How much is a home worth? The simple answer is that a home is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. But most valuations begin with the basics to create a baseline price: the age of a home, its square footage, lot size, neighborhood and previously assessed value. Obtaining a quick, ballpark figure…
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Buying a Short Sale House
It seems like many people have heard the term “short sale,” but few know what it really is. If the idea of pursuing a short sale house intrigues you, you’re not alone. Short sales can result in bargains for buyers, but the process takes patience. The personal financial website, Bankrate, defines a short sale this…
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What Kinds of Property Deeds Are There?
By Susan M. Keenan The legal documents used to transfer titles to real estate are referred to as property deeds. The names of the legal owners to the real estate are placed directly onto the property deeds. Each time a piece of real estate is sold, a new property deed must be issued. The two…
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Home Prices Are Dropping: How Far Are They Falling
Home buyers pinching their pennies should rejoice: Existing-home prices are continuing to drop. Sorry, sellers! The median price of an existing home (i.e. one that has previously been lived in) fell 0.24% from September to hit $247,000 in October, according to the most recent National Association of Realtors® report. And as cash-strapped would-be buyers are…
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3 Ways That a Reverse Mortgage Can Transform Your Retirement
Are you a retired individual looking for ways to increase your financial security? If so, you may have heard of a home equity conversion mortgage, more commonly known as a reverse mortgage. Used correctly, this is one of the most effective financial products for retirees who own their home. Let’s explore three ways that a…
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