Moving to a new home ranks right up there among life’s super-stressful events. This also holds true for your dog. New rooms, unfamiliar smells, a new yard, and a neighborhood of new people and pets. introducing your dog to a new home can all be very exciting — but also overwhelming. While you may have the option of chilling out with a glass of red wine or venting to a friend about your stress, your...
Key takeaways PMI protects the lender, not you: Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) safeguards your lender if you default on your loan, and it’s typically required on conventional loans when your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. Multiple strategies to avoid PMI: While a 20% down payment is the most direct route, other options to bypass PMI include using a “piggyback” second...
Avoid fire hazards and save on energy costs by unplugging these items when you're done using...
While you shouldn't turn your heat off when you're away from home, there are ways to save money and energy while you're...
If you’re a renter and planning to buy your first home, it’s undoubtedly a big step in your life. It also raises an important question: what happens to your lease if the right home comes along before it ends? The short answer: you can break a lease when you buy a house, but purchasing a home doesn’t automatically let you leave without penalties. What happens depends on the terms in your lease and the...
If you’re buying a home with a VA loan, it’s essential to understand the Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)—the standards the VA uses to ensure homes are safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. Whether you’re shopping for homes in San Diego, CA or houses in Jacksonville, FL, knowing these requirements upfront can help you avoid surprises during the appraisal process. This Redfin article breaks...
Selling a property with a paranormal reputation or dark history requires careful navigation of legal requirements, market realities, and buyer psychology. Properties classified as “stigmatized” (those psychologically impacted by events like alleged hauntings, deaths, or criminal activity) present unique challenges that differ fundamentally from standard real estate transactions. This guide provides...
You’ve sold your home and are ready to move but when should you actually stop your utilities? It’s best to wait until after your home sale officially closes and the buyers take possession. Turning them off too soon can lead to last-minute headaches during inspections or final walkthroughs. This helps ensure a smooth handover for the new owners and protects the property in the meantime. Whether you’re...
It includes bathroom plumbing, electrical wiring, and kitchen...
Earnest money is typically due 1–3 business days after offer acceptance. Deposit deadlines are binding under “time is of the essence” clauses. Funds should always be paid to a neutral third party (escrow, title, attorney). Missing the deadline can allow the seller to cancel the contract. After your offer is accepted, your first real financial investment in the homebuying process is...
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