Buying a homeJuly 10, 2018How do I finalize my offer to buy a home?To buy a home, you need an offer and acceptance. Here's how to finalize your offer to purchase a home.
Buying a homeJuly 9, 2018HOA rules: Check your CC&Rs early to avoid buyer’s remorseHOA rules can make your new condo or home a relaxing haven. But your HOA could also be a micromanaging, fine-levying bully. Here's how to avoid HOA problems when you buy a home.
Buying a homeJuly 7, 2018What is “recording” when closing on a home purchase?Recording fees and practices vary between counties in the US. But the process itself is required for all real estate transactions because they are by law public records Here's what you need to know.
Buying a homeJuly 6, 2018Mortgage closing: What happens at your signingWhat happens at a mortgage closing? You sign documents making you responsible for a home loan. You pay closing costs. And yu get the keys to the kingdom.
Buying a homeJuly 4, 2018Should I bail after a really bad home inspection?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.
Buying a homeJuly 2, 2018Home closing: What you need to read, what you can skimCash 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.
Buying a homeJune 26, 2018When is my first mortgage payment due?When is my first mortgage payment due? You just made a down payment and paid closing costs. Here's how to determine when your first mortgage payment is due.
Buying a homeJune 25, 2018Big data and real estate: New systems save time and moneyBig 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.
Buying a homeJune 25, 2018Condo or house: Which should I buy?What's better for you? A condo or house? Find out how to compare them and make the right choice when you buy a home.
Buying a homeJune 23, 2018Use your mortgage Closing Disclosure (CD) to get the deal you were promised
Buying a homeJune 19, 2018Getting Sellers to Pay Your Closing CostsYou can reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket closing costs if you can convince the seller to pay them.
Buying a homeJune 18, 2018Home closing: Avoid falling at the finish lineOnce you have mortgage approval, don't blow it before the home closing process. Avoid changes to your application and make sure your final documents are correct.
Buying a homeJune 8, 2018What’s a contingency in a real estate purchase contract?What does contingent mean? Contingent real estate offers require something to happen before the deal can close -- for instance, you must get approved for a mortgage. Most offers have some contingencies, but sellers prefer cleaner deals.
Buying a homeJune 7, 2018Watch Out for These Pitfalls in Your Real Estate Purchase AgreementBy law, a real estate purchase agreement must be in writing. Be aware of potential problems they can contain. Make sure you read and understand them before signing anything.
Buying a homeJune 3, 2018Counteroffer definition: What does it mean when I get a counteroffer?Counteroffer definition: a proposal in response to a real estate purchase offer. The counter offer means that the seller accepts the buyer's offer, subject to certain changes. The buyer can accept, reject or counter the seller's counter-offer.
Buying a homeMay 30, 2018Adult child living at home: From Mom’s basement to homeownershipIf you are an adult child living at home (or if you have an adult child living at home), this guide will help you pull a plan together to get out of your parent's house and into a home of your own.
Buying a homeMay 28, 2018Safe neighborhood: How to check it out before buying a homeHow to choose A SAFE neighborhood when buying a home? By investigating online and in-person. Here's how.
Buying a homeMay 24, 2018Costs of Owning a Home: What to Expect the First YearThe costs of owning a home may surprise you if you're a first-timer. House expenses should be part of your budget when you buy a home. Costs of home ownership are manageable if you plan ahead.
Buying a homeMay 18, 2018Pros and cons of different types of homesOften, the first step to deciding which home to buy starts with deciding which type of home. Condos, single-family residences, zero-lot-lines -- each has its advantages for different kinds of home buyers.