Tag: homebuying basics
-
Quick Facts on PMI
Read more: Quick Facts on PMIWhat is PMI? PMI stands for private mortgage insurance. It’s an insurance policy that protects a mortgage lender against loss if a borrower defaults on a loan. Who is asked to pay PMI? It varies, but lenders typically require PMI on conventional loans with a less than 20% down payment. How much does PMI cost?…
-
3 Ways to Take Advantage of the Current Housing Market
Read more: 3 Ways to Take Advantage of the Current Housing MarketHave you read the positive housing market news lately? From many accounts, the economy seems to be on the road to recovery. But the question remains: Is now a good time to buy a new home? There are positive aspects to every market. Here’s how to take advantage of what’s happening now: 1. Secure a…
-
5 Steps to Get Out of the Rental Market (and Into Your Dream Home!)
Read more: 5 Steps to Get Out of the Rental Market (and Into Your Dream Home!)With rent skyrocketing in many areas, renters are asking themselves “Would it be cheaper to buy a home?” In many cases the answer is yes! Research the rental market in your city and weigh your options. If you’re ready to stop renting and start building equity, here are some quick tips to get you into…
-
How Much House Can I Afford?
Read more: How Much House Can I Afford?Attractive interest rates, news of rising home values and tight rental markets have many Americans daydreaming about a new home. If you’re one of them, you may be surprised by how much home you can afford—and how easy it can be to find out. Step 1: Review your budget. If you don’t already have a…
-
From the FAQ File: Credit Health
Read more: From the FAQ File: Credit HealthSome of the questions we receive aren’t about Richmond American Homes, but about homebuying in general. For example… Q: Do I have to have spotless credit to buy a home? A: No, but a good credit history may help you get a better interest rate on your mortgage. If you’re not sure whether you’re ready…
-
Building Your Dream Home: Matching Your Home Site to Your Floor Plan
Read more: Building Your Dream Home: Matching Your Home Site to Your Floor PlanAs you’re making your final home site and floor plan selections, it’s important to consider how the two fit together. Ask yourself these questions as you narrow down your options: Where’s the light? If you’re looking forward to breakfast in a nook that’s filled with morning sunlight, you might want to choose a home site…
-
Buying a House After Bankruptcy, Foreclosure or Short Sale
Read more: Buying a House After Bankruptcy, Foreclosure or Short SaleIf you’ve been through a short sale, foreclosure or bankruptcy, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans have been in your shoes, and many have moved on to become homeowners again. You can, too. Buying a home may be a little more challenging this time, but it can still be a part of your family’s future.…
-
When Should I Sell My House? Tips for When to Sell Your Home
Read more: When Should I Sell My House? Tips for When to Sell Your HomeUltimately, the decision to sell your home is a very personal one. It’s impossible to come up with an exact formula of circumstances that tell you it’s time to move. Though it may come down to gut instinct, here are some things to consider before putting your home on the market. Look at local market…
-
First-time Homebuyer Tips and Advice
Read more: First-time Homebuyer Tips and AdviceBuying your first home is an exciting milestone. For some, it’s a dream come true and a proud personal achievement; for others, it’s a promise for their family’s future. Like any life-altering event, though, it can be overwhelming. Where do you start? How should you finance? What can you afford? The real estate jargon alone…
-
5 Positive Housing Market Facts
Read more: 5 Positive Housing Market FactsThere has been a lot of buzz about today’s housing market, but current conditions can be beneficial to homebuyers for several reasons. Here are five things to keep in mind during your home search. 1. Homebuilding is cyclical Everyone knows the housing market is in a down cycle, but what many people may not understand…
-
How to Buy a House: Tips From Our Folks in the Field
Read more: How to Buy a House: Tips From Our Folks in the FieldWhat advice would you give house hunters? That’s the question we put to our team, from Design Consultants and Construction Superintendents to Sales Associates and Loan Officers, nationwide. We wanted insights from the people who work with house hunters every day, and they didn’t disappoint. Our first local homebuyer tip is from one of our…