Develop a family budget. Instead of budgeting what you'd like to spend, use receipts to create a budget for what you actually spent over the last six months. One advantage of this approach is that it factors in unexpected expenses, such...
Credit scores, along with your overall income and debt, are a big factor in determining if you'll qualify for a loan and what loan terms you'll be able to qualify for.
Check for and correct errors in your credit report. Mistakes happ...
Buying a home is a major step in anyone's life. You should prepare yourself by making a few preliminary decisions to determining what you want and can afford. Following the steps below can make your life much easier.
Tips on Buying a H...
Mortgage term. Mortgages are generally available at 15-, 20-, or 30-year terms. The longer the term, the lower the monthly payment if the same amount is borrowed. However, you pay more interest overall if you borrow for a longer term.
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The lender must disclose a good faith estimate of all settlement costs. A check to cover your closing costs will probably have to be a cashiers check. The title company or other entity conducting the closing will tell you the required amo...
Are you short that 20 percent down payment? Have you been in a job less than five years? Is that out-of-control college credit card frenzy years ago keeping you from even thinking about applying for a home loan? If any of these scenarios ...
Answer these questions to help you decide whether moving up makes sense.
How much equity do you have in your home? Look at your annual mortgage statement or call your lender to find out. Usually, you dont build up much equity in the first ...
According to recent statistics published by the U.S. Census Bureau, 75% of multifamily investors are over the age of 45. Over half of these (51.6%) own less than five units, and they earned approximately 31% of their income from ownership of re...
REALTORS: This handout is meant to help you convert FSBOs. You may personalize and customize this handout as needed.
Consider comparables. What have other homes in your neighborhood sold for recently? How do they compare to yours in ...
No home is flawless, but certain physical problems can be expensive. Watch for:
Water leaks. Look for stains on ceilings and near the baseboards, especially in basements or attics.
Shifting foundations. Look for large cracks along...
