25
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate, ,

Buying a Home with Friends: A Growing Trend in Homeownership

For many aspiring homeowners, skyrocketing prices and strict lending requirements have made purchasing a home feel out of reach. But instead of giving up on the dream, some buyers are getting creative by teaming up with friends to buy a home together. This unconventional approach to homeownership is gaining popularity, especially among millennials and Gen Z buyers who value financial flexibility and shared responsibilities. But is buying a home with friends the right move for you? Let’s explore why this trend is growing, the potential benefits, and what you should consider before taking the plunge. Why More Friends Are Buying…
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19
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Home Buyer Tips, ,

10 Steps to Buying a Home with Confidence

Buying a home is a major milestone, but it can also be overwhelming. Understanding the process will help you navigate each step with confidence. Here’s a simplified guide to buying a home: 1. Check Your Credit Score Your credit score impacts your loan approval and interest rate. Get free reports from Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion to check for errors. A higher score (typically 720+) can secure better loan terms. 2. Determine Your Budget Before house hunting, assess how much home you can afford. Consider your savings, income, and monthly expenses. Use online mortgage calculators to estimate your buying power. 3.…
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13
Mar
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate, ,

The Difference Between Pending And Contingent Deals

The real estate market can be a bit confusing, especially when you encounter terms like "pending" and "contingent" deals. Understanding these terms is crucial whether you're a buyer or a seller, as they can significantly impact the progression of a property transaction. What Is a Contingent Deal? A contingent deal occurs when a seller has accepted an offer from a buyer, but the sale is dependent on certain conditions being met. These conditions, or contingencies, are clauses included in the contract that must be satisfied for the sale to proceed. Common contingencies include: Home Inspection Contingency: The buyer can back…
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28
Feb
By Adrian Willanger
Construction Loan, ,

Buy or Build? Which is Right for You?

Deciding between buying and building a home is a major financial and lifestyle choice. Each option has its benefits and challenges, and understanding them can help you make the best decision for your needs. Pros of Buying a House One of the biggest advantages of buying a house is convenience. Once you close the deal, you can move in immediately—no waiting for construction to finish. Established neighborhoods also offer access to schools, parks, shopping centers, and essential services, making location selection easier. Financially, buying a home can often be more affordable than building, especially in a buyer’s market where deals…
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27
Dec
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate Tips, ,

Exploring Down Payment Options for Homebuyers

Saving for a down payment is a common hurdle for many homebuyers, but there are several ways to make it happen. Whether you’re tapping into savings, receiving a gift, or utilizing assistance programs, understanding your options can make the journey to homeownership smoother. Common Sources for Down Payments Gifts from Family or Friends Gifts can come from immediate family members, relatives by marriage, legal guardians, or close friends (with proper documentation). Lenders require a gift letter confirming that the money doesn’t need to be repaid. Eligibility rules vary by loan program, so check with your lender. 401(k) Funds Loan Option:…
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24
Dec
By Adrian Willanger
Real Estate, ,

Can I Buy a Duplex with an FHA Loan?

If you're in the market to buy a duplex or similar multi-unit property, you may be wondering whether you can use an FHA loan to finance your purchase. FHA loans are well-known for helping first-time homebuyers, but they can also be used to purchase duplexes. Here's everything you need to know about FHA loans, how they work, and whether they're a good fit for your homebuying plans. What is an FHA Loan?An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration, designed to make homeownership more accessible. These loans come with lower down payment requirements, making them ideal…
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