Rental Property Inspections
Rental property inspections are conducted for a variety of reasons to assess the condition of the property in order to protect (1) the owner’s financial investment, (2) the physical property, and (3) tenants’ health and safety.
Writing a Successful Offer
When a new listing hits the market, it is commonplace for there to be a rush of interested buyers that result in multiple offers. It is prudent to research and consider which of these ideas you can implement before you find the home; it is much better to have more time to make these decisions.
“Mise en Place” for Home Buying
An excellent meal includes fresh, good food, the right ingredients, superb preparation, and execution. Whether you are following a recipe or doing it from memory, each step is important and affects the outcome. The same is true for buying a home.
How long do I have to keep this stuff?
The included table will give you an indication on how long certain documents related to your home need to be kept according to best practices of tax professionals.
Say No to FSBO
Before embarking on the sale of your home by yourself, talk to a real estate professional or possibly two, to get as much information as possible to make an informed decision. Your objective should be to maximize the proceeds from the sale.
Transferring Property Prior to Death
Even though the mechanics of transferring title to a property is simple, there are many things to consider for both the person giving the property and the one receiving it. Consult an attorney and tax professional to determine the best informed decision available.
Time to Cancel Mortgage Insurance?
When buying a home, purchasers may not have enough resources for a large down payment. It is understandable to use the best mortgage available to buy the home. The next goal should be to manage the mortgage to lower the overall costs.
Rental Home Investments
Rental homes - whether they be single-family detached properties, condos, or multi-unit properties - share many of the same benefits. Most people instinctively understand many of the working parts because they are the same as their home. The service providers for a home would be the same for a rental home.
Moving UP or DOWN
Like any other big change in life, it is recommended that you take your time to consider the possible alternatives and outcomes. Your real estate professional can provide information such as what your home is worth, what you will net from a sale as well as, alternative properties for your next stage in life.
Pre-Listing Inspections
For the small investment in the pre-listing inspection, the benefits are well worth the expense. You and potential buyers will have a better idea of the condition of your property and know what to expect. You can present the property in a transparent way that will build confidence with the buyer.
Buyer’s Closing Costs
Buyer's closing costs can range between two to five percent of the sales price. The real estate agents should be able to give you an estimate of what a buyer can expect. The most accurate estimate will come from the lender at the time the loan application is made.
Tax Benefits of Owning a Home
Banks are concerned about making loans that will be repaid not about making loans that are tax deductible for homeowners. It is good business for the bank but how is the homeowner supposed to know?