Home Buyers Race Against Tax Deadline

Closing can also slow down the process. Try to get your insurance company and the homeowner's association, if applicable, to forward a cost estimate to the escrow company early. This will make it easier for them to more accurately estimate your closing costs, which in many states must be paid in cash at closing.

In surveys, 35% of first-time buyers said the mortgage application and approval process was more difficult than they expected. Research potential lenders early on, and organize your pay stubs, bank statements and tax returns so you'll be ready when it's time to apply.

-- Reported by Joe Mont in Boston.

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