What are your goals in life? Any plans you may have that you really want to put into action? If Real Estate is one of your goals that you want to conquer, excellent. Some people don't know where to start. "Do I want to buy?", "Do I want to sell?", "Should I do this, or should I do that?" Don't bang your head against the wall trying to figure this out. Sit down, and breathe. The beauty of Real Estate is this: You have options. Let's take a look at a few.
Should I Buy? : Most people, if not all, want to make that big purchase that will change their lives, buying a house. We all would like to pay straight cash on property and not worry about paying more afterwards, but what if you can't? No worries. Bank Loans are usually the number one option. With a low interest rate, those that want to buy, can buy quickly. Private Lenders are another option. Your credit and monthly income plays a big role into what type of loan you may qualify for: Conventional, FHA, FNMA, GNMA, VA Loans, etc. Other loans to think about: Interest-only Loans, USDA Loans, Fixed Rate, Adjustable-Rate Mortgage, Jumbo Loans, etc. Talk to a Real Estate Professional and/or a few lenders about these loans and what may work best for you. Also, you may want to research, or ask about programs that could help you with making a down payment on the home. First time home buyers can apply for down payment assistance programs.
Should I Sell? : Are you ready to sell? Are you starting a family and you need more space? Do you need to downsize? Are you relocating? Are you going through a divorce and just want to sell the property so you can move on? These are just a few questions and situations that sellers face all the time. One thing is for sure: Only the seller knows when they're ready to sell. The real question is, How will they sell their property? Some sellers...
FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER'S CHECKLIST
Preparation is key. Making sure that you have things in order so you can step in to your next position as a homeowner will help you become better prepared during the whole process. Below is a list of steps every first-time home buyer should consider in their search.
STEP 1- MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MAKE THE MOVE
- Do you have a stable job?
- Do you plan to live in the same location for at least the next 5-10 years?
- Are you prepared to accept the responsibilities of homeownership?
STEP 2- CREATE A WISH LIST
Rank what is most important to you:
Location: Suburbs, City, or Country
- Size: How many bedrooms/bathrooms? A yard?
- School District
- Public Transportation
- Commute Distance/Time
- Rental Income Opportunity(investment property)
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When it comes to energy efficiency, look for smart features and expertise to help you save energy and money and add value to your home.
1. Begin with a Right-Sized Home.
If the home you buy is simply too large for you or your family’s needs or plans, you stand a good chance of wasting energy through excessive heating and cooling costs. If it’s too small, you’ll feel cramped and uncomfortable. It’s a big investment, so seek balance and buy it “right” from the outset.
2. Purchase Energy Star Appliances Such as Your TV, Dishwasher, Washer and Dryer, and Microwave.
And especially the refrigerator, as it alone contributes about 10 percent of the energy use in a home. Also, unplug electronics not in use or turn off power strips to avoid phantom charges.
3. Install Efficient Lighting Such as Compact Fluorescent (CLF) or LED Bulbs in Every Fixture.
Lighting accounts for about 6 percent of an energy bill each year.
4. Get an Energy Audit and Have Tests Performed to Identify Ways of Improving Your Efficiency.
You can always upgrade your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system as well as your thermal envelope, which includes insulation, windows, and doors and the seals or weather stripping around them. Visit energy.gov/energytips for more tips.
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