Ready to Work to Live instead of Living to Work?

Jun24
2018 Written by mary.w

If you’re more interested in spending time with family and friends (or desire to be a one income home w/an at home parent) than working a gazillion hours just to own a home and pay ridiculous “keep up with the Jones’s” cost of surviving, then you might be interested in moving to one of these 5 cities, all which, when factoring cost of living including housing to average household income come in at under 25% ratio of income to expenses.

Listed from Best to 5th:

#1:  Huntsville AL      Avg Household Income: $52,960   Living Expenses Less than 23%

#2:  Fort Wayne IN    Avg Household Income: $42,250   Living Expenses Less than 23%

#3:  Des Moines IA     Avg Household Income: $49,420  Living Expenses Less than 24%

#4:  Grand Rapids MI:  Avg Household Inc.:    $43,610   Living Expenses Less than 25%

#5:  Indianapolis IN:  Avg Household Income: $46,840  Living Expenses Less than 25%

Posted in Uncategorized

YAY or NAY THAT HOA!!

Jun12
2018 Written by mary.w

Homeowner’s Associations have grown in number especially with homes built within the last 10 years. Some think that’s great and others have discovered the downfalls of living under the thumb of their HOA. So let’s address the possible pros and cons. Then decide whether you want to live with the extra cost and rules.

Pro: Because of the rules established by your Homeowner’s Association, you can be pretty assured that your neighborhood will be well maintained. Some typical items under the HOA’s control are: Keeping your lawn manicured; Garbage cans must be put out after a certain time and brought back in within x number of hours after pickup; Restrictions on street parking or leaving boats/trucks in the driveway; Limitations on exterior home paint colors creating a uniformity within the neighborhood.

Pro: Many of your upkeep costs are shared by all members of the HOA ie: Common lawn areas and entries of the subdivision; Community snow removal which can definitely be a plus after big snowfalls guaranteeing that your streets will be plowed and you can get out and to work or the kids to school; Upkeep of community amenities like pools, fitness center, clubhouse party rooms, social areas, trails, boat docks, playgrounds, parks, etc; Newsletter distribution with updates, announcements and community events; some even offer 24 hour emergency maintenance!

 

Pro: Community Amenities might be included in your fee providing activities for your family that you might otherwise have to pay seasonal fees or costs to take advantage of ie: Pool, Clubhouse, Fitness Center, Social Activities like game nights, cards, billiards, tennis courts, etc.; Parks, Trails, Kid’s pools and playgrounds; Manned and unmanned gated entry to the subdivision and in some cases Security Patrol as well.

Pro: By participating in the HOA ( by joining the board or participating in community sponsored events) you have the opportunity to meet and get to know more of your neighbors, which can be a real plus if you’re new to the area.

Pro:  In the event you and your neighbor find yourself disagreeing about something that pertains to your properties, you can ask your association to mediate by filing a grievance with your HOA Board or your Management company.

Con: HOA Dues. When determining how much home you can afford, you will need to definitely factor in your monthly dues + any reserve funds required in the event there are major repairs necessary in the neighborhood. You DO NOT want to get behind on your HOA fees as they have the ability to put a lien on your home and even foreclose in spite of the fact that your mortgage is current.

Con: If you purchase a home and then decide you want to expand on it say with a screened patio, or a deck or even in some cases planting flowers, you may have to get permission from your board to do so and they very often say no so even though you own your home, you don’t own what you do with it.

Con:  If your HOA is poorly managed and gets into financial problems, it could bring down the values of all the properties in the subdivision and even affect your ability to get a loan on your home if you’re trying to refinance your mortgage or take out an equity loan.

Con:  You have to follow the rules even if you don’t agree with them. You can petition to try and get the rule changed but will have to live with the result even if it’s not in your favor.

The point is, HOAs can be very very good BUT they can also be very very bad. Before you purchase a home, condo, townhome that lives within an HOA, take the time (and it will take time) to read the entire bylaws. It will be time well spent so you can make an educated decision on your true dream home!

