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7 Tips for First Time Buyers
February 27, 20141. Check the selling prices of comparable homes in your area. Web sites such as Zillow and Homegain can give you a general idea of what you should expect to pay. You can also do a quick search of actual MLS listings in your area on a number of Web sites, including the site of the National Association of Realtors. 2. See what you can afford. Use Bankrate’s mortgage calculator to see what your payment would be. To get a sense of the maximum you should spend, use MSN Real Estate’s home affordability... Read→
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When do you need a real estate lawyer, and what does it cost?
February 23, 2014
By Jayson Schwarz. Lately I have had a large number of homebuyers come to me after the 10-day cooling-off period in their offer has expired. When I ask why they waited, I get one of two standard responses: “I didn’t think I needed a lawyer until it was time to close,” and “The sales agent told me I didn’t need a lawyer until it was time to close.” Wrong on both counts – get a lawyer early! A lawyer must advise you at the time you make your offer, and it is critical that you see a lawyer... Read→
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20 Questions Homebuyers Should Ask Themselves
February 23, 2014
When you start the home buying process for the first time, you will generally start with a “wish list.” You generally add everything you could possibly include in your dream home. Many experienced real estate agents usually find some inconsistencies in these wish lists. For example, you want a home close to the city but in a safe, suburban area. Or possibly you want an old Victorian home with new amenities, but your budget may not include extra funds to update anything in the home. It’s important... Read→