Author Archives: Site Administrator
How Do Lenders Decide The Maximum Loan Amount That Buyers Can Afford?
As you’ll see in the video, the lenders consider your debt-to-income ratio, which is a comparison of your gross (pre-tax) income to housing and non-housing expenses. Non-housing expenses include such long-term debts as car or student loan payments, alimony, or child support. According to the FHA, monthly mortgage payments should be no more than… Read More »
How Does Purchasing A Home Compare With Renting?
Like the guy in the video says, the two don’t really compare at all. The one advantage of renting is being generally free of most maintenance responsibilities. But by renting, you lose the chance to build equity take advantage of tax benefits and protect yourself against rent increases.Also, you may be at the mercy… Read More »
How Do I Begin The Process Of Buying A Home?
Remember these pointers from the video: start by thinking about your situation. Are you ready to buy a home? How much can you afford in a monthly mortgage payment? How much space do you need? What areas of town do you like? After you answer these questions, make a “To Do” list and start… Read More »
What Does A Home Inspector Do, And How Does An Inspection Figure In The Purchase Of A Home?
As we show you in this video, an inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home Inspectors focus especially on the structure, construction and mechanical systems of the house and will make you aware of only repairs that are needed. The Inspector does not evaluate whether or not you’re getting good value… Read More »
How Can I Keep Track Of All The Homes I See?
There are some great tips in this video, like: if possible, take photographs of each house: the outside, the major rooms, the yard and extra features that you like or ones you see as potential problems. Write things down as you go. And don’t hesitate to return for a second look. Use the HUD… Read More »
Is An Older Home A Better Value Than A New One?
Well, as this story shows, there isn’t a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods offer more ambiance and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however shouldn’t mind maintaining their home and making… Read More »
What Questions Should I Ask When Looking At Homes?
As you’ll see in this video, many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance like paint, roof, heating and AC, appliances and carpet? Also ask about the house and neighborhood focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the… Read More »
What Should I Look For When Walking Through A Home?
As we show you in this video, in addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists use the HUD Home Scorecard and consider the following: Is there enough room for both the present and the future? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Is the house structurally sound? Do the mechanical… Read More »
What Are “Home Warranties”, And Should I Consider Them?
You’ll see some pictures in this video to help you remember later, but essentially, home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time, such as one year, against potentially costly problems like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems which are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Warranties are becoming more popular because… Read More »
What About A Home Located In A Flood Plain?
A flood plain is an area of land adjacent to a stream or river that experiences flooding during periods of high discharge. Watch this video and it’ll make sense. If you live in a flood plain lenders will require that you have flood insurance before lending any money to you. But if you live… Read More »
