IRS Rules regarding paying cash for primary and second homes

Just thought I’d share some info with you to pass onto primary or second home buyers who are preparing to pay cash with the idea that they will obtain financing when it is convenient or when a specific event occurs.These buyers who choose to finance later are often unaware that the IRS imposes limitations on writing off the interest on these mortgages that are obtained at a later date.   Left unaware, they could forsake tens of thousands of dollars in interest write offs. While mortgage interest write offs may eventually be a thing ofthe past, it doesn’t hurt to protect what we have and possiblyqualify for a grandfather clause.

I’ve included the specific page of the IRS guideline if you want to read it.  However, if you have a buyer who may beconsidering a cash offer, let them know to be sure to apply for mortgage financing within 90 days of completing the purchase of their primary or second home.    And, for those who hadn’t planned to get a mortgage down the road, it’s good to let them know anyway.    In every case, please refer them to their CPA.

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Three Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

Buyers only get one first look at a property, and they don’t want to use their imagination. They assume the house they see is as good as it’s going to get. If you want your home to sell, step out of your comfort zone and think like a buyer. Here are three ways to help you turn your house into the home of someone else’s dreams. We’ve broken down each category into low-cost, “Basic” tips and tricks, and an “All-Out” blow-the-budget transformation. How far you take it is up to you.
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First Time Home Buyer’s Checklist

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 home is knowing how much you can spend. If you already use an electronic budgeting system, you’re ahead of the game. If not, track your expenses for the past several months to a year. Try to quantify the “gray areas” of cash withdrawals that disappear on small purchases. Now add up your current rent and other related expenses. If you’ve been saving money toward your down payment, note that, as well. Finally, ask yourself where you can tighten your belt with your existing discretionary purchases. This is the maximum amount you could pay per month. Now ask yourself if this is reasonable, given your current savings and possible expenses. Only you know the answer to that. When you’ve arrived at a comfortable number, write it down, and save your calculations. You’ll take this to the bank when you apply for loan preapproval. For now, you have an estimated payment you can use while shopping online.
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4 Tips to Determine How Much Mortgage You Can Afford

By: G. M. Filisko
Published 2010-03-11 16:55:18

By knowing how much mortgage you can handle, you can ensure that home ownership will fit in your budget.

Homeownership should make you feel safe and secure, and that includes financially. Be sure you can afford your home by calculating how much of a mortgage you can safely fit into your budget.

Instead of just taking out the biggest mortgage a lender qualifies you to borrow, consider how much you want to pay each month for housing based on your financial and personal goals.
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Homeowners Insurance Checklist

A home is the single biggest investment most Americans will ever make. Protecting that investment is not just a legal responsibility, but the smartest move you can make. Here are 7 tips for getting the most out of your homeowners insurance for the smallest premium.

1. Research Early and Often
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7 Tips for a Profitable Home Closing

By: G. M. Filisko
Published 2010-02-10 09:46:23

Be sure you’re walking away with all the money you’re entitled to from the sale of your home

When you’re ready to close on the sale of your home and move to your new home, you may be so close to the finish line that you coast, thinking there’s nothing left for you to do. Not so fast. It’s easy to waste a few dollars here and for mistakes to creep into your closing documents there, all adding up to a bundle of lost profit. Spot money-losing problems with these seven tips.
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6 Tips for Choosing the Best Offer on Your Home

By: G. M. Filisko
Published 2010-02-10 11:32:13

Have a plan for reviewing purchase offers so you don’t let the best slip through your fingers.

You’ve worked hard to get your home ready for sale and to price it properly. With any luck, offers will come quickly. You’ll need to review each carefully to determine its strengths and drawbacks and pick one to accept. Here’s a plan for evaluating offers.
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Home Inspections 101

According to a study conducted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) in 2001, 97 percent of home buyers who received home inspections believe they received a good value for their money. 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 threats that can cost tens of thousands of dollars to fix.
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7 Tips for Improving Your Credit

By: G. M. Filisko
Published 2010-02-25 13:35:12

Here’s how to clean up your credit so you get the least-expensive home loan possible.

Getting the loan that suits your situation at the best possible price and terms makes homebuying easier and more affordable. Here are seven ways to boost your credit score so you can do just that.
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7 Steps to Take Before You Buy a Home

By: G. M. Filisko
Published 2010-02-10 11:24:53

By doing your homework before you buy, you’ll feel more content about your new home.

Most potential homebuyers are a smidge daunted by the fact that they’re about to agree to a hefty mortgage that they’ll be paying for the next few decades. The best way to relieve that anxiety is to be confident you’re purchasing the best home at a price you can afford with the most favorable financing. These seven steps will help you make smart decisions about your biggest purchase.
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