If you’re considering entering the market to buy your first home and feel you have numerous unanswered questions: Have no fear – your HERO is here!

The dream of owning a home is still alive and well for many people – and the financial hurdles of realizing that dream don’t have to stop South Dakotans in need from pushing forward on a home purchase.

The Governor’s House program provides safe, affordable, healthy housing for residents who need some assistance.

Here’s a breakdown on what the program has to offer.

If you’ve begun the process of buying your first home, you’ve probably heard it all. “Get preapproved.” “Shop around.” “Try a First-Time Homebuyer Loan.”

What about the tips you don’t hear from every friend and family member? They’re just as important but not talked about as often.

Here are nine examples of advice that could benefit your homebuying process that you may not have heard yet.

You insure your car. You insure your health. You even insure your life. So why wouldn’t you insure your belongings when you’re in (or about to enter into) a rental agreement? Circumstances might call for replacing some or all of your prized possessions, so ensuring you have a little assistance in paying for these replacements is a no-nonsense decision. 

Here are five factors to keep in mind when determining your renters’ insurance needs. 

We all have those necessities in life that just don't seem all that necessary. We ignore the "check engine light" at first, we push the gas tank to its last sputters to avoid a trip to the gas station and we roll our eyes when a friend or family member says, "You should get renter's insurance."

When it comes to building a good reputation in the housing market as a reliable lender, feedback from your key markets is, well, key. That’s why the South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s (SDHDA) regular survey of mortgage lending customers participating in the SDHDA homeownership programs offers some valuable insight into where your customers’ heads are at.

The 26th Annual Statewide Housing Conference is just around the corner. Set to take place Oct. 25-26, at the Ramkota RiverCenter in Pierre, the conference will feature plenty of networking opportunities and breakout sessions covering topics ranging from property management and housing policies to development and homeownership.

Let’s face it – moving can be a stressful ordeal. (Unless you’re a fan of packing and unpacking, in which case, have fun!) The truth is, it can be a big source of stress, particularly if it’s your first time buying a home.

Inclement weather, a freak accident or even a burglar who just couldn’t help him or herself – whatever the case, your property might be prone to damage of some kind. It’s not a fun reality, but it’s a reality nonetheless.

If you’re navigating your first time buying a home, you’ll inevitably reach the point where the financing has come through and is all in order, the search is complete and you’ve found the ideal property and it’s officially time to close on your new house. That means the time has finally come.