Hello,

we are planning on buying a house by the end of the year. We are currently still stationed in germany and my husband will go to the states this summer and try to buy a house for us.
This is going to be our first! We have always lived for rent and I am sooo scared that we'll make a big mistake during the whole buying process.
Does anybody have any good advice or know good website kind of like "homebuying for dummies"? I am trying to learn as much as I can right now...

Thanks!

Hi - Hey, I've been to Heidelberg - it's fabulous! Spent all day at the castle, very very cool!

First off, figure out where you want to live. start scoping around at realtor.com for prices, check out the school systems, and for SURE get a licensed inspector to check the home out BEFORE you sign any contracts (you can make that a contingency on your offer). There really is quite a bit of research you should do first, so start surfing the web for assistance too.

Sorry, this was really quick, I'm headed off to work. HTH a little bit to get you started!

If at all possible save up enough money for a down payment so you don't have to pay PMI. That way more of your mortgage payment will actually go towards paying off the house.

Check out the school system and your neighbors. Nothing worse than having horrible neighbors.

My biggest piece of advice is a LICENSED house inspector. The first house we put a bid on underneath was a HUGE money pit, so glad we saved oursleves from that by hiring a good inspector!

Thanks! It's always good to hear other peoples experiences.