While some home buyers only want to live in a brand new home and will custom build a home to their specifications, others are drawn to the historic character and charm of a classic home. Older homes may have incredible architectural detail and special features that you simply do not want to change. However, there are some essential features that should be upgraded as soon as possible after you take ownership of your classic home. The Electrical Panel Many older homes were built at a time when electricity use was at a minimum, but the reliance on electricity has increased over the years. Older … [Read More...]
Aside from owning a business, owning rental property has been one of the top investment choices for people, most commonly done through buying a second home. Handled right, income properties can generate significant gains for investors, both in terms of real estate appreciation as well as monthly income from tenants. However, it’s not sure a surefire approach to financial success. There are a lot of ways that a budding real estate investor can go sideways with an investment property home purchase as well. Watch Out for the Seller-Renter Many times people will sell a home but then offer to … [Read More...]
There can be a lot of excitement when it comes to the realization that you've inherited a home, but simply because it's an inheritance doesn't mean there aren't a few strings attached. Whether you're expecting to be gifted with a home in the future or you're currently going through this process, here are a few things you may need to watch out for. The State Of The Mortgage Once a home has been effectively handed over to you, it's important to determine the status of the mortgage with the lender and if anything is still owed. While you have the option of taking over the mortgage in a lot of … [Read More...]
Most of the focus on stimulus checks has been on "when" they will arrive, but if you are in the market for a new home (and mortgage) you should know how that payment will impact your financing. Part of the latest Covid 19 relief package includes payments and protections for existing borrowers and renters, but what about those who are looking to buy? According to the IRS, here are a few things to know about how your stimulus impacts your upcoming mortgage. Stimulus Money Is Not Taxable Any funds you are qualified to receive are not taxable; this is important to know as you move forward … [Read More...]
Buying a home in another location far away can be challenging in terms of logistics as well as moving, but it becomes additionally harder for pet owners who may not be able to take their bigger animals with them right away. Oftentimes folks may have to prepare a newly-bought home for a pet, make multiple moving trips or might not be able to take the new pet to the location at all for a while. All of these situations can be frustrating and difficult for both the pet and owner. Some available solutions can make some sense depending on the situation. Family or Friends Ideally, if a person has a … [Read More...]
When you purchase a new home, escrow is a word that you will hear numerous times from different parties. There are several types of escrow accounts that will be established, and you may be wondering where your money will go when placed in an escrow account or how it is applied to your transaction. By taking time to learn more about the escrow process, you can be a more informed buyer. Your Initial Escrow Deposit Within a short period of time after your offer is accepted by the buyer, you will be required to make an escrow deposit to the title company. Typically, you will write a check for the … [Read More...]