Posts with tag 'Real Estate Market Trends'

It's finally here! Closing day! Before you get swept away in the excitement of a new house, make sure you remember some important points with the home closing process. Here are some thoughts to consider.

1. Know exactly what you are buying. Buying a home is a major investment. Do your homework and make sure the property has been inspected and you know exactly what you are getting.
   
   
2. Know how you are paying. It's important to educate yourself on the type of loan you about to inherit, when payments are due, what the interest rate is and any penalties associated with the loan. When signing the paperwork, ask questions and make sure you understand the terms of the loan.
   
   
3. Know what out of pocket expenses are associated with the closing. Although you have a loan, there is a possibility that some money will need to be paid out so the closing can proceed smoothly and the closing happens on time.
   
   
4. Know if you're "turne...

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You're finally ready to buy. You have worked hard to get to where you want to be and you have a plan. However, part of that plan contains a degree of uncertainty-knowing how long it will take to find the right home. In a tight real estate market, this could take some time. Valuable, precious time so don't waste it!

Patience is crucial to make the best decision possible when selecting a home. The best way to prepare is to make a list of the most important items of the home. Always remember that there will be other buyers with possibly the same list of factors that they want in a home as well. If you aren't the winning bidder for a home, make sure you have a plan in place to continue and don't let a setback discourage moving forward.

Being realistic is also important when home shopping. Not every home will have all of the features you are looking for so make sure you select features that are deal breakers when searching. Seeing a home in person versus an online listing...

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Did you know that with a USDA loan you can buy a house without a down payment? Many are not aware of this mortgage product because it is not widely used. These loans are made through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Office of Rural Development and are to be used to buy a home in what is considered a "rural" area.  However, according to the terms of a USDA loan what is considered as "rural" can include many communities that could be considered suburban areas. 

Did you know that your credit card balances could be affecting your credit score even if you make you payments on time? Credit cards and any type of revolving credit can affect your score by having a high amount of money owed. It's best to remember to stay anywhere from 30% to 50% below your credit limit. So, even if you are making on time payments, if your card is maxed out this can have a negative...

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We buy new linens in January because of "white sales." We buy school supplies in the summer because "back to school" sales are great. And we buy cars at the end of the model year because we know dealers are willing to negotiate.

Now, home buyers are looking to the real estate market for a good "deal".

Housing prices are starting a steady climb, indicating confidence in the economy and job market.

Mortgage rates are at near historic lows. Housing at a good value and low mortgage rates set the stage for singles and families who want a good buy and a good investment.

Housing prices are no longer in free fall

Economists state the housing market is on the comeback. In the final months of 2012, prices of home sales started rising at a pace of more than 7 percent. New home sales also jumped.

According to Fiserv (FISV) Case-Shiller, home prices will increase by 3.3 percent over the next five years. Fiserv reports 2012 wa...

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