What are some tips for relocating and buying a home in a different state? I already know things like schools, climate, jobs etc (have family there that I visit frequently). I am wondering more about things like 1. What lenders will be looking at and, 2. What the process entails and where the transaction actually takes place (there or here?).

What do lenders think when one is relocating, do they take in consideration that you'd obviously be changing jobs and therefore wouldn't have time accrued at the new job? As far as finances, what types of things are going to be issues with getting a loan? Are there different things lenders look at when people are relocating to a completely different area?

Also, we don't have good credit. Our current mortgage has a good record, though (that's about it as far as good credit). We got a lot of leeway on our first mortgage, but I am worried about the second time around, from what I understand it's not looked at the same way as a first home, not as easy to do. What might be some hurdles the second time around?

Can you find out if it's possible to get financed for a home before wasting time looking and trying to sell our home now, and can lenders take into consideration that your current home will be sold before buying a new home or do they treat it like a second home?

Maybe I should simplify my question.

What's the difference, if any, between buying a home in your local area and buying one in a totally different area (from a lenders perspective)?

How does the purchase process differ (what can be done locally and what has to be done in the new state?)?

How does a purchase or loan approval process differ in general when a person already owns a home they intend to sell? Also, how is second time home buying different from the first time?

Any answer would be appreciated.