Pity the poor millennial. Saddled with out-of-this-world student-loan debt, above average unemployment and helicopter parents micromanaging their every move, people younger than 35 can find it hard to make their own path in the world. And buy a house? Forget about it. Despite historically low interest rates and a glut of cut-rate… read more →
In the long run, buying a home can often be cheaper than renting. But until you see the payoff, your wallet may feel some pain. And it all starts with the down payment. (Plus, to avoid private mortgage insurance on a conventional loan, you’ll need to put 20% of the purchase price down… read more →
If you’re looking to buy a foreclosure property, a foreclosure auction should be your first stop. When lenders take over properties, foreclosure auctions are your first, and often only, chance to buy the property—but don’t assume getting a deal is a standard practice. To make sure you’re getting the best price,… read more →
Bad neighbors can be a serious problem, according to the Appraisal Institute. An unkempt yard, proximity to a sex offender or having certain commercial facilities nearby, such as a power plant or funeral home, can reduce the value of surrounding homes by as much as 15%. The impact can vary… read more →
There are about 80,000 real estate appraisers in the U.S., and they play a key role in most home sales: Until they weigh in with a determination of a property’s value, the buyer typically can’t finalize a mortgage. The profession got a reputational black eye, however, during the housing boom… read more →
Getting denied a home loan can be caused by a number of factors. Before you apply, check out with these factors may be – and what you can do to avoid rejection. No matter how you look at it, getting rejected for a home loan can hurt. With some new rules… read more →
He bristles at your questions about his work history. He says there’s no reason to solicit other contractor bids. His company demands payment up front, in cash. He tells you this is the way renovations get done. Maybe you don’t know any different because this is your first major home… read more →
VA appraisals are a critical part of the 70-year-old VA loans benefit program. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. VA appraisals help ensure veterans purchase homes that are safe, structurally sound and salable. There are two elements: a valuation of the property and an assessment of property conditions. We’ll take a… read more →
Getting denied a home loan can be caused by a number of factors. Before you apply, check out with these factors may be – and what you can do to avoid rejection. No matter how you look at it, getting rejected for a home loan can hurt. With some new rules… read more →
Family togetherness isn’t just for Thanksgiving dinner. More young adults are now living with their parents than during the recession, according to U.S. Census data. The share of 18-34 year olds living with their parents was 31.5% as of March, 2015, up from 31.4% last year, according to a report from the Commerce… read more →