Category: Buying
Meet Our Newest Agent!
Cydni Potter, Buyer Specialist Cydni spent most of her life in Chicago before moving to Nevada briefly post high school. Wanting to be closer to family, Cydni found her way back to Illinois and primarily worked in the service industry before exploring a career in real estate. Cydni was looking for financial freedom and a... Read More
What is Considered a Fixture When Selling a House?
A dining room chandelier — the crown jewel of your home — convinced potential buyers to write an offer because they fell in love with it. Hey, wait a minute! You’re only selling the house, not the chandelier, and don’t want to leave your treasured heirloom behind. But, if it’s considered a fixture when selling a house, the buyer could be correct in thinking your gem should glisten over their future family dinners. Read More
What Is a FICO Score and How Is It Determined?
Successfully buying a home hinges on a bunch of numbers, from home prices to mortgage rates. And there’s a lesser-known figure that can make all the difference when realizing your homeownership dreams: your FICO score. Whenever you want to make a big purchase, like a home, the lender will pull your FICO score, a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness and is akin to a financial compass in the housing market. This number ranges from 300 to 850 and determines whether you’re approved for a loan, your interest rate, and your mortgage terms. Read More
Is Your House the Top Thing on a Buyer’s Wish List this Holiday Season?
This time every year, homeowners who are planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait until after the holidays? Some sellers with homes already on the market may even remove their listing until the new year. But the truth is, many buyers want to purchase a home for the holidays, and your house might be just what they’re looking for. Read More
Can I Buy a House With Student Loan Debt?
Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get a mortgage with student loans will depend on the amount of debt you have and what your personal financial situation looks like, including factors like your income, savings and credit score. Read More
How To Get a Loan for a New-Construction Home: What Homebuyers Need To Know
If you’re thinking of buying a brand-new home, you might be wondering if securing a mortgage will differ from one for a previously owned property. While much of the financing works the same for homes both new and old, there are a few subtle differences when you purchase new construction. Specifically, there are a few extra steps required to lock down a loan for a new-construction home, making it important for homebuyers to understand what is expected of them—and when. Here’s what you need to know about getting a loan for a new-construction home—as well as what questions to ask—to keep you on the right path all the way to closing. Read More
How VA Loans Can Help Make Homeownership Dreams Come True
For more than 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you care about has served in the military, it’s essential to learn about this program and its advantages. Here are some important things to know about VA loans before you buy a home. Read More
Thinking About Using Your 401(k) To Buy a Home?
Are you dreaming of buying your own home and wondering about how you’ll save for a down payment? You’re not alone. Some people think about tapping into their 401(k) savings to make it happen. But before you decide to dip into your retirement to buy a home, be sure to consider all possible alternatives and talk with a financial expert. Here’s why. Read More
What Are Accessory Dwelling Units and How Can They Benefit You?
Maybe you’re in the market for a home and are having a hard time finding the right one that fits your budget. Or perhaps you’re already a homeowner in need of extra income or a place for loved ones. Whether as a potential homebuyer or a homeowner with changing needs, accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, may be able to help you reach your goals. Read More
What Is Cap Rate in Real Estate? How Much You’ll Earn On an Investment
Cap rate, or capitalization rate, is the ratio of a property’s net income to its purchase price. It’s an essential number for gauging a property’s rental income potential. Many new real estate investors, for instance, assume that as long as their renters are paying more than their mortgage on the property, they’re golden. But that’s not the case. You also have to factor in your investment dollars, taxes, and other variables. That’s what cap rate does in one fell swoop. Read More