Buying a homeSeptember 12, 2018No, you don’t need 20 percent down or even close to itDown payment notions from decades past no longer apply. Home buyers have access to new options that are changing the way people finance homes.
Buying a homeSeptember 11, 2018Power of Attorney: When you need it to buy or refinance a homeWhen 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.
Buying a homeAugust 31, 2018Applying for a mortgage in 6 months: What should you be doing now?Before applying for a mortgage, a little preparation can get you a better rate, lower fees and fewer hassles.
Buying a homeAugust 22, 2018When I buy a home, when can I move in? How do I get my keys?When you buy a home, these three things have to happen before you get your keys and start moving in.
Buying a homeAugust 17, 2018Moving into a new house: What you need to knowMoving into a new house can be overwhelming. But taking a few smart steps upfront will make the ordeal easier and safer.
Buying a homeAugust 14, 2018I lost my home: Buying a home after foreclosureBuying a home after foreclosure is possible. If you're a former homeowner who wants to buy a again, find your options here.
Buying a homeAugust 7, 2018Home inspection: What does a home inspector do and why should I get one?What does a home inspector do? Things you, the home buyer, need done. Find out what home inspectors do, why they do it, and what to expect from your home inspection.
Buying a homeAugust 5, 2018Small house, smaller down payment: how to get the home you want as fast as possibleBuying a small house can make financing your first home easier. You may have less square footage, but you'll also have a smaller down payment and mortgage.
Buying a homeAugust 2, 2018Buying a second home: pros and consNot everyone likes hotels. Buying a second home might be a better option, so weigh the pros and cons before you decide.
Buying a homeJuly 31, 2018Selling a home: improvements to get top dollarWhat improvements should you make before selling a home? Start with smaller projects and those needed to correct health and safety issues.
Buying a homeJuly 23, 2018Appraisal Repair Requirements for FHA, VA and USDA Home LoansFHA appraisal requirements and those of other government-backed loans may require the completion of home repairs prior to closing. Or you may have to do an escrow holdback. Here's what you need to know.
Buying a homeJuly 21, 2018Buying a home to rent on AirbnbCan you get a mortgage on an Airbnb rental home? Yes, you can under certain home loan programs.
Buying a homeJuly 19, 2018Why every home buyer needs a pre-approval before home shoppingSellers and agents won;t take you seriously as a buyer without mortgage pre-approval. And making an offer without it can cause major embarrassment.
Buying a homeJuly 18, 2018How do you maintain a second home if it’s far away?How can you keep your second home repaired and maintained and repaired from a distance?
Buying a homeJuly 17, 2018What happens when I’m “clear to close”?Being clear to close (CTC) means you have satisfied all the lender's requirements and can get your loan documents and close any time.
Buying a homeJuly 11, 2018What’s in a home inspection report?A home inspection can find a home's hidden defects before you buy it. Here's what to expect on your report, and how to read it.
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.