New Home Buyer? Don’t Make These 3 Common Mistakes!

Looking for your new home can feel like a daunting task, especially if it's your first time going through the home buying process.  Sometimes, all of the choices may feel overwhelming. You want to make the best decision for yourself and your family.  Here's a quick list of three common pitfalls that some home buyers experience: Choosing to Skip the Inspection A home inspection is a necessity. This is your opportunity for a professional to uncover any potential problems in a property that you cannot see. Or even something that you might not have known to check. Your new home…
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When Is the Right Time to Buy Your First Home? Use This Easy 4 Point Checklist

Are you growing tired of renting? Or perhaps you've recently graduated from college and are looking to set down some roots? Whatever the case, buying your first home is an exciting prospect. Let's take a look at a quick and easy four-point checklist that you can use to determine if you are ready to buy your first home. #1: Is Your Credit In Good Shape? How is your overall financial health? Once you have your down payment saved up, you should turn your attention to your credit rating. If you are going to borrow a mortgage to help cover the…
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Down Payments 101: Is It Worth It to Put More Than 20 Percent Down?

Are you thinking of buying a new home this spring or summer? If so, you're not alone. Many thousands of individuals and families alike will become homeowners this year. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned veteran of the housing market, you probably know there are significant choices to make. One of the big decisions you will have to ponder is how much you want to invest in your down payment. With that in mind, let's try to answer the question of whether or not it is worth it to put more than 20 percent of the home's price…
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Curious About Homeowners’ Association (HOA) Fees? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you are thinking of buying a condominium or a home that is part of a planned community, you have likely come across the term "homeowners' association" or HOA. In short, the HOA is a coalition of local homeowners who have banded together to manage the needs of the local community. Let's explore the concept of the homeowners' association, why they charge fees and what you can expect from your HOA if you buy a home that is part of one. HOA Fees Are Meant To Make Things Easier HOA fees are meant to make your life easier. Common sense…
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