As more Americans file their tax returns, it is becoming increasingly necessary for them to decide what to do with the money they get.
For the second year in a row, you have additional time to file your federal taxes. On March 17th, the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year will be automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.
This gives you a little more time to decide what you will do with your tax refund.
– Would your tax refund be enough for a down payment on a new home?
– Do you feel you should use this to pay off debt?The possibilities are endless, however, whatever you do decide to do, always choose the path that will give you the largest return on investment (ROI).
The housing market is in a frenzy right now.
Tight supply conditions and strong demand have made the housing market highly competitive and fast-paced, with most homes in a multiple offer situation. If you're going to jump in this pool of homebuyers, be ready to swim quickly! You and your agent should be prepared to write a strong offer with the least number of contingencies.
But what is the first step in preparation? Getting pre-qualified. Meeting with a loan officer is the first step, so when you are ready to submit the winning offer, you have your qualification letter in hand.
Your loan officer will review your credit, your debt to income ratio, and determine what the best route for you is. Lenders like to see your debt to income less than 43%. There are three types of loans that all vary in the down payment amount. The different types are VA, FHA or Conventional. Based on the different loan types and your circumstances, your loan officer will provide direction as to the best loan option for you.
Start preparing now for that first meeting. You will need the following documents in hand so your loan officer can review your file.
1.) 1-2 years tax returns
2.) Pay-stubs, W2's, or proof of other income
3.) Bank statements and other assets
4.) Be prepared to explain any blemishes on your credit report
5.) Photo ID
6.) Rental history
7.) Gift letters
Once you have established whether your tax refund is best used for your down payment rather than paying off debt, set your first showing with your agent and have your pre-qualification letter in hand.
Now the fun begins!
There is a famous quote by Mark Twain that speaks volumes.
“Buy land; they're not making it anymore."
