26
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Homebuyer Tips, ,

Is Buying a Remodeled Home a Smart Move

While watching shows like Property Brothers, Flip or Flop, Fixer to Fabulous, Fix My Flip and Fixer Upper may paint a rosy picture of buying a remodeled home, the reality often differs significantly. While these shows depict smooth transformations and stunning results, real-life experiences with remodeled homes can be far more complex and challenging. Many flipped houses come with hidden issues. Contractors sometimes prioritize speed over quality, resulting in careless workmanship. Despite the initial aesthetic appeal, problems may emerge months down the line. While purchasing a flipped property can be enticing, thorough research is paramount. Here are some red flags…
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21
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Homebuyer Tips, ,

A Comprehensive Guide to Explaining Escrow Accounts

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned homeowner considering a refinance, the term "escrow account" often looms as a source of confusion. Yet, understanding the ins and outs of escrow accounts is crucial for managing your homeownership responsibilities effectively. In this article, we'll address some common questions and concerns regarding escrow accounts to shed light on their importance and functionality. What is an Escrow Account? Escrow accounts, sometimes referred to as "impound" accounts, serve as a financial mechanism to facilitate the payment of property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Typically, lenders require homeowners to contribute a portion of these expenses…
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01
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Homebuyer Tips,

Embracing the Future: Work-From-Home and Its Impact on Housing Needs

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the way we work underwent a profound change in the way most people do business. It became apparent that working from home was more than a temporary change. As companies adapted to remote work models, many employees found themselves unleashed from traditional office spaces. The rise of remote work not only reshaped our professional lives but also had a profound impact on our housing needs and choices. As we move forward, it's essential to understand the dynamics of this shift and how it shapes the future of housing. The Rise of Remote Work:…
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02
Nov
By Adrian Willanger
1 Comment
Homebuyer Tips, ,

How to Go From Renting to Owning a Home

Going from renting to owning a home can be a significant financial and personal milestone, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some steps to take to make the transition from renting to owning: Determine your budget: Calculate your current expenses and income to determine how much you can afford to spend on a home. Consider factors such as down payment, closing costs, monthly mortgage payments, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance. Save for a down payment: A down payment is typically required when purchasing a home, and the larger the down payment, the lower your monthly mortgage payments…
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26
Oct
By Adrian Willanger
6842 Comments
Homebuyer Tips, ,

Important Tips When Making a Down Payment for a Home

When it comes to purchasing a home, one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make is how much to put down as a down payment. Your down payment not only affects the amount you need to borrow but also plays a vital role in determining your mortgage interest rate and overall financial stability. Here are crucial tips to keep in mind when making a down payment for a home: Determine Your Budget and Financial Goals: Before you start setting aside money for a down payment, you must understand your budget and financial goals. Assess your current financial situation, including…
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04
Oct
By Jim Hasek
Homebuyer Tips, ,

Buying or Selling a Home This Winter? Keep These Tax Tips in Mind!

With all of the expense that can go into buying and selling a home, it's good to be aware of what you can claim and how a home can benefit you come tax time. When the New Year rolls around and you're sitting down to the task of completing your taxes, here are a few things that you'll want to keep in mind. Gaining from Capital Gains In the event that you've made money off the sale of your home through a capital gain, it's possible that you may be able to exclude this amount from your tax filing. If…
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