Posted in Uncategorized

Closing is a Process

May31
2018 Written by mary.w
What to Expect from the Closing ProcessYou searched, found and made an offer on your dream home that the seller accepted. Inspections have taken place and ff you were a prepared buyer, you were pre-approved and so now got the final approval for your mortgage loan. Next step is closing….right? Well, yes and no. Closing is a process and some things will take place prior to you sitting down and signing the mortgage paperwork and other necessary documents and then…yay….leave with the keys to your new home!  The following details will help you be totally prepared for the closing process and put the key into your new front door with a joyful (and stressless) heart!

Review Your Closing Disclosure

Prior to your actual closing (must be given to you 3 days prior to your closing date), you’ll receive a Closing Disclosure which will detail the final costs of your loan. As soon as you receive this document, acknowledge receipt so that your closing does not get delayed due to a time error. Your Closing Disclosure might not be exactly the same as the Loan Estimate that you received previously but should be within 10% of the original figures.

Perform a Final Walk ThroughThis is an important step and usually takes place up to one day prior to closing to ensure that everything is exactly as stated it would be in your purchase agreement.  A checklist should include:

  •   Take the time to check that all the lights (inside and out) , faucets, showers,   outlets, furnace, air conditioner,etc. are in working order.
  •   Make sure the remote(s) for the garage door work.
  •   Based on the agreement and inspections, were all the repairs agreed to completed?
  •   Again based on your purchase agreement are all the items that were supposed to be left there and in working order or the condition promised…appliances, window treatments and any items that are not permanent fixtures but were part of the agreement.
  • If the seller has already moved out, check for any damages that may have been caused in the process.

If there are any issues that need resolution, you can contact the listing agent and if necessary negotiate a remedy or you can ask to delay the closing until the problems have been resolved.

Bring With You to Closing

The closing agent should let you know what they will need from you at closing but below are some items that are typically required:

  • Photo ID: Driver’s license or another valid government issued ID.
  • Your down payment and closing costs: Cashier’s check, Bank Check or proof of wire transfer.
  • Your Closing Disclosure: This will allow you to compare with the final document.
  • The closing agent should let you know what they will need from you at closing but below are some items that are typically required:

Who Will Be at the Closing

Typically all buyers who will be on the mortgage will need to sign documents at the closing. If you cannot attend the physical closing and have an attorney, you can give them power of attorney to sign the documents for you. This can vary state to state so make sure you ASK rather than assume. Sometimes, both seller and buyer will be there but, again, this can vary by state.

A closing agent will facilitate the closing. They’re typcially a neutral third party who will assist you and the seller through the process. If you have an attorney and your buyer does not, your closing might be scheduled at your attorney’s office in lieu of the title company. If you have one, your real estate agent can attend and in fact in some states, they are required to be there. They will know if that’s the case.

It’s always best, just so you feel relaxed and prepared, to find out, in your state, who must be at the closing and who can be at the closing.

This is an exciting event. After all the documents are signed and monies paid, you will receive the keys to your dream home and begin your wonderful new adventure! Congratulations!!

Posted in General Information, Tips and Ideas, Uncategorized

We Honor and Thank our Military!

May28
2018 Written by mary.w

First, let me state that we, at BuyOwner.com,  are grateful for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and appreciate and thank our active military and veterans for your service. There are home ownership and rental benefits for both active military, veterans and the families of those who were lost in battle. When you’re ready to get started with your BuyOwner.com advertising, we will gratefully provide you with a Military usaflagdiscount! To help you on your journey to home ownership or leasing options, below you’ll find valuable information that will make your home search more manageable, less stressful and lead you to your new home!

One of the first places to check for eligibility, benefits and assistance is the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Some of their offerings include $0 down payment mortgages, housing grants for disabled veterans (with service related disabilities) and even have help if you’re choosing to rent instead of own. So let’s get started so you can move into your well earned lifestyle!

VA MORTGAGE GUARANTY PROGRAM

Veterans and service members can use this mortgage program if they are wanting to buy a home with no down payment. VA mortgages generally do cost less and provide for more flexible qualification requirements than traditional conventional mortgages.

