Articles by Peter Miller - Page 6

You've had your home on the market and you have decided to accept the buyer's offer. But what happens next?

Should you make repairs when selling your home if the buyer asks you to? It depends on your contract, what you can afford, and how good the offer is.

"Should I accept a contingent offer when selling my home?," you might wonder. It depends on the contingencies. Which are normal and which are weird? How desperate are you? And do you have better options?

When you sell a home, of course you want as much as you can get. But when should you reduce the asking price?

The 5 percent mortgage rate is here, and borrowers may want to re-think their mortgage options. But don't worry. There are strategies to reduce mortgages rates and interest costs.

Finding the best real estate agent to sell your home means choosing the level of service you want. Remember this person will be representing you and your property, so choose an agent with experience, skills and professionalism.

How does a real estate agent determine your home asking price? He or she compares it to recent sales and current competition. You can also estimate your own property value with online tools.

When do you need a power of attorney for a real estate purchase? You need a power of attorney to buy or refinance a home when all parties cannot be there to complete the transaction in person.

If you're considering refinancing for extra money, know the cash-out refinance rules. They vary with the loan type, and one loan might be better for you than another. Or you might be better off refinancing your home and then just adding home equity loan.

Like online mortgages, online business loans can make the process easier for borrowers. But there are some dangers for the unwary.

What's an escrow refund? When you refinance, sell your home or have an annual adjustment, your mortgage lender might owe you some money. Here's how to get it back.

Credit score ranges determine how creditors, insurers and even employers look at you. What is a good credit score, and how can you get there?

What's more important for a mortgage: income or credit scores? Both, but even people who earn a lot of money can't get a loan without decent credit. Here's why.

You will encounter mortgage underwriting conditions at almost every step of the mortgage process. But being prepared in advance can minimize the number of requests, and the hassle of meeting them.

Free credit reports are a good way to protect yourself from identity theft and ugly surprises when applying for a job or loan. You can get them from the government for free or by applying for credit with companies like Discover.

Is a bad home inspection good cause for pulling out of your home purchase? It depends on your contract, and the nature of the problem.

Cash to close: Plan on bringing a cashier's check or certified check. or arrange to wire the funds from your bank. You'll need your down payment and closing costs, less earnest money and lender and/or seller credits.

Big data can help real estate professionals find you and help you find the property you want. It can also get your loan processed faster and cheaper. Here's what you need to know as mortgage lending and real estate evolve.

When you buy a home, you'll need to transfer service with utility companies from the previous owner to yourself. Here's how to do it.