Looking for your new home can feel like a daunting task, especially if it's your first time going through the home buying process. Sometimes, all of the choices may feel overwhelming. You want to make the best decision for yourself and your family. Here's a quick list of three common pitfalls that some home buyers experience: Choosing to Skip the Inspection A home inspection is a necessity. This is your opportunity for a professional to uncover any potential problems in a property that you cannot see. Or even something that you might not have known to check. Your new home is likely … [Read More...]
Last week's economic releases included readings on inflation, construction spending and private and public- sector payrolls. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and first-time jobless claims were also posted. Inflation Meets Fed Goal, Construction Spending Lower March inflation reached a year-over-year rate of two percent, which is the Federal Reserve's goal for inflation. Inflation rose by 0.20 percent in March to 0.40 percent; analysts expected inflation to rise 0.50 percent. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, met expectations with 0.20 percent growth. … [Read More...]
The closing process for a home purchase is an exciting time. The home is finished, the purchase is ready to be finalized and it's almost time to move in. The final steps of the closing process ensures both parties are able to meet their requirements and all the paperwork is in place and verified. The Key Players There are actually four parties involved in a typical closing: the buyer, the seller, the bank or lender financing the purchase, and the escrow agent. Each has an important role in making sure the closing happens effectively and efficiently. As is common with most purchases, the buyer … [Read More...]
Buying a new home is exciting. Buying a brand new home can be even more so with the realization of being the first owner and possibly being able to choose your own layout and finishes. The prospect of owning new construction is definitely exciting, but it doesn't come without its own set of questions. If you're in the market for a new home, and considering new construction, make note of the questions below when you begin your property search. What Are The Long Term Plans For The Community? Unless you're looking at custom homes on acreage, it's likely new construction in your area will be … [Read More...]
For many Americans, retirement age is fast approaching or already here: Baby Boomers account for nearly 75 million individuals in the United States. Retirement can present a lot of opportunities, especially when it comes to relaxation, activities, and the enjoyment of life with those of a similar age. More and more Americans are looking to 55+ communities to fulfill those wants and needs. Active Adult Communities 55+ communities, also known as an active adult or age-restricted communities, are becoming increasingly popular throughout the U.S. because of what they offer and can provide. … [Read More...]
Reality TV shows have inspired people to flip houses for profit. They make it look fun, easy and the type of business anyone with some capital can get into. Every once in a while, house-flipping episodes show an underperforming sale and a financial loss. That is why people in the flipping business need a cushion in case things don’t pan out. This brings us to a slightly different approach. Some speculators start out flipping land. Yes, that’s right. Land. Flipping Land Can Be Less Risky Than Homes Rough land can be far less expensive to invest in than blighted homes. There are also … [Read More...]