BENEFIT FOR SERVICE RELATED DISABLED VETS – ADAPTIVE HOUSING GRANTS

If you are a veteran suffering with service related disabilities, you are eligible to receive assistance with the costs of altering your existing home or with building a new home. Visit the VA website to review details regarding 3 possible programs designed to help you live as independently as possible. They are: Special Housing Adaptation, Specially Adapted Housing and Temporary Residence Adaptation.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION

Already own a home but suffering from some financial challenges; before you give up and walk away (which will incur more challenges in the future) contact your local VA office or the VA website to speak with counselors specifically focused on helping you avoid foreclosure. You can take advantage of this help even if your mortgage is not a VA loan.

ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR HOME STATE

Active duty personnel and veterans can access state assistance with housing related benefits such as the Military Housing Assistance Fund. This provides help with closing costs related to your new mortgage. If you’re disabled, you may qualify for partial or full exemption from property taxes (may not be available in all states).

EMERGENCY AID FOR HOMELESS VETERANS

Several local agencies work in tandem with the VA to provide housing vouchers and subsidized rents for vets who are already or in danger of becoming homeless. If you need this help now or fear you may need it in the future, contact your local VA Medical Center via: 877-424-3838. You can also access information and assistance by going to va.gov/homeless.

Again, we at BuyOwner.com, appreciate your service and hope to assist you to the best of our ability with your home ownership/leasing goals!

Posted in Uncategorized

MAXIMIZE YOUR AD & YOUR RESULTS!!

May20
2018 Written by mary.w

Unlike in days of old when you could tease your buyers with a few photos and, if intrigued, they would come and view your home in person, modern day online shoppers want to walk entirely through your home visually before they take their time to do so physically. You have one chance at a first impression. Here are a few tips to help you maximize on your advertising to effectively intrigue the most potential buyers.

  • Your photos will either encourage your discourage prospective buyers. If you take mediocre photos, consider having them done professionally (offered with both BuyOwner Elite and Premium ads). The reality is, if someone doesn’t like your photos, they aren’t reading your description. They’re moving on to the next home.
  • If you have a 4 bedroom home, unless not possible due to clutter you can’t clear, show all 4 bedrooms. If you only show one, buyers are creating their own reasons why you’re choosing not to show the others ie: too small, bad closet, damaged walls or floors, etc…..none of that may be true…except in the buyer’s mind. Next!
  • Take your time when taking your photos. It’s not ok that the laundry is laying on the floor next to the bed or that dishes are in the sink or you can’t see the daylight through the dirt on your window.  Your friends might not care but if your home looks messy and unkempt in your photo, prospects are probably thinking how much worse it must be behind the refrigerator. Next!
  • Consider eye distractions.  Those pretty towels hanging on the door of your oven look attractive in person BUT in a photo, they’re an ‘eye distraction’. What that means is that when the photo opens, your buyer’s eyes are drawn to the towels instead of your Kitchen.  Unless you’re selling your home fully furnished, your goal is to showcase your spaces, not your stuff. An easy test to know if you need to remove something is to stand in the doorway, turn around and then quickly turn back to your room. If your eye sees something instead of the room, that’s what needs to come out before you take your photo.
  • Capitalize on natural light. Nothing is more enticing than sunlight wafting across a hardwood floor and nothing is harsher than a photo discolored or filtered by the glow from a lamp or overhead light. Abundant natural light is typically a very positive draw with buyers so capitalize on that feature if offered by your home.  Tip: Recessed lighting typically enhances a photo while illuminated lamps do not. Tip: Shoot photos on a partly sunny day so your photos are clear and not hazed over from too much sunshine coming in through the windows.
  • When writing your description, be direct and to the point. The days of cozy, charming cottages and fluff filled adjectives is for the most part, gone. In our fast paced world of short attention spans, people want facts instead of fiction. That doesn’t mean cold and industrial. You can be ‘warm’ without being wordy.
  • Put the buyer in the ad and take yourself out. Ex: “We’ve loved having our whole neighborhood and family over for Thanksgiving  dinners”  vs “You’ll enjoy hosting holiday dinners and parties in your spacious, formal Dining Room.”
  • Choose your words wisely:  Ex: Use the word ‘home’ instead of ‘house’. Though on the surface this might seem minimal, a house is a building,  a home is the place where you want to relax at the end of the day and raise your family.           Ex2: Instead of detailing every upgrade in your Master Bath try “Luxurious en-suite Bath”.  When you’re writing, say the words out loud and you’ll ‘feel’ the difference.  Fact is, unless a buyer is an investor, more homes are purchased emotionally than pragmatically.

