I think having contingency plans are crucial and if you don’t, you’re just setting yourself up for headache if something happens. As for going the straight writing route, I need some human interaction and there simply isn’t enough if I were to go the writing route…

When we started looking for a house, we took a home buyers class. These are offered thru many organization. WE did our with Rural Opportunities, but found out that the local Catholic charities offers a class for free. Many towns have continuing education classes that offer these as well.

These classes take you through all the steps, including how to budget, what is included in the inspection (you are getting an inspection right?), the mortgage process, how to choose a Realtor, how to find first time homeowner grants, everything. WE know what to expect during the whole process.

Some of these classes are free or very low cost. The Rural Opportunities cost was actually rolled into the closing cost. The class was several weeks, but it prepared us.

I know this may not be a good spot for this thread, but it does need to be pointed out to everybody planning on buying a house. You can never be too prepared!

I’m glad you liked the article. You’ve got a good thing going over here as well. I think I’ll add you to my blog list.

-limeade