The quick answer: You bet! With record low interest rates, there are a lot of us out there refinancing or purchasing a home. However, so many are wowed by the interest rate and the long term savings that we do not look at the fees charged at closing to get the loan. If lenders are saving the borrower money, they have to make up the profits somewhere and that could be in the fees. This video explains how you should compare and negotiate to get your best deal.
I’m one that really enjoys DIY, or “Do it Yourself” projects around the home. For instance, I’ve changed many a light fixture and painted many rooms in our home. I get real satisfaction from seeing a job well done, and knowing I did it myself. However, a $20 light fixture is dramatically different than attempting making decisions in regards to your largest financial asset without counsel. That’s something I definitely would not recommend at all. Read the rest…
With mortgage rates at all time lows, buyers are in the driver’s seat when it comes to getting a great deal. Or are they? This video from Bankrate.com shows how to compare offers to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible and what to look for. Check it out! Read the rest…
I’m sure many of you might find this post a bit odd, coming from me. However, I want all potential clients to have information and lots of it. It’s the only way to make an educated decision, especially with your largest financial investment. Check out this video on how to find a great real estate agent to work for you.
Everyone’s talking about the housing crisis being a near financial windfall for buyers these days. However, the question remains “Is it right for YOU?” While it could be the time to take advantage of a housing market that’s not nearly as high priced as it once was, it could be the wrong decision personally. I always advise clients that if their plans have them selling within three years of making the purchase, renting is a wiser choice. Read the rest…
One quick answer…YOU BET! Having a good home inspector can literally save you thousands of dollars, especially if they find something very wrong with the property you’re potentially buying. It’s not uncommon for home inspectors to discover a house has substantial foundation problems that could cost a few thousand to repair. Read the rest…
The excitement of owning your first home is a feeling you won’t soon forget. There are a lot of firsts we will always remember in our lifetimes: our first kiss, first car, first love…and our first home. But what’s involved in making a wise first home decision? CNN Money Editor and author Gerri Willis has some great tips in this video.
You see the late night infomercials touting “EASY PROFITS!” But if it was that easy, wouldn’t everyone be doing it? Time to blow away the smoke and mirrors to the truth on short sales, folks. It’s a time consuming process that is a difficult (and not always successful) method to purchasing a home with a substantial discount. Read the rest…
Has the Columbia, South Carolina housing market fully rebounded or is it still in a slump? How does one know when things are improving? According to bankrate.com, there are two key indicators: 1) a decreasing unemployment rate, which shows residents of the area are going to work and companies are confident in their abilities to remain profitable and 2) a decreasing number of properties that remain unsold on market.
Well, here I go again, on another political rant. (At least I warned you.) As a result of the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac fiasco, there has been a lawsuit settlement reached between the NY Attorney General, the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. While the proposed law seems good on the surface (it’s meant to protect us, right?), there are some serious flaws that will hurt borrowers, sellers, lenders and real estate agents. It will most likely hinder efforts to sell property in the future. Read the rest…
Well, here I go again, on another political rant. (At least I warned you.) As a result of the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac fiasco, there has been a lawsuit settlement reached between the NY Attorney General, the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. While the proposed law seems good on the surface (it’s meant to protect us, right?), there are some serious flaws that will hurt borrowers, sellers, lenders and real estate agents. It will most likely hinder efforts to sell property in the future. 
