Looking at Foreclosed Homes for Sale? Here are Few Things to Consider…
In today’s real estate market, many potential buyers run across short sale homes and houses close to foreclosure. Some homes have already been foreclosed and are now for sale by financial institutions that own them. While this leaves some potential buyers leery, it is potentially a good opportunity to find larger properties with plenty of space and amenities. Property Neglect Oftentimes, homes that have gone through foreclosure or are on the verge of it, are not in top condition. Small repairs have been neglected leaving potential buyers to wonder what else may be wrong with it. A careful walk-through with a home inspector would be helpful. Making a list of what needs to be fixed will help lessen the surprises after purchasing the property. The home’s...
Read MoreFall Has Arrived! Prep Your Home Now for Colder Temps
It’s the most wonderful time of the year…. for lovers of the season of fall! Tis the season for vibrant reds, golden yellows, vivid oranges, pumpkins, and refreshingly cool temps. It also means winter isn’t far away. Following are some small projects that can be completed during the mild temperatures that could save money and trouble during the winter months: Don’t ignore rust spots If iron doors, railings, or fences show signs of rust, correct the problems as soon as you can; otherwise, things will likely worsen over the winter. Click here for instructions on how to repair rust spots. Prep Your Landscape Now for Spring Grass roots keep growing until the ground gets down to around 40 degrees; so this is a good time to feed them. Apply a...
Read MoreHome Energy Savers At No Cost To You!
Home Energy Savers At No Cost To You! We have learned from our teachers that energy is neither created nor destroyed. But, this doesn’t mean that it is free! It’s never a bad time to learn how to conserve energy, which will in turn save you some money. There are many things you can do to lower your electric bill; here are few: Turn off the stereo, television, lights and such when you leave the room or if they are not in use. Turn off computer monitor or shut down your computer when not in use. Just like your television, your computer monitor consumes energy. Also, most tv’s and monitor’s have an energy savings mode that can save you money as well. Maximize the use of your dishwasher by fully loading them. You actually consume the same...
Read MorePainting? Pay Attention to the Type of Paint You’re Using:
Don’t pass up buying a home because it requires cosmetic repairs! FHA offers the 203k mortgage program that provides funds for repairs and/or upgrades. Not to be confused with FHA’s full 203k program, a Streamlined 203k loan eliminates much of the paperwork and simplifies the process to obtain rehab funds. The primary function of the streamline 203k is to aid with those cosmetic or minor repairs One “repair” that is allowed is paint. What kind of paint is best for each room? There’s a basic rule of thumb to follow when choosing paint sheens: The higher the sheen, the higher the shine — and the higher the shine, the more durable it will be. Flat paint has no shine; high-gloss is all shine. In between are eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, each...
Read MoreNeed a Roofing Contractor? Here are Some Questions to Ask:
If you stay in a home for any length of time, you eventually find yourself needing a new roof or roof repair. When the time comes, it’s a good idea to seek out a few bids from different contractors . When speaking with the contractors, you may want to ask the following questions: How Much Experience Do You Have? A more experienced roofing contractor might be your best bet. Not only will they have more years of roofing experience,but they may also know the regional climate and weather conditions better and what roofing materials are better to use. A company that does shoddy work, cuts corners, or is consistently not delivering on time and within budget is not likely to last long in one area, so a company that has a long-standing history in the same area may...
Read MoreWhat is a 203k Mortgage and is it for Me?
You’ve looked at a home that seems to be in the perfect location for you, great schools for the kids, and the price is right. But… it seems to need a little (or a lot) of work. A 203k mortgage may be exactly what you need! You will want to have the home inspected. A home inspector will help you evaluate the condition of the home, including the roof. A 203k loan is an FHA product. Standard FHA loans have strict guidelines about the condition of the home you’re buying. The home has to get an inspector’s approval for livability and the health and safety of the occupants, including things such as working windows, unbroken stairs, working appliances and a working heating system. If the home you want to buy doesn’t meet FHA standards and you still...
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