The Homeowner’s Advice Blog

If you are disappointed to find that someone else has already submitted a contract on your dream house, you may want to consider making a backup offer. The housing market has been tight everywhere in recent months, so discuss this option with your real estate agent if you really love the house. Backup offers don’t always work […]

You’ve searched and searched, finding nothing that suits, when suddenly you’ve found not one, but two homes that would be perfect. What to do? First, remember that your housing market may demand that you come to a decision quickly. You don’t want your dream home to get away. Be prepared to make a prompt, reasonable […]

A good first step to buying a new home is to prioritize the amenities you really need the most. Be prepared to compromise a bit. Dreams of marble counter tops, gleaming hardwood floors and a pool in the backyard are great, but be careful to prioritize your real NEEDS over the WANTS. Separating the two […]

The emotional and financial stakes are high when purchasing a home, but rewards can be, too. There are intangibles that are tough to measure, such as stability and pride of ownership. However, there are other substantial benefits that are important to consider. When considering purchasing a home, be sure to look for a house that […]

Buying a first home can be challenging and a little intimidating. Should you grab the first house that you can afford, or is it better to just keep renting? Although there is a steep learning curve if you hope to become a homeowner for the first time, some smart planning can make the process easier […]

Buying a home may be the largest single purchase of your life and the process can be daunting. Organize your plans and expectations in the following order to simplify and smooth your way into home ownership. Set Your Priorities Whether you are a first timer or a repeat homebuyer, this is an emotional and financial […]

When closing is finally complete and the keys to your new home are in your hand, there are a number of things you will want to do to make your move as smooth as possible. If your schedule allows, plan on a day or more to get your new place ready before the boxes actually […]

A foreclosed property is one where the owner has been unable to meet monthly mortgages payments and the property is now owned by the bank. A foreclosed home is also referred to as an REO, or a Real Estate Owned property. Although some REOs may be vacant or need repairs, they frequently look just like […]

A real estate agent is a professional in a field where most buyers and sellers are novices. This is very likely the largest single purchase you will ever make. After all, how often do you drop a quarter of a million dollars or more on a shopping spree? Home buying and selling is full of […]

Purchasing a home involves a lot of money, many steps, and many documents. Because the transaction is complex, buyers and sellers do not exchange money directly with each other, but through a neutral third party in an escrow account. The escrow period begins when the seller accepts the buyer’s offer and the buyer puts down […]