An FHA loan down payment can put homeownership in your reach, even if you don’t have a great credit score. As you know, coming up with a down payment is one of the most significant hurdles to overcome, especially if you are a first-time homebuyer. How does the FHA system work, who is eligible and how do you apply? Let’s take a look at all of it.
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Average Down Payment on a House in the U.S.
The average down payment on a house in the United States used to be a straight-up 20 percent. But that doesn’t really work for a lot of people anymore. With the price of homes today, a 20 percent down payment puts buying a home out of reach, especially for first-time home buyers. Lenders have become more flexible and there are even some programs that feature no down payments if you qualify. Before you throw up your hands and think you’ll never be able to afford to buy a home, let’s take a look at the changing landscape of down payments.
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Is it a Buyers or Sellers Market?
Whether it is a buyers or sellers market – now and in the near future – will be the topic of conversation for anyone buying a new home or selling their current home. The real estate market is an ever-changing landscape that can shift between favoring buyers or sellers at different times. Understanding whether it’s currently a buyers’ market or sellers’ market is crucial for both home buyers and sellers. Let’s dive into the definitions of buyers and sellers markets. Then we will look at some helpful tips for sellers in a buyers market and buyers in a sellers market. Finally let’s discuss important questions to ask your agent in each scenario.
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What is Residential Real Estate?
Residential real estate is an industry word that describes what most of us are doing – buying new homes and selling our previous homes. It’s the default. Most real estate agents deal with residential real estate, so it’s a term that describes 73% of the market (according to the National Association of Realtors). What are residential properties and what makes them different? What makes them special?
Listing Agent vs Selling Agent | What’s the Difference?
The listing agent vs selling agent confusion is caused by the real estate terminology that gets associated with these roles. It’s a tangle, but it’s important to know the difference if you are shopping around for a real estate specialist to help you buy a new home or one to sell your current home. And sometimes, you need both.
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REALTOR® vs Real Estate Agent | What is the Difference?
The REALTOR vs real estate agent debate creates a common dilemma that comes up when it comes to entering the world of real estate. Both can help you buy your next home or sell your current house. But what is the difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent, or better yet, which one is better?
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Sellers Market | Is it a Sellers Market Right Now?
A sellers market is a situation in which the housing demand exceeds the number of homes available for sale. While that’s the simple definition, there is nothing simple about getting the best price for your home in a seller’s market. This kind of market creates an environment in which home sellers have the upper hand, as they can set higher prices and receive multiple offers on their properties. If you’re considering selling your home in a seller’s market, there are some important things to keep in mind.
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Buyers Market | Is it a Buyers Market Right Now?
A buyers market in real estate means that you, as the buyer, have lots of choice and the ability to negotiate. And let’s be honest, the last time it was a buyers market…well, we don’t even remember. Is it a buyers market right now? Let’s take a look at the current real estate market to see if buyers should be encouraged.
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Using VA Loan for Investment Property
If you are interested in using a VA loan for investment property, you’ve come to the right place. Most aspects of the VA loan process are pretty straightforward and clear. This topic, however, is a very twisty path full of exceptions, timing, loopholes, strict rules and flexible policy. There aren’t any easy answers, but if you want to use your VA loan benefit for an investment property (or properties), it is possible. Just promise to hang on for the ride.
Using a VA Loan for Second Home | Save with Homes for Heroes
If you want to use a VA loan for second home, there are a few factors you will need to consider. To be honest, there are more than a few factors. On the plus side, it is possible to get a second home with a VA loan guarantee. On the minus side, it’s not as straightforward as you might hope. That’s because the VA loan program is designed primarily for one thing: to help active military service members and veterans afford a home. And it’s very, very good at that – one of the best government programs for housing. If you want it to do two things, such as purchasing multiple houses, it is less clear. That’s Ok if you don’t mind doing a little homework (pun intended).
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