By Claes Bell • Bankrate.com

1. Check the selling prices of comparable homes in your area.
2. Use Bankrate's mortgage calculator to get an idea of what your monthly mortgage payments would be if you bought today.
3. Find out what your total monthly housing cost would be, including taxes and homeowners insurance.
4. Find out how much you'll likely pay in closing costs.
5. Look at your budget and determine how a house fits into it.
6. Talk to a reputable Realtor in your area about the real estate climate.
7. Remember to look at the big picture.



 Kathy Toth and Team
www.KathyToth.com
Keller Williams Realty