The Ten Commandments of Buying a Home in Pittsburgh

Before you pick out paint colors or start imagining where the couch will go, there are a few “holy rules” every Pittsburgh homebuyer should follow. Break one, and you might just delay—or derail—your dream home purchase. So, take these Ten Commandments to heart, keep them close, and remember… if temptation gets the best of you, I’m only a phone call away!

  1. Thou shalt not change jobs, become self-employed, or quit your job. (Your lender likes stability. Let’s keep them smiling.)
  2. Thou shalt not buy a car, truck, or van (…or you may be living in it!)
  3. Thou shalt not use charge cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind. (No “just one more” Target runs.)
  4. Thou shalt not spend money you have set aside for closing. (Yes, even if those Steelers season tickets are calling your name.)
  5. Thou shalt not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application. (They will find out. They always do.)
  6. Thou shalt not buy furniture. (You can sit on the floor for a few weeks. It builds character.)
  7. Thou shalt not originate any inquiries into your credit. (No store credit cards, no matter how much you want that “extra 10% off.”)
  8. Thou shalt not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer. (Mysterious money raises eyebrows.)
  9. Thou shalt not change bank accounts. (Your lender doesn’t like playing “follow the money.”)
  10. Thou shalt not co-sign a loan for anyone. (Not for your cousin. Not for your best friend. Not even for your mama.)

If you have any questions—or recently broke a “commandment”—call me before it becomes a bigger problem!