Need advice for financing purchase

[Steve Maye]

Hello,

Recently I posted a topic about purchasing my next rental property.  I had considered paying it off in full rather than any financing, but I received a lot of advice showing that having some debt was a good thing. I will follow that advice, but I could use some help sourcing and evaluating financing options.

I am looking at new and almost new homes.  I will put up to 50% down payment.  One of the builders offers to pay $1500 toward my closing costs.  They have a preferred lender that I will ask for a Good Faith Estimate for closing costs. 

From what I read on the internet it seems closing costs for both the loan and the home purchase can be extensive.  Can someone give me some guidance on minimizing my expenses?