A good broker knows a great deal about cost comparatives. A buyer broker is one who works for you , They can save you a lot of wasted time and effort. Normally the larger the down, the better , such as lower interest, smaller payments . Adjustable rates are lower but, fixed rates will remain the same for the life of the loan. Inspect, no matter what age the house.
Inspections saves buyers from costly surprises.
Drive by at different times of the day and evening, ask a Realtor, talk to the building department. The more you know the less chances you take. Settling at the end of the month. A good investor knows that the best time to close, is on the 3rd to the 5th of the month. Banks will give you thirty days after closing before the first payment is due, that should take care of closing costs.