Category: Buyers
The closing process can vary widely from state to state and there are a number of variables that can determine how long it takes to close a transaction. Each step in the home…
When a buyer and seller come to an agreement and sign a contract, the next step is the closing. The period between the contract and closing is called the due diligence period. This gives…
Who is responsible if home defects are found after the closing? While the answer might vary based on the laws in your state, typically, a seller can’t be held liable for defects discovered after…
If you’re a first-time home buyer worried about your credit score or some bad marks in your financial history, don’t get frustrated… you have an ally: the United States Department of Housing and Urban…
Homeowners are responsible for paying their monthly mortgage payments as well as annual real estate taxes and homeowner’s insurance. Oftentimes, lenders will require that you set up an escrow account for taxes and insurance.…
In a typical real estate transaction, an agent from one real estate company works for the seller while an agent from another real estate company works for the buyer. But something called dual agency…
Not all credit inquiries are the same. When someone reviews your credit profile, their inquiry falls into one of two categories – hard or soft – depending on who’s viewing your credit. Here’s the…
The National Association of REALTORS® has developed a special designation for REALTORS® who are trained and qualified to address the needs of home buyers and sellers aged 50 and up. By earning the “Seniors Real…
First time home buyers might not be aware of additional costs associated with the closing process, so here is a list of costs you should be prepared for: Your down payment. If your down…
The average cost of annual home maintenance and repairs is estimated to be about 2 to 4% of the value of a home. No matter how well you maintain your home, you’ll ultimately be…
When you apply for a mortgage, your lender will more than likely require that you get a survey of the property. A survey shows the boundaries of the property and whether there are any…
When searching for a home, you need to be on the lookout for red flags that a house might not be a good fit for you. Here are some potential red flags to look for:…
When a REALTOR® acts in an agency capacity for a buyer or seller, it becomes a fiduciary relationship. This means that, by law, the REALTOR® owes specific duties to their principal. Here are what…
Having your own pool to use on beautiful summer days… sounds great, right? Well, a lot goes into owning a pool, so be sure you know the pros and cons before you make a decision.…
Sellers are obligated to disclose all known adverse material facts about their home to everyone involved in a real estate transaction. “Material facts” are details that would influence a buyer’s decision to buy the…
Most people don’t think it’s necessary to buy moving insurance because they’re under the impression their moving company automatically provides coverage for items that are damaged or destroyed in transit. The fact is, moving companies…
While too much of the “wrong” kind of debt should be avoided, here are some ways certain types of debt can be used to your long-term advantage. “Good” debt is debt that can help make…
The average amount of time a homeowner stays in a house is ten years. Here are some reasons why people might…