Below is a basic calculator that every potential home buyer must use.  It lets you figure out what your monthly payment will be.  Simply plug in the numbers.  No cheating, and don't be overly optimistic about taxes or interest rates either because that is how you can get yourself into trouble and face default on your mortgage or even a foreclosure.  You can ask your Realtor or sales agent about taxes, and make a call to your insurance agent for an estimate of your homeowners insurance premium.  If you live in California don't forget earthquake insurance, or flood insurance if you live in a flood area.  In certain areas there can be a premium for living in a fire zone.  And those of you living in a hurricane prone area might find you also need special insurance policies.  And while you are at it, it might be a good idea to ask your insurance agent about "extra liability insurance" because you don't want to lose your home in a lawsuit brought on by a car accident or the kids throwing a rock through a window.

Here on our new media website "Moneyman" Alan Mendelson who is the original Best Deals TV show reporter shows you the best deals, best buys, bargains and where savvy shoppers go to save, and how to get the most for "your money" in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura County, Riverside County and San Bernardino County.  Our Best Buys TV Show is the only regularly scheduled best deals TV show in Southern California.  We show you more deals on www.alanbestbuys.com and www.vegasbestbuys.com and www.moredeals.com.