Category Archives: Buyers

Should you Rent or Buy?

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Realty Executives

Over the last few years, home prices have dropped by as much as 50 percent. Unsold home inventories are still near record highs, and mortgage rates remain low. With the economy starting to turn around, there’s never been a better … Continue reading →

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Mortgage Options: ARM or Fixed-Rate?

Posted on March 5, 2012 by Realty Executives

Whether you’re buying your first home or refinancing your existing home, you have a host of financing options available.  But before you start talking about points, fees, and closing costs, you need to decide whether to choose a fixed-rate or … Continue reading →

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Is it Time to Stop Waiting?

Posted on February 16, 2012 by Realty Executives

Home values took a universal dive in 2008, but for most markets, it looks like the worst is behind us. While certain metropolitan areas continued to bleed in 2011 (some cities in Southern California saw a dip of more than … Continue reading →

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Top Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Realty Executives

Your first home purchase is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Here are some tips to limit the trauma and help you find the home of your dreams the first time around. 1. Set your budget The most important … Continue reading →

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How Much Home is Too Much?

Posted on February 6, 2012 by Realty Executives

You’ve found the home of your dreams. It’s expensive, but it’s beautiful, it has room to grow, and you can just squeak by if you’re careful–maybe. This is a common situation, and all too frequently, it ends poorly–just look at … Continue reading →

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Neighborhood Research 101

Posted on February 1, 2012 by Realty Executives

A home is the longest-term investment most people will ever make, and unless your home is on wheels, you’re not going anywhere. Choosing the right neighborhood is critical–and very personal. While there are a wealth of online tools for neighborhood … Continue reading →

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Home Inspection 101

Posted on January 31, 2012 by Realty Executives

A home’s history gives it character and charm, but also takes a toll. Over time, roofs sag, mortar cracks, and furnaces lose efficiency. Beyond this normal wear and tear, older homes can harbor mold, water damage, termites, or other structural … Continue reading →

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Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Posted on January 24, 2012 by Realty Executives

Your first home purchase is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Here are some tips to limit the trauma and help you find the home of your dreams the first time around. The most important step in selecting a … Continue reading →

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Going it Alone: Do You Need an Agent?

Posted on January 13, 2012 by Realty Executives

It’s 2012.  You can find nearly anything and anyone on the Internet. Do you really still need a to put an agent in the middle of your real estate transaction? What’s to stop you from finding a home online, going … Continue reading →

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Should you use a REALTOR© to find a rental?

Posted on January 10, 2012 by Realty Executives

While it’s possible to sell or buy a home without representation, everyone generally agrees it’s a bad idea. But what about renting a home? In Manhattan, Tokyo, London, and other densely-populated cities, finding an adequate apartment without representation is nearly … Continue reading →

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