We know that buying a home can seem like a difficult task, but it can be more manageable if you have the tools you need. See our top resources to help you through the home buying process below:
To get an idea of how much money you qualify to receive from the National Housing Trust (NHT), try their free Mortgage Calculator here. Though the figure is estimated, it can still help you to manage your budget prior to applying for a loan.
First, you need to get pre-qualified for a home loan from the NHT or through another financial institution like a bank, building society or credit union. In most cases, getting a pre-qualification letter is free and hassle-free.
See our tips on what you’ll need to get this done here.
Now that you know how much you can spend, it’s time to find properties to choose from. Hiring a realtor is a great option, since they manage the searching, vetting and negotiations for you, at no charge. To find a reputable realtor, feel free to check the Realtors Association Of Jamaica website.
After selecting the home you wish to purchase, comes the legal side of home buying. Whether you’re buying a new or old home, you will need an attorney to help you through the process. To find local attorneys who specialise in conveyancing, visit the Bar Association of Jamaica’s website.
If you’re at this point, then you’re getting closer to your goal of homeownership. After getting pre-qualified for a loan, selecting your home and making your deposit, now’s the time to get your mortgage approved by the lending institution you choose.
When using the NHT, you can receive the Open Market Loan for non-homeowners, which allows you to borrow as a single applicant or you may co-apply with one other qualified NHT contributor to access a higher loan limit to purchase the home. However, if you need to borrow more money you may seek additional funds from another lending institution that is willing to enter into a Joint Finance Mortgage with the NHT. Here is the approved list of NHT’s partner institutions:
Also, prepare yourself for hidden costs and possible cost increases due to inflation. To be on the safe side, have at least 5-10% of the mortgage saved for emergency fees and expenses.
Q: How do I buy a home with my partner?
Find out how to buy your first home with your partner here.
Q: This is my second home, is the process the same?
Find out how to buy your second home here.
Q: Do I need home insurance with my mortgage?
Here are three key things you should know about the value of home insurance as a mortgagee.
Q: How do I know I’m ready to buy a home?
Here are four questions to help you assess if you’re ready to buy a home.
Q: Should I buy a small house?
Find out the many benefits of buying a smaller home here.
Download your free First-Time Homeowner E-book here to get all the tools and tips you’ll need to make it home.
If you’re looking for a more guided approach, feel free to sign up for our 365-Day Home-In-A-Year Challenge where a member of our team takes you through the process over a period of 12 months.
Are you ready to make homeownership a reality? Follow these steps and it will be more than a dream in no time!