The benefits of buyer's pre-approval are without question; it is good for the buyers, the sellers and the agents. It saves time, money and removes the uncertainty of knowing whether the buyer is qualified. The direct benefits include: Amount the buyer...

Just a thought Whether you're refinancing your current home or buying a new one, something worth considering is a 15 year loan rather than a 30 year term. The payments will be a little higher but you'll get a lower interest rate and you'll...

What is Appraised Value? Appraisals provide an objective opinion of value, but it’s not an exact science so appraisals may differ. For buying and selling purposes, appraisals are usually based on market value — what the property could probably...

7 Reasons to Own Your Home Tax breaks . The U.S. Tax Code lets you deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, your property taxes, as well as some of the costs involved in buying your home. Appreciation . Real estate has long-term, stable growth in...

10 Ways to Prepare for Homeownership Decide what you can afford . Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income. Develop your home wish list . Then, prioritize the features on your list. Select where...