| Is
it time for you to buy?
Is
real estate season the best time to buy? -- There's a distinct home buying
season. Whether you're a buyer or a seller, knowing what the season is can help
you plot your strategy. Who
should not be looking to buy? -- Sure, everyone says to buy a house as soon
as you can. But you might want to stop and think whether that advice really applies
to you before handing over that down payment. Tax
breaks for homeowners -- There are lots of tax reasons to own a home. Here's
how to make the most of them and avoid the pitfalls. A
timeline for buying a home -- You've got plenty to do. We'll help you keep
track of what and when you need to do it.
Get
your ducks in a row
How
much house can you afford? -- Let us help you do the math by figuring your
housing expenses against your income. Get
pre-approved, not pre-qualified -- It makes things easier for both you and
the seller. For
Sale by Owner or use an agent? -- Can you avoid using a real estate agent?
Yes, but it might not be a good idea. Good
news about good-faith estimates -- Your lender is
required by the federal Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act to provide you with
a good faith estimate of the fees due at closing within three days of applying
for a loan. When the going gets rough
Best
and worst real estate markets in America -- A strong 2004 real estate season
will help keep prices moving upward. 7
things never to do when thinking about a new home -- Starting to think about
buying a house? Here are seven things you should never do -- and some may surprise
you. Cash
down top roadblock to homebuying -- The lack of
a sufficient down payment is most often the most difficult obstacle to overcome
in the effort to buy a home.
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