Young families often look for many different things in a home than older couples with teenagers or those with an empty nest may look at. Many real estate agents will tell their clients to stage a home so that it appeals to those who are most likely going to be interested in buying it. For…
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Buying a Foreclosure: 5 Things to Know
Buying a property out of foreclosure can be a very smart move, financially. But it can also be complicated, expensive, and stressful. Here are 5 things to keep in mind before you take a first step in that direction: Cash or Preapproval Required Buying a house that has been returned to the lender through foreclosure…
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Know Your Debt-to-Income Ratio
When you are filling out a mortgage application, the lender will be asking you for specific financial information. One of the reasons they ask for this information is to enable the underwriter to calculate your debt to income ratio. This ratio is what most mortgage lenders use to determine the level of risk they are…
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Can You Get Money for Your Rent-Stabilized Apartment?
By Chereen James Change is swiftly flowing though the housing landscape of New York. New luxury buildings are being erected all over the City, and the demand for housing pushes low-income renters and owners to the outskirts and even out of the City, making way for higher-income earners and leading to a hefty rent spike.…
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Understanding Property Taxes
When budgeting to buy a home, there are more costs to consider other than your mortgage payment. While you should be able to comfortably afford your monthly obligation, make sure to plan for factors such as maintenance, insurance and property taxes. Depending on where you live, these expenses can be substantial. Your property tax dollars…
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