Yearning for a brand, spanking new home but don't have any cash for a down payment? That may no longer be a problem under a new "strategic partnership" announced this week between the Nehemiah Corp. and the Homebuilders Financial Network. Under the terms of the alliance, Nehemiah will offer down payment assistance to cash-starved buyers who have their eyes on houses built by any of the 20 builders throughout the nation whose in-house mortgage operations are run by HFN

Escrow has closed, the title is in your name, and the hassle of moving is finally over. While you may feel like the home buying process is behind you, it's not. Now comes the onslaught of mailers, solicitations, and tempting offers geared toward new homeowners, who are typically trying to rebuild their finances

If you're in the process of searching for or buying a home, you've probably been advised to have a home inspection. But there's another test that you'll want to make sure your potential home -- or, if you don't have plans to move, your current home -- passes - the radon test

Armed with your down payment and your pre-approved mortgage loan, the next step is finding the house that will best meet your family's needs. With realistic expectations, patience, and plenty of research, you'll be well on your way. Once you narrow it down to the neighborhoods you like, you'll want to determine the maximum house price you can afford. Even though you're pre-approved for a set loan amount, it doesn't mean you can afford it. You'll want to factor in other expenses, including retirement and college savings, vacations, and home maintenance and repairs, when you calculate how much you can afford for a monthly payment. And don't forget to budget for homeowners insurance and property taxes

Each year more than 40 percent of all homes are purchased by first-time buyers according to the National Association of Realtors, a percentage which should offer some comfort if you're about to buy a first home. Others have done it, others are doing it, and you can too. But like most things, there are ways to make the process easier. Here in capsule form are 10 baseline strategies to make that first purchase a good experience

Q: I am currently in escrow on a house. We had the inspection done yesterday. There are a few major concerns of which we were unaware. The largest is a faulty shower pan, which has been leaking for several years and has caused substantial damage to the sub-flooring. What is the best way to handle this? Allow the seller to choose the method and company to repair this? Or should I have a professional estimate the costs, then ask for cash from the seller so as to allow myself control over the work? I would like to know the best way to negotiate an allowance (or discount off sales price) for these items. I don't expect the house to be restored to perfect condition for me, but I've heard of parties negotiating on such items

When you're in the market for a home, it seems as if there are millions of questions to ask -- and no doubt plenty more. As buyers we become so wrapped up in the physical aspects of the house -- the rooms, amenities, and structure -- that we give less attention to quiet issues which may strongly impact our ability to enjoy a home

Q: I have been a renter for several years, and have decided that it is time to buy. I am looking for a condominium apartment, and have located several that interest me. I am a "babe in the woods " when it comes to real estate. What steps should I take to make sure that I am getting a good deal and that no one is taking advantage of me?

If you've been waiting to get through the holidays and closer to warmer weather before beginning the search to buy your first home, you're not alone. The traditionally busy spring real estate season is just around the corner, meaning heavy competition looms. But there are things you can do as a potential homebuyer to get a head start. The number of home sales in 2002 shattered records with 5.56 million existing and 979,000 new homes sold throughout the country, according to National Association of Realtors chief economist David Lereah. Home sales this year are expected to dip slightly, but remain robust

If you're getting ready to buy a house during what is typically the busiest buying and selling time of the year, then offers may be flying, loans may seem confusing, and everything may be moving way too fast. That's why it's important to do everything you can to protect yourself throughout the entire home buying process