Personal Finance and Investing

Most likely the number they give will be higher - much higher - than you will be comfortable spending. Doesn't mean you have to spend it but it is best to have some wiggle room.

My experience has been that closing costs are typically rolled into the loan. As far as appraisal, that depends on the lender as to whether you have to pay that upfront or if it can/will be rolled into the loan. (Note that even though you will be paying for it, you won't be the one to order it. Your lender will do that.)

I can't speak to whether or not you can finance any other expenses as I've never done that on a purchase. I have done so on a refinance but that's because I had equity in the house. Accordingly, I'm thinking there are a number of factors that would play into whether or not this is even a possibility - i.e., appraised value vs purchase price, type of loan, etc. Your realtor and your lender will best be able to advise you based on the specifics of your situation.

Best advice I can give is to shop your rate. And not just the interest rate, but closing costs as well. My last mortgage, a refinance, was done completely online because the rate was about half a percent less than I could find locally. Closing costs were cheaper, too.

Take your time and remember to have fun! While buying your first home is a bit terrifying and can be stressful, it's also very exciting!