Escrow Holdbacks vs. Repair Escrows: What’s the Difference?
Escrow holdbacks and repair escrows are common tools in real estate transactions, used to facilitate smooth property transfers under certain conditions. These financial arrangements help manage and mitigate risks associated with property conditions at closing. I will clarify the distinctions...
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Understanding Mold in Homes: What it is, Common Causes and Why It’s a Concern
Mold is a fungus that thrives in damp environments, often becoming a concern in homes. It produces spores that travel through the air and can settle on moist surfaces, leading to rapid growth. Mold’s presence in homes can pose significant health risks and cause structural damage, making...
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Legal Considerations for Unmarried Couples Buying Property
Buying a property together is a significant step for unmarried couples. This decision involves unique legal considerations and requires careful planning. I will provide critical property laws for unmarried couples, including title considerations, mortgage qualifications and protective...
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Fannie Mae Shows Consumer Sentiment Plateauing
The latest monthly update to the Fannie Mae Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HSPI)–for April 2024–shows the index at 71.9 percentage points (representative of how many consumers think now is a good time to buy). The rating is unchanged from March 2024 and 5.1 points higher from April...
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Investment Potential of a Condo vs. a House: A Comprehensive Comparison
Real estate remains a solid investment choice. It offers both rental income and the possibility of appreciation. However, deciding between investing in a condominium or a house depends on market trends, personal investment goals and the economic climate. I will provide a detailed comparison...
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Lake Home vs. Beach House: Pros and Cons of Each
When choosing a dream vacation home or a permanent residence, deciding between a lake house and a beach house is a common dilemma. If you have vacationed and enjoyed both, the decision could be challenging. Sometimes, when vacationing in either location for a short period, you may not think...
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HomeServices Hit by New Buyer Suit Days After Seller Settlement
HomeServices of America, after paying $250 million to settle seller suits and being dropped from the largest buyer suit, for a few short days was maybe the only large real estate company not directly facing commission litigation. That changed Monday, when lawyers behind the largest buyer suit...
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Consumer Confidence Retreats in April
Consumers have been feeling the waves of unrest in the economy, with mortgage rates now back up above 7% and the PCE index—the Fed’s favorite measure of inflation—up by 2.8% year-over-year. Consumer confidence fell significantly in April, dropping from 103.1 in March to 97, according to...
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Energy-Efficient Home Improvements Worth Doing
In today’s eco-conscious environment, energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a property’s standout feature. As a real estate agent, I witness first-hand how homeowners and buyers prioritize sustainability, driving demand for green improvements. This shift...
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The Impact of Liens on Real Estate Sales
A property lien is not just a term but a significant factor that can influence the outcome of home sales. Essentially, a lien is a legal claim or right against a property instituted by a creditor to secure debts or obligations owed by the homeowner. Its presence is a critical aspect that both...
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