It’s great to be your own boss. That is until you need to convince someone to give you a loan. But with a good plan and support from your loan officer, you’ll find that buying a home is one more American dream you can achieve.

If you’re a person on the go and hate mowing grass and raking leaves, maintenance-free condo living might be for you. And if you’re buying a condo with an FHA or VA loan program because of their attractive low-down payment and flexible credit qualifications, you need to be aware that the condo you are considering must be in an approved development.  

You’re buying your first house! No more fighting over parking spaces, unexpected rent increases or putting up with noisy neighbors. If you’re planning to make a move this year, here are five tips that can set you on a path that leads to your very own front door.