Are you interested in learning more about homeownership costs. There are many things you need to know. Mortgage calculators are great, but it is important to do some research to understand your options for financing. Before you determine exactly how much you can afford to spend for a new home Myrtle Beach, here are some things to keep in mind.

Tips For Building A New Home Myrtle Beach 

Understanding the 30 Percent Rule

The 30 percent rule is a great way to estimate how much you could afford for your new home construction. This means that your monthly mortgage payment should not exceed 30 percent of your income before taxes. This rule is applicable to both renting and homeownership, so it might be familiar even if you aren’t a potential new homeowner.

This 30 percent rule is not a good guideline. Your circumstances might be different. While it’s a great place to start, there are other things that you might want. Your mortgage may not cover the entire amount you pay each month.

Other fees could include homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, HOA fees and property taxes. All of these fees can be included in your 30 percent. You might also consider spending less than 30% if you are concerned about saving for retirement and other important life moments.

The cost of homeownership

These costs are not new, but it is worth looking into more when building a custom home. Before you decide how much of your income to invest in a new home, consider the homeownership costs that you may have to pay on top.

Homeowner’s Association Fees

HOA fees are not mandatory for all homes, but they will be required for many. These fees pay for lawn care, snow removal, community facilities, and the regular maintenance of the property. Keep in mind that HOA fees are not likely to decrease, but they will increase over time.

These fees will need to be included in your homeownership costs if you have a mortgage for a home with HOA fees. Are you still unsure what an HOA is? Or if it makes financial sense to purchase a home with an HOA fee? You can find out more at What is an HOA? To learn more about HOAs, check out our What is an HOA? post.

Mortgage insurance

Mortgage insurance will be required for any FHA loan, standard loan or loan with less than 20% down. Mortgage insurance is required for FHA loans. On average, mortgage insurance premiums are between 0.5 and 5 percent of the loan amount.

If you take a $150,000 loan with a 1 percent annual premium, your monthly mortgage insurance cost would be $1,500 ($125) per year. Although it may seem like a lot, mortgage coverage is worthwhile if you don’t have the funds to make a 20% down payment.

Home maintenance

Are you thinking of buying a fixer-upper home? Did you know that homeowners spend on average $7,500 annually on home improvements? You might consider estimating the cost of remodeling before you buy a house. For example, a small bathroom remodel could cost less than $4,000, but most homeowners spend between $6,000 to $16,000.

Remodeling a kitchen can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $35,000. You may find that you are able to afford a house if you include these additional costs. You may decide that the potential higher upfront cost is worthwhile.

There are many factors that can impact your ability to afford a home, such as your credit score. This could have an impact on your home mortgage rates or current debts.

The 30 percent rule is a great place to start. However, there are other financial steps you can take in order to afford your new home construction. Make sure you fully evaluate your financial situation before you make any decisions.

Call Dawol Homes if you are looking for a custom home builder who can help you build your dream home. 

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Dawol Homes
9404 Hwy 17 Bypass,
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 294-2859

Dawol Homes Sales Office
3100 Dick Pond Rd # E
Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
843-294-2859

We build homes in: Cypress River Plantation, Waterway Palms, Waterbridge, Murrells Inlet, Collins Creek, Bellwood Landing, Carolina Forest, Plantation Lakes, North Myrtle Beach, Socastee, Surfside Beach, Pawleys Island, Litchfield Plantation