Category Archives: Homeowners and Sellers

What does the New Obama Housing Plan Mean to You?

Posted on February 2, 2012 by Realty Executives

On Wednesday, February 1, President Obama presented a series of housing proposals. The primary proposal aimed at making mortgage payments more affordable for existing homeowners–particularly those struggling with underwater mortgages. It’s still a long way from approval, but if the … Continue reading →

Posted in Finance, Foreclosures & Short Sales, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged credit rating, credit score, FICO, foreclosures, loan under water, refi, refininacing, underwater mortgage, upside-down | Comments Off

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 →

Posted in Buyers, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged hiting a contractor, home appraisal, home inspection, homebuying, walkthroughs | 1 Comment

Selling an Underwater Mortgage

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Realty Executives

If you put less than 15% down on a recent purchase, there’s a good chance that you owe more than your property’s current value. It’s a tough spot to be in—and tougher if you want to sell. But despite the … Continue reading →

Posted in Finance, Foreclosures & Short Sales, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged home improvement, mortgage, negative equity, short sale, under water, underwater | Comments Off

Get the Most from Homeowners Insurance

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Realty Executives

A house is not just your biggest investment–it’s your home. Homes provide safety, security, and continuity, and no one wants to think about the worst that can happen to them. But fires, floods, theft, and other dangers are real, and … Continue reading →

Posted in Finance, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged disaster planning, financial risk, homeowners insurance, homeowners policy, insurance premiums | Comments Off

Lead Levels FAQ for Buyers and Sellers

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Realty Executives

On January 4, the Center for Disease Control’s Advisory on Childhood Lead Poisoning Committee recommended lowering the standard for diagnosing lead poisoning in children. The recommendation was based on newer research linking what were previously acceptable levels of lead in the bloodstream … Continue reading →

Posted in Buyers, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged CDC, Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, home inspection, lead poisoning, toxicity | Comments Off

Finding the Right Tenants

Posted on January 5, 2012 by Realty Executives

Whether you have an old home that won’t sell, can’t afford to buy in your current neighborhood, or just want to earn a passive income, there are plenty of reasons to enter the rental property market. Choosing the right property … Continue reading →

Posted in Finance, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged background checks, choosing a tenant, credit check, credit score, interviewing tenants, rental property, renting | Comments Off

Take Advantage of 2012 Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency

Posted on January 4, 2012 by Realty Executives

If winter has your home feeling a bit cold or drafty, you might want to take advantage of federal tax credits and consider some home improvements. While the 2011 tax year’s insulation tax credit has disappeared, there are still plenty … Continue reading →

Posted in Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged energy efficiency, ENERGY STAR, home finance, home improvement, home improvement costs, tax credit | Comments Off

Additions and Remodeling: Return on Investment

Posted on January 3, 2012 by Realty Executives

Remodeling can be a fantastic way to breathe life into an older home, but be careful about the type of work you choose to do. According to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost versus Value report, the only midrange or high-end remodeling project that … Continue reading →

Posted in Finance, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged additions, home improvement, home improvement costs, home remodeling, return on investment | Comments Off

Should You Buy or Rent Your Old Home?

Posted on December 28, 2011 by Realty Executives

You’ve found the perfect new home, and you’re ready to make the move, but do you sell your current home or try to rent it out? Selling now could give you some handy cash up-front, but renting could provide a … Continue reading →

Posted in Buyers, Finance, Homeowners and Sellers | Tagged moving, property management companies, rent or sell, rentals, renting your home | Comments Off

Avoid Estate Taxes by Gifting your Home

Posted on December 23, 2011 by Realty Executives

We’re deep into the season of giving, and tax time is approaching. If you’re still looking for last-minute gifts, you might want to consider your home. Depending on the value of your home, insurance policy, and other assets, estate taxes … Continue reading →