Articles by Erik J. Martin - Page 16

Affordable housing markets are more available than you think. At least if you're in one of the 60 percent of markets that have become more affordable lately.

Is it the right time to become a homeowner? Many home buyers and sellers believe that it is. And with interest rates still below 4 percent, you should probably consider homeownership as well.

This might be your best time of year to buy a home. Find out why, and how much you can save.

It is easier today than it has been for many years to qualify for a mortgage. That's because lenders re competing for fewer borrowers, and they have had to loosen their guidelines as a result.

Buying property when you're childless doesn't mean ignoring things that families value. Your future needs (or those of your future buyers) should also count.

Student loans present a big hazard to first-time buyers looking for a mortgage. But they don't have to.

If you need help affording your home, consider buying with a co-borrower. This person can't make up for bad credit, but can help with qualifying income.

Buying a house in an area distressed by flood, hurricane, earthquake or other natural disaster is not as crazy as it sounds. It may be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Single women home buyers have a home equity disadvantage according to several studies. Here's what you can do about it.

If the low housing supply is making your home search frustrating, try these strategies to get your foot in the door.

Unless your mortgage lender forces you to get flood insurance, you probably don't have it. But you should -- these days, as one FEMA official put it, we all live in a flood zone.

To find better home values, you may not get to buy in your first choice area. But a smart buy today may get you where you want to be tomorrow.

You know it's location, location, location when buying a home. But did you know that the grocery store that's near your home can influence its value?

If you want to start a business, buy a home. Yes, those two goals can support each other. Find out how.

House values have risen at a nice clip, providing an excellent return for recent buyers. But there is still money on the table for tomorrow's buyers.

How to buy a house when the competition is white hot? You may have to move fast. Even make an offer without seeing the property in person. You can do it safely if you build in the right protection.

Millennial homebuyers are not as rare as the media would have you think. You, too, can break into home buying with the right preparation.

In a seller's market, you have to be on your toes and ready to move quickly. Here's how to compete successfully.

Home prices are rising as demand for housing outstrips demand. You may be able to take advantage of this demand if you play it smart and follow these tips.

Buying a home without considering utility costs is like buying a car without checking the gas mileage. But many forget to do this when they go shopping.