Short Sales
When does foreclosure begin? Lenders will initiate foreclosure proceedings when borrowers become delinquent in their mortgage obligations, usually after three [...]
Selling at a Loss
Can a home seller sell a home for less than its mortgage? Yes, in some case you can sell your [...]
Seller Financing
What is seller financing? Seller financing is when a seller helps to finance a real estate transaction by taking back [...]
Property Taxes
Where can I learn more about appealing my property taxes? Contact your local tax assessor's office to see what procedures [...]
Pricing the House to Sell
What is the difference between list and sales prices? The list price is how much a house is advertised for [...]
Negotiating
Is there a secret to good negotiating? There are several cardinal rules to negotiating effectively. One is do your homework, [...]
Disclosure
Whose obligation is it to disclose pertinent information about a property? In most states, it is the seller, but obligations [...]
Common Q&A About Selling Your Home
Should I add on or buy a bigger home? Consider these questions before making a choice between adding on to [...]
Appraisals & Market Value
What is the difference between market value and appraised value? The appraised value of a house is a certified appraiser's [...]
Working With a Real Estate Agent
Can I use an agent for a new home? Yes, however buyers should be aware of the differences inherent in [...]
What You Can Afford
How much does my real estate agent need to know? Real estate agents would say that the more you tell [...]
Tax Considerations
Where do I get information on IRS publications? The Internal Revenue Service publishes a number of real estate publications. They [...]
Property Taxes
Are taxes on second homes deductible? Mortgage interest and property taxes are deductible on a second home if you itemize. [...]
Making an Offer
Can you buy homes below market? While a typical buyer may look at five to 10 homes before making an [...]
Home Inspections & Warranties
Do I need a home inspection? Yes. Buying a home "as is" is a risky proposition. Major repairs on homes [...]
Foreclosures
Do you have to buy HUD homes through a realty agent? You can only purchase a U.S. Department of Housing [...]
Finding the Right Home
What are the pros and cons of adding on or buying new? Before making a choice between adding on to [...]
Escrow & Closing Costs
How can I save on closing costs? Studies show that the closing costs, which can average 2 to 3 percent [...]
Appraisals & Market Value
What is the return on new versus previously owned homes? Buying into a new-home community may seem riskier than purchasing [...]
