixed-rate mortgage is usually a better choice than an adjustable-rate one. With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate stays the same. This means your monthly payments won't change, making it easier to plan your budget.

Adjustable-rate mortgages might look good at first because they've lower starting rates. But the problem is that your payments can go up later. This can make it hard to pay your bills and cause worry.

When you choose a fixed-rate mortgage, you join many happy homeowners who like to know what they'll pay every month. It feels great to have a steady payment and not have to worry about surprise costs.