Manny Menezes Group's Blog
Source: CNNMoney
1. Don't buy if you can't stay put.
If you can't commit to remaining in one place for at least a few years, then owning is probably not for you, at least not yet. With the transaction costs of buying and selling a home, you may end up losing money if you sell any sooner - even in a rising market. When prices are falling, it's an even worse proposition.
2. Start by shoring up your credit.
Since you most likely will need to get a mortgage to buy a house, you must make sure your credit history is as clean as possible. A few months before you start house hunting, get copies of your credit report. Make sure the facts are correct, and fix any problems you discover.
3. Aim for a home you can really afford.
The rule of thumb is that you can buy housing that runs about two-and-one-half times your annual salary. But you'll do better to use one of many calculators available online to get a better handle on how your income, debts, and expenses affect what you can afford.
4. If you can't put down the usual 20 percent, you may still qualify for a loan.
There are a variety of public and private lenders who, if you qualify, offer low-interest mortgages that require a small down payment.
5. Buy in a district with good schools.
In most areas, this advice applies even if you don't have school-age children. Reason: When it comes time to sell, you'll learn that strong school districts are a top priority for many home buyers, thus helping to boost property values.
6. Get professional help.
Even though the Internet gives buyers unprecedented access to home listings, most new buyers (and many more experienced ones) are better off using a professional agent.
11 Great Reasons To… LIST YOUR HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS! 1 People who look for a home during the holidays are more serious buyers. 2 Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the Holidays and less competition mean more money for you. 3 Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January, there will be less demand for your particular home. Less demand means less money for you. 4 Houses show better when decorated for the Holidays. 5 Buyers are more emotional during the Holidays so they are more likely to pay your price. 6 Buyers have more time to look for a home during the Holidays than during regular weekdays. 7 Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax purposes. 8 January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until spring to buy, you must be on the market during the Holidays to capture that market. 9 You can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days during the Holidays. 10 You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year. 11 By selling now, you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the spring when many more houses are on the market for less money! This will allow you to sell high and buy low. Brought to you by The Manny Menezes Team @ EXIT Realty Consultants – 401.323.8292
11 Great Reasons To…LIST YOUR HOME DURING THE HOLIDAYS!
1. People who look for a home during the holidays are more serious buyers.
2. Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the Holidays and less competition mean more money for you.
“Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have fed him for a lifetime”—Author Unknown
