5 Questions To Ask Yourself When Shopping For The Best Loan

1. How long will I own this property?
(The shorter the stay the more you should search for minimal closing costs at the cost of a slightly higher rate).

2. Is there a type of loan that makes me feel most comfortable?
Some people want to know that their payment (P&I) will never change (fixed rate).

3. Does it matter to me who services the loan (where and to what group am I making my monthly payment)?

4. If given the choice, do I want to do my own escrow accounts or would I prefer the lender handle this matter?

5. Do I want a "brand name" lender (one I know) or am I willing to try a company that's new to me?

7 Questions A Buyer Should Ask An Agent Prior To Making Their Agent Selection

 1. What are your company's resources, support staff and network affiliation?


2. What is your company's history and track record in helping buyers? (ex: How
many buyers did your company serve last year?)


3. What checklists and systems does the agent have to help you, the buyer, stay
on track?


4. Does the agent have information to help you find the best lender, including the
"Home Loan Application Checklist" and "14 General Questions To Ask All
Lenders".


5. Is the agent offering you a choice between customer and client level service?


6. Is the agent offering traditional level service only or do they have an upgraded
home buying system?


7. Does your agent appear trustworthy, caring and committed to helping you reach your goals?



The above checklist is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for legal, tax or other professional assistance.

4 Guidelines For Every Homeowner Trying To Fix-Up Their Property To Sell

1. Cost doesn't equal value.
    If you finished off your basement six months ago for twelve thousand dollars, said improvement doesn't necessarily add twelve thousand dollars of value in the eyes of the buyer.

2. Put your money where buyers will see it.
    Examples of good returns might be a fresh coat of paint and sprucing up your front door and entry way. Don’t expect to get as good a return on insulation or new wiring.

3. Don’t over improve!
    The addition of a fifth bedroom to a house in a subdivision of 3-4 bedroom homes may not give you the return you would like. Use typical improvements for your area as a guide.

4. Most quality home improvements cause a property to sell quicker but not necessarily for more money.
   A timely sale will lessen the carrying costs and stress. Don’t underestimate the overall value of "smart" improvements.


The above checklist is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for legal, tax or other professional assistance.

4 Characteristics Of Value Every Seller Should Remember

1. DEMAND

Demand is in the eye of the beholder. It varies from person to person. The demand for a particular piece of real estate changes as the wants of each individual change.

2. UTILITY

In order for real estate to have value it must have usefulness or utility.
Usefulness creates a desire for possession and has the power to give satisfaction. Will the typical buyer in the marketplace have their needs met by purchasing your home?

3. SCARCITY

In order for real estate to be of value it must be relatively scarce. If too many houses like yours are for sale, it will negatively impact the value of your home.


4. PURCHASING POWER

Purchasing power is created by desire. Can the buyer who desires the property afford the property? The more people that can afford the property, the better.




The above checklist is for informational purposes only & is not a substitute for legal, tax or other professional assistance