10 Tips Every New Home Buyer Should Know

The biggest investment many of us will make is buying a house, and mistakes can be costly. To help weed through the home-buying jungle, we've gathered the knowledge and strategies every home buyer should know before beginning the hunt.

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Hide CaptionShow CaptionRead all of the fine print before getting a mortgage.

- After the Sale
- Added Taxes

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By Stephanie Welch Alexander

A loan rate can look great in an advertisement, but once bankers have drawn you in to the branch office, what will you really pay? Points, PMI (private mortgage insurance) and closing costs can drive your mortgage cost up.

Some programs allow buyers to have smaller down payments — but how long are you required to stay in the home without penalty — and how much more will you pay each month?

Be sure to read all the clauses and fine print before getting a mortgage. And don't be afraid to shop around for the best rate.