09
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Down Payments 101: Is It Worth It to Put More Than 20 Percent Down?

Are you thinking of buying a new home this spring or summer? If so, you're not alone. Many thousands of individuals and families alike will become homeowners this year. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned veteran of the housing market, you probably know there are significant choices to make. One of the big decisions you will have to ponder is how much you want to invest in your down payment. With that in mind, let's try to answer the question of whether or not it is worth it to put more than 20 percent of the home's price…
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01
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Around The Home, ,

The Mortgage Helper: How to Find the Perfect Tenant for Your Basement Suite

Do you have an empty basement or separated suite in your home? If you have a suite sitting empty, you are missing out on collecting some extra monthly income in the form of rent. Let's take a look at a quick four-step process that will help you find the perfect tenant to rent out your basement suite. Step 1: Play By The Rules Is this your first time renting out a home or suite to a tenant? If so, you will want to do a bit of research first. Read up on Fair Housing Rules and other regulations as these…
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30
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Curious About Homeowners’ Association (HOA) Fees? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you are thinking of buying a condominium or a home that is part of a planned community, you have likely come across the term "homeowners' association" or HOA. In short, the HOA is a coalition of local homeowners who have banded together to manage the needs of the local community. Let's explore the concept of the homeowners' association, why they charge fees and what you can expect from your HOA if you buy a home that is part of one. HOA Fees Are Meant To Make Things Easier HOA fees are meant to make your life easier. Common sense…
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19
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

3 Ways That Buying a New Construction Home Beats Buying an Existing One, Every Time

Are you in the market for a new house? Whether you are a first-time home buyer or are upgrading to get more space, you will need to choose between buying an existing home or building a brand new one. As you might imagine, there are pros and cons to each kind of home. But if it is in your budget, you may want to lean towards a newer home over an older one. Let's explore three reasons why new construction homes are better than existing homes. Customize Every Aspect To Your Tastes Ask anyone living in a custom-built home and…
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18
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Looking to Buy a Home in 2018 and Don’t Know Where to Start? Here’s a Few Tips

Are you a renter that has become tired of paying someone else's mortgage and not building any equity? Or a homeowner who has a growing family and is in need of more space? Whatever the case, if you are in the market for a new home there is no time like the present. Let's explore a few tips that will help you to prepare for the home buying experience. Tip #1: Prepare For A Busy Spring Season First, it should be pretty obvious that you aren't the only house hunter on the market. Other local individuals and families alike will…
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03
Jan
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Buying a Rental Property? These 4 Key Tips Will Ensure You Buy One That Turns a Profit

Are you starting to grow bored of watching your money go nowhere sitting in a bank account? With today's interest rates doing little to encourage saving, many individuals are looking elsewhere for new investment opportunities. In today's blog post we'll share four essential tips for buying a profitable rental property. Let's get started. Buy A Property With Year-Round Potential Many real estate investors agree that the best rental properties are those that generate income every day of the year. The most straightforward situation to manage is one where you have stable, long-term tenants in place that aren't going to move…
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