Extra Costs of Owning a Home
If you're making the transition from renter to home owner, there are some extra expenses you'll need to be aware of. Property taxes, hazard insurance, and mortgage insurance are additional expenses that you can expect to pay and need to plan for.
MSN Money Central estimates the state property tax rate for Pennsylvania at approximately 1.47% of assessed property value, but for specific information, please contact the county tax collector's office for the county where your property is located.
Federal Housing Agencies in Pennsylvania
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides home loans through its agency, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The Veterans Administration offers a home loan program for military veterans. Links to both agencies are included below.
Finding a Mortgage Lender and Closing Agent
Shopping lenders for rates and products is essential for getting a great deal, but you also want to make sure any potential lender is experienced and ethical. The mortgage closing process and its cost can add to the challenge of financing a home, and the time it takes between making an offer and getting the keys to your new place. Although real estate professionals and lenders may recommend a closing agent, you can also select an independent closing agent. PHFA provides a list of approved closing agents; there's a link included below.
Refinance Information and Help
Contacting your current mortgage lender about refinancing options can help you get favorable rates and potentially streamline the refinance process. Using mortgage calculator tools can help you decide which refinance options match your current financial situation. If you currently owe more than your home is worth and can't get approved for traditional refinancing, PHFA offers a refinancing program that may be able to help.
In order to gain the most benefit from these resources, it's important to understand in advance which home loan options suit your current needs and circumstances.
Also, please make use of our
loan calculators which include a
refinance calculator, a
mortgage loan rate comparison calculator, and an
amortization calculator & amortization chart. There's also a
mortgage calculator to tell you your monthly payments, and an
affordability calculator that looks as how much you can spend, and your expenses to show you how much home you can afford.
Home Loan Resources in Pennsylvania
Federal Agencies
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Information and Services:
Banking and Real Estate Oversight
Money Management Help