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Over the centuries, real estate investing has been a very lucrative endeavor. Even non-speculating homeowners who have owned and maintained investment properties for several years have achieved double and triple-digit investment returns. Private residence values have risen substantially, although there have been notable dips in recent history. According to a July 2022 article in Realtor®…

Purchasing a first home is an exciting time. The saving, researching, comparing, and final closing, followed by the excitement of the move-in, are experiences first-time homebuyers long remember. However, it is helpful for first-time buyers to exercise extreme caution with each step of the process. Selecting a professional Realtor in advance to help advise and…

Home appraisals performed by professionally certified appraisers are required in most real estate transactions and mortgage refinances. When a lender is involved in loans that use a property as collateral, they order an appraisal to ensure the property meets or exceeds the loan amount. Appraisals protect the lender in case of subsequent default by the…

Selling a home and achieving the best possible return demands extensive market knowledge. It also requires the ability to market your home to the broadest range of buyers with savvy and unemotional negotiating skills. In addition, selling a home necessitates understanding all legalities and a high degree of objectivity. An experienced, proven real estate professional…

Historically, real estate investing is a successful strategy for investors. However, as with any investment, there are risks. Real estate investing requires considerable preparation and research. Here are some essential steps to improving your chances of success when beginning to invest in real estate. Do the Research Before buying an investment property, perform due diligence…

Professional home inspections are intended to provide peace of mind for prospective buyers by ensuring the structure is sound and that it will need no significant repairs soon after the sale closes. Prospective buyers have three inspection options: Add an inspection contingency to the offer. If a significant problem is found that the seller chooses…

FICO scores, commonly called credit scores, are a statistical gauge of an individual’s ability to repay a loan. Your credit score is a key consideration in any loan process. It is the primary factor lenders use to determine how much they will loan a borrower and the interest rate. In some instances, a low credit…

Whether the real estate market is hot or cold, prospective homebuyers need the guidance of a real estate professional. Together you can create a homebuying plan that will help you avoid selecting the wrong home and keep you from spending more than necessary. Sometimes, the excitement and frustrations created by the competition for buying a…

The house hunt seems to be reaching its end, a homeowner has finally accepted your offer! But now what? Has the process ended, and is it time to plan the move? While an offer acceptance is a positive step toward homeownership, certain hurdles must be cleared before completing the process. Some of the steps depend…

When purchasing a home, buyers are responsible for paying closing costs and prepaids. The difference between the two can often be confusing, especially since they are paid when closing on a home purchase. Here’s what you need to know so you’re prepared for closing day. Closing Costs vs. Prepaids: What’s the Difference? You might hear…