Five Common First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes

They don’t ask enough questions of their lender and miss out on the best deal.  They don’t act quickly enough to make a decision and someone else buys the house.  They don’t find the right agent whose willing to help them through the homebuying...

Seven Reasons to Own Your Own Home

Tax breaks. The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, property taxes you, pay, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home. Gains. Over last five years (1998-2002) national home prices have increased at an average of...

How Big A Mortgage Can I Afford?

Not only does owning a home give you a haven for yourself and your family, it makes great financial sense, too.  This calculation assumes a 28-percent income tax bracket. If your bracket is higher, your savings will be too.  Rent:...

Ten Steps to Prepare for Home Ownership

Decide how much home you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between 2 and 3 times your gross income. Develop a wish list of what you’d like your home to have. Then prioritize the features on your list. Select three or four...

Five Reasons You Need a Real Estate Agent

A real estate transaction is complicated. In most cases, buying or selling a home requires disclosure forms, inspection reports, mortgage documents, insurance policies, deeds, and multi-page government-mandated settlement statements. A knowledgeable guide through this...

The Pros and Cons of Condos

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in most areas. But consider these facts before you buy.  Storage. Some condos have storage lockers, but usually there are no attics or basements to hold extra belongs.  Outdoor...