New or Old House?
A lot of buyers think that a new house is the way to go but it's important to have some knowledge of quality and of the builder. New paint, carpet, doors, windows and cabinets are a quick and easy sell. But are the cabinets even level. I have seen cabinets in a $300,000 house that the dishes would ... more...

What is a Foreclosure?
A foreclosure is an action taken against a property owner by seizure of his/her real property. It can be for many reasons. The main cause is delinquent payments on a mortgage. The mortgage company or second and even third mortgage holders contact the owner, then the trustee (usually an attorney) to ... more...

Pricing your House to Sell
Most Sellers set their initial asking price at an amount somewhat higher than they are actually willing to accept, fully expecting a buyer to open the bidding with a lesser amount.While price is the most frequently negotiated item in any home sale, you may be able to creatively provide financial ... more...

Tax Assessment/Appraisal: How Do I Know What My Home is Worth?
If you are in the home buying or selling market, its important to understand the difference between tax assessment and appraisal value. Concentrate on the appraisal value because this determines your asking price.Understanding Tax AssessmentThe tax assessment is a tool local governments use to ... more...

What To Expect From Your House Appraisal
Having your house appraised can be a scary step in the moving process, especially if you dont know what to expect. Will your house pass muster or will they find some hidden defects and problems lurking in the basement and attic? Should you scrub the house clean?Dont worry this isnt a test of how ... more...

Real Estate Investment Requires A Team
I had a hard time at first with real estate investment. One of the reasons was that I tended to be a "lone wolf," trying to do too much myself. I've since learned that to really do well investing in real estate, you need to have a team of people you can trust and rely on. Here are some possible ... more...

Check The Appraisal Carefully To Avoid Being A Fraud Victim
There is a type of investor fraud in which an unsuspecting Real Estate investor believes he is buying a property worth a certain amount, when in reality the property is worth much less. This places the investor in a hopelessly upside down situation, owing more money than the property will ever be ... more...

Why You Need a Lender to Sell Your Home
Home sellers who are prepared to help buyers find financing will sell their homes faster, and for a larger selling price. Think about your potential buyers: some of them will have already arranged for financing, but many don't know how to buy a house. By offering financing options and being able to ... more...

Mechanic's Lien on Your House
In many places you can buy a house and a contractor can put a lien on it within 90 days of construction or delivery of materials. For example if a contractor fails to pay a subcontractor he/she can place a lien against your real estate.If you have windows installed or any kind of construction, ... more...

Real Estate Terms From Appraisals to Comps
When youre selling your home or other real property on your own, you dont have to know everything about the process. It does help to have a practical knowledge of the terms that come up during the process.Keep in mind, these arent intended as be all, end all, penultimate definitions. Theyre ... more...

Top Tips for Buying and Selling a Home
BuyersLooking for a home-Use Internet for overview of properties, communities, and schools. -Visit potential neighborhoods at different times of day. -Research price trends in communities and neighborhoods. -Consider resale prospects on home before you purchase.Get your new home inspected before ... more...

Don't Buy The Government Grant Guides From The Joker Or The Joke Will Be On You
Government grants are available on-line for free.Go to Firstgov.gov which also includes state grants and assistance. Then go to grants, fill in the brief questionaire and it does a search that narrows down what you want and what you qualify for.There are seemingly unlimited amounts of grants, funds ... more...

Boston Real Estate - Interest Rates and Inventory Must be Analyzed when Selling Your Boston Home
When selling your Boston home, its good practice to be aware of what similar homes in your neighborhood have recently sold for. Recent comparable sales are not only what a good Boston real estate agent should use for guidance when pricing your home, but also what a bank appraiser will use if and ... more...