Saving for a downpayment is often the most daunting part of the homebuying process. Having enough cash to put 20% down may seem out of reach, but don’t let that high number discourage you from becoming a homeowner. Despite what many people say, you don’t have to put 20% down to get the keys to…
Posts Categorized: Buy a Home
There’s more to comparing the costs of renting and owning a home than the dollar cost of payments. Even with numbers like these, some still say renting is better: “Investing in a home is riskier than renting.” No risk, no reward. Besides, even studies conducted by the Federal Reserve show that owning can provide a net…
When prices are rising, why not let the market help you? It’s great to save up for a large down payment of 20% or more. Yet, when prices are on the rise, saving quickly enough to keep pace can be extremely difficult. In times such as these, why not let the market build equity for…
Many factors go into calculating value of a home. Most importantly, recently sold comparable properties must be considered. “Comps” should be similar in location, size, style, room count, condition, utility, etc. Appraisal is part art and part science, and the latter is hard to change. Sometimes, the hardest thing for owners is to be…
Understanding the HOW and WHY of Escrow Accounts Escrow accounts provide for the timely payment of taxes and insurance on your home. This prevents tax liens, loss of property and any lapse of insurance coverage. As part of your regular mortgage payment, 1/12th of the annual cost is collected. These funds are held and paid out as bills…
