Home Buying Tips: Three Items to Watch out for in a Purchase Agreement Contract

The purchase agreement is a vitally important document that outlines the provisions, terms and conditions for the transfer of property. It should be read carefully and any ambiguities should be clarified prior to signing. It is a legally binding contract between the buyer and seller. The purchase agreement may vary depending on the location. Most real estate agents use a form that has been approved by a state realtors association. The seller may have a different version that was drawn up by an attorney. It should not be assumed that they are all the same. Typically, the purchase agreement will…
Read More

Separation Anxiety: How to Deal with a Joint Mortgage Loan in the Event of a Divorce

During the course of a marriage, it is common for the couple to acquire property together. This is what is referred to as joint or community property. When a couple divorces, it is up to the parties involved to determine what happens to this joint property or let a judge use applicable law to determine how property is to be split. What Happens To The House? A couple of options are available when deciding what to do with a house where both partners are listed on the mortgage. First, the couple may decide to simply sell the home and split…
Read More

Lowballing 101: How to Avoid Insulting a Home Seller when Making a Low Offer for Their House or Condo

Buying a home is a huge step for people who are ready to make an investment in their future. Getting a great deal on a home is just as important and knowing how much to offer could be confusing. It is important to make sure the home seller is not insulted by the lowball offer and is ready to negotiate to make sure everyone wins. Make a List of Necessary Improvements One of the best ways to validate a lowball offer on a home is to list improvements that need to be made to the property. If the home needs…
Read More

Scam Alert! Three Mortgage Modification Scams to Watch out for (And How to Avoid Them)

As if homeowners who are facing foreclosure don't have enough to worry about, a multitude of loan modification scam artists have invaded the internet, public files and even foreclosure notices in newspapers in hopes of targeting their next victim. By identifying the top three modification scams and learning how to avoid them, at-risk homeowners can protect themselves (and their homes). Never Pay For Mortgage Modification Assistance Many desperate homeowners fall victim to scam artists who offer to provide them with assistance in the loan modification process for an exorbitant fee. Many times the scam artist who promises to provide assistance…
Read More

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – Aug 18, 2014

Last week's economic news brought little housing-related content, but several economic reports in other sectors contributed to overall perceptions of the economy. In a speech given in Sweden, Fed Vice President Stanley Fischer noted that the economy might be in a period of "secular stagnation." This condition is expected to keep interest rates low for longer than expected. A survey of small business owners showed that confidence increased by 0.70 in July. Job openings for June increased from 4.60 million to 4.70 million. Readings for several reports fell shy of expectations and new jobless claims were higher than expected. Economic…
Read More

Experiencing ‘Purchase Anxiety’? How to Calm Your Nerves Before Committing to Buy a New Home

Whether this is your first big purchase, or your family is moving to a new location or looking for more space, buying a home has its share of ups and downs. It's perfectly normal to feel anxious about whether or not you've found the right property. Here are some things you can do to make yourself feel more secure with your decision. Do The Math You've probably already done this, but it's okay to go over it a number of times to be sure. Factor in your household income and all the bills you expect to pay every month. Add…
Read More