I'm a single man with 4 years left till retirement (at 66). Now it's time to get married and buy a house. But what should I do first? I have enough cash to buy a reasonable house without mortgage but with excellent credit and interest rates for 15 years currently below 3.5% I will probably take a mortgage with 50% or so down payment. So, what's prudent to do first: to get married and buy a house?

Not to be a pessimist, but if you can qualify alone, I would suggest you buy the house first then get married. Start with a pre-approval to see what you qualify for and take it from there. Marriage is a wonderful thing, but there are no guarantees. I'd be happy to assist you in getting started.

Marriage or Homeownership...? The age old question. Cash is king... Purchasing a home with a 20 - 25% down payment 1st would be my suggestion. You wouldn't use all your cash purchasing your home, nor having paid for a wedding. Instead you would us a portion and have the rest there as part of your total loan profile. Since you are in Beverly Hills, the Super Jumbo mortgage market likes to see the cash on hand, depending on the rest of the particulars of course - and we specialize in Super Jumbo mortgages. By putting 20 - 25% down you would have access to great interest rates and financing options. Then once in your new home.....pick a bathroom draw and give it the that lucky someone. When you decide to get married you will still have your cash on hand - and already be in your new home. Hope I can help when you are ready to make the plunge. (purchasing the home that is.....still working on becoming ordained)

I would suggest that you ask your fiancee and financial planner.