Table of Contents

Introduction - The Current Foreclosure Crisis

Preventing Foreclosure Before You Buy - Preparing for Homeownership

How to make your home foreclosure-proof before you buy

(1) Your own financial contribution towards the purchase

(2) Having enough cash in savings as a reserve

(3) When considering a purchase, watch your DTI ratio

(4) Knowing how to negotiate for the best deal

(5) Checking accuracy of your credit files before applying for loan

(6) Avoiding major changes when considering mortgage financing

Exploring Options for Your New Home with a Buyer’s Agent

Homes for sale by owners

Homes in pre-foreclosure available for sale by owner

Foreclosed homes available as REOs from HUD, VA, and others

Making offers

Assembling Your Team of Advisors and Consultants

Understanding the Loan Approval Process

Choosing the Right Loan Product

Fixed-rate Mortgage

Government insured and guaranty programs

Conventional Loans

Adjustable-rate (ARM) mortgages

Selecting the best loan product for foreclosure-proof financing

The Loan Closing Process

Meeting Your Obligation to Your Mortgage Lender

A Final Word

Personal Financial Worksheets

Calculating your debt-to-income ratios

Housing cost ratio

Total debt ratio

Calculating Loan to Value (LTV) ratio

Calculating Closing Costs Cash Requirements

Calculating Total Cash Required for Transaction

Net Worth Worksheet

Budget Worksheet

Resources

Annual Credit Report Request Form

About the Author

Notes


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