Federal “disclosure” forms define the information that creditor businesses MUST provide to consumers applying for real estate loans. As of Oct 1, 2015 lenders must provide TWO New “TRID” disclosure forms. for the most common kinds of real estate loans First, the Loan Estimate, which covers the key features, costs and risks of a […]
Purchasing a home is exciting. Once escrow begins, the excitement can change to frustration, particularly if you are not ready for the closing costs that quickly accumulate. Closing costs simply refer to the fees associated with various things associated with the escrow process in a real estate transaction. In the excitement of having an offer accepted for your dream home, […]
What is title insurance and why should any buyer get it when purchasing a home (single family, townhouse, condo, apartment, or whatever format your home purchase takes)? Doesn’t the attorney or settlement company handling the closing see to it that you have a clear title? Isn’t this just another way for someone to siphon a few coins off a […]
Professional “staging” may include the exterior, but if you’re doing it all yourself, try the five things outlined in this video. 1 – Landscape & lawn. That’s the first impression; make it a good one. Mow, prune, edge and get rid of junk! 2 – Paint And Clean! You don’t have to do the whole house, but the […]
For many homes and markets, professional help from someone in “staging” makes good financial sense. Like this video say, check your staging options first. If you are doing it yourself, here are 5 key tips. One – Depersonalize. You want the buyer to envision this house being their home? Remove the things that make it YOUR home […]
If you’re selling, don’t do these things – take some notes from the video! 1. Don’t Sell Before The House Is Ready. If it doesn’t present well, it won’t sell well. 2. Don’t Over-Improve People buy houses in neighborhoods. If yours is so “improved” that it sticks out you’re hurting your chances at selling. 3. Hire […]
As this video explains, a signed sales contract doesn’t mean your house is sold. There are still financial, contractual and legal steps for both sides. The buyer has to get financing to meet the contract terms – which includes credit checks. The property is inspected and appraised; title insurance and escrow accounts are set up […]
Watch this video and take a few notes! Always check to see if the house is in a low-lying area in a high-risk area for natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc. or in a hazardous materials area. Be sure the house meets building codes. Also consider local zoning laws which could affect remodeling or […]
As you’ll see in this video, unless you have a buyer’s agent remember that the agent works for the seller. Make a point of asking him or her to keep your discussions and information confidential. Listen to your real estate agent’s advice but follow your own reason on deciding a fair price. Calculating your offer […]
Watch this video and it’ll make sense. Your real estate agent will assist you in making an offer which will include the following information: The Complete legal description of the property The Amount of earnest money The Down payment and financing details The Proposed move-in date The Price you are offering The Proposed closing date […]