Blog – Page 524 of 607

25 Jan 2019

Buy Or Build Your Home? 5 Factors To Consider

Real EstateBuild Home, New Home, Real Estate

A home is one of the biggest investments you can make, and the American Dream for many. Most people spend significant time finding or designing their "dream home." The first decision is whether to buy or build. As of September 2018, the average sales price of a new home was $377,200, according to joint data collected from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Existing homes sales price was approximately $258,100, according to the National Association of Realtors. New homes attract bigger prices than existing ones, meaning building costs are also high. So, how do…

3 Tips To Save For A Down Payment

MortgageDown Payment, Financing Options, Mortgage

Saving up for a down payment can feel overwhelming. Most people have never saved up the kind of money it takes for a down payment. It can be done, though. The goal is to put 20% down on a house. This is what it takes if you don't want to have to pay private mortgage insurance every month. However, you don't have to absolutely put 20% down. Some mortgage programs, such as VA and FHA loans, let borrowers put down as little as zero down or about 3.5% down. There are extra requirements with any kind of mortgage you get,…

How The Title Search Works

Real EstateReal Estate, Title Company, Title Search

A title search is an early warning system for buyers and lenders. It reveals flaws the owner must resolve prior to a closing or refinance request. This allows the owner to clear any issues on the title so that the process can move forward. Also, it protects the buyer or lender from assuming an obligation they aren't responsible for. Title Search A chain of title exists in the public records. It shows the history of property title transfer from each previous owner to the next. Unfortunately, these searches are labor intensive and require a specialist called a title examiner. The…