HOOK
Buying a home? Your mortgage payment may be higher than the number your lender first quotes. [Split screen: advertised payment vs. real monthly payment breakdown]
KEY POINT 1
The first surprise is property taxes. They can add a few hundred dollars a month, and they vary a lot by state, county, and even neighborhood. [Map animation highlighting different tax rates]
KEY POINT 2
Second, homeowners insurance. Lenders usually roll it into your monthly payment through escrow, so it’s easy to overlook. And if your home is in a flood or wildfire zone, that cost can be much higher. [Home exterior with insurance paperwork and hazard icons]
KEY POINT 3
Third, closing costs. These are the upfront fees due at closing, like lender fees, appraisal, title charges, and prepaids. A common range is about 2% to 5% of the home price, so plan ahead. [Closing table, documents, calculator, pen]
CTA
Before you buy, ask your lender for a full loan estimate and break it down line by line. If you want, I can also show you how to compare two mortgage offers the right way. [On-screen: “Ask for the Loan Estimate”]
