'How To Buy Your First Home' workshop to guide first-time home buyers

The housing market recovery in San Antonio continues to be driven in large part by first-time home buyers.
To help first-timers navigate a sometimes intimidating process, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater San Antonio, a non-profit, is hosting a "How to Buy Your First Home" workshop.
The free event will take place Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon at the CCCS office at 6851 Citizens Parkway.
A big lure for buyers are historically low interest rates.
"That's why these workshops draw a lot of people," said Gloria Delgado, CCCS president and CEO. "They so much want to have their own home, but they are not sure where they stand on their credit score or where they stand on everything else involved."
Before shopping for the perfect four-bedroom bungalow, Delgado said buyers should find their credit report and credit score. The credit score is a key factor lenders consider when making loans.
"The mortgage companies have pretty high standards because of all the regulations," she said.
To find out how much house you can afford, Delgado said you should shop different lenders and then get pre-approved for a mortgage, not just pre-qualified.
Homebuyers should also be aware that there are additional expenses, like closing costs.
"There's taxes, home insurance," Delgado said. "You may need to buy a refrigerator, things you haven't had to do as a renter.
To see a list of stories done by Marilyn Moritz, click here.