Polybutylene? – A Buyer’s Concern

Widely used from around 1978 to 1995, polybutylene water supply pipes were once seen as the pipes of the future due to their ease of installation and low cost. Polybutylene is a form of plastic resin that was typically manufactured in a grey or white color with a dull finish and is estimated to have […]

Earnest Money & New Construction

Before purchasing any home it is customary for the buyer to provide earnest money as a sign of good faith towards their intention to complete the purchase. In essence this shows the seller that the buyer is serious and they’re willing to deposit money as a declaration of this intent. This earnest money deposit should […]

Utilizing the Internet

Statistically anywhere from 75% – 90+% of buyers use the internet when looking for new homes. In this day and age that shouldn’t come as a surprise with how reliant all consumers have become in using online technology. However, are buyers utilizing the internet effectively?

One of the biggest reasons to search for a home […]

The REALTOR© Difference

Much of the time the term REALTORĀ© is used in a general sense to denote a real estate licensee. However, only about half of all licensed real estate agents are REALTORSĀ©. In order to become a REALTORĀ© a real estate professional must distinguish themselves by learning and voluntarily agreeing to be bound by professional Standards […]

Condominiums In Danger of Losing FHA Eligibility

A mandate issued in 2009 by the Federal Housing Administration required that all condominium projects approved for FHA guaranteed loans and refinancing prior to 2007 submit additional documentation by December 7, 2010 in order to remain FHA eligible. This requirement aims to greatly improve the financial stability of these condo projects by guaranteeing adequate budgets […]

Buying Surge Upcoming?

Americans are shrewdly evaluating the current housing market and a recent poll conducted by Fannie Mae shows increased awareness of now being a good time for a home purchase. A total of 70% of respondents believe it is a good time to buy a home, which is up from 64% in January of this year. […]

10 Reasons To Buy a Home Now

The following is an excerpt from Brett Arends of The Wall Street Journal on September 16th:

Why is now a great time to buy? Here are 10 reasons:

1. You can get a good deal. Prices are down 30 percent on average. They’re at a level that makes sense for people’s income. 2. Mortgages are […]

Find the Best Value

Getting a good value is rightfully on the mind of every buyer, especially in today’s market. However, make sure value is defined as more than just the lowest price. Each buyer should do their due diligence to compare all properties as closely as possible based upon the price, condition, and desirability for your needs. Price […]

One Way to Secure the Home You Want

If you’re a buyer in today’s market there are many home options available. However, when you do find the home you’ve been looking for how do you go about making sure your offer is accepted? One somewhat unconventional manner that has seen growing popularity is to appeal directly to the seller, often in the form […]

Closing Deadline Extended for Tax Credit

It came down to the last day, but Congress did finally pass the Home Buyer Assistance and Improvement Act. Within this bill lies a provision for extending the closing deadline of the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit from the original date of June 30th to now September 30th. In order to receive this credit home […]