When your prospective buyers are looking at your ad, they are asking themselves one main question, “Why should I pay this price, for this home in this location?” The job of your ad is to answer with “this is why, this is why, this is why.” If your home ‘makes sense’ to them they’re coming for a closer look!

Posted in Uncategorized

Importance of Debt to Income Ratio when Qualifying for a Mortgage

May14
2018 Written by mary.w

If you’re trying to determine whether or not you can qualify for a mortgage, one of the first factors for you to think about is your debt to income ratio (DTI).  This is a % of your total “minimum” (we’ll discuss this further later) monthly debt divided by your “gross” monthly income.

When determining your DTI you will factor in your annual income and monthly payments including your current mortgage/rent payments, credit cards, car loans and other fixed expenses ie: student loans, alimony, child support, personal loans, investment property costs, etc.

Your Annual Income (and your co-borrower’s if applies) will be computed before taxes (Gross) and include your base salary, bonuses, commissions, overtime, tips, child support, alimony and income from investments and investment properties.

Payments include: Any mortgage or rent payments you are currently making. This does not include the new mortgage you are qualifying for.  Credit card payments are added in based on what your minimum monthly payments are (you owe $3000 with a minimum monthly payment of $75. Your DTI factors in the $75 not the $3000.  If you have a car loan or lease, your monthly payment will be added in. Then you will add in all the other monthly costs mentioned above. The total will be your Debt which will then be divided by your gross annual income

Sample computation:

Gross monthly income = $3000                                                                                                        Monthly Debt = $1000  (the figure you came up with by adding up all your monthly debts)

1000/3000 = 33%   This is your DTI

Less than 36% is typically considered acceptable and workable toward qualifying for a mortgage. The lower this % the more you can borrow which in turn provides you with more options and negotiating power when searching for that dream home!

Posted in Uncategorized

You Can Reduce the Stress from Moving!

May03
2018 Written by mary.w

Moving and all that entails: choosing a mover, getting quotes, insurance, packing, overpacking, etc. can create a stress level that is anything but fun and exciting.  In our heads we create this fabulous experience yet without some solid planning and due diligence, the result will most likely be “I will never move again!!” Let’s look at a few things you can do to help create the fun move fantasy that lives in your head.

1. Choose your mover wisely.

Yes, there are moving scams so beware and be diligent. Again, remember the cheapest price is rarely the “Best” deal! Moving can be very costly so take the time to do your homework and review both details listed on websites AND random reviews. Check out the name of the company you’re considering on Ripoffreport.com. Not only can you see negative reviews & complaints, but how well the company handled the complaints thru the Better Business Bureau. You can also research your state transportation regulator and the U.S. Department of Transportation to see if your company has been flagged for complaints and misdeeds. Any of your friends, family or co-workers moved recently? Find out who they used and what kind of experience they had.  If they rave, take note and get a quote. If they say, it was ‘ok’ or less than satisfactory, you’ll know what companies to cross off your list hence not wasting your time.

2. Comparison shop and review quotes carefully checking out every ounce of small print or exceptions.

When hiring a moving company, one of the first indicators of their price to value is their willingness to come out to your home and provide you with a professional detailed estimate and not quote you over the phone based on your inexperienced information. Unless you have done this several times before or are in the industry, there are many factors that you just won’t be cognizant of so educate yourself by choosing a company that will walk you fully through the process, pricing and incidental factors that can arise and increase your bottom line dramatically. If they won’t come, tell them no thanks!  Just like any major purchase, it’s best to get multiple quotes and compare not just their price, but how they treated you, advised you and were willing to take time to answer all your questions. An attention to detail at this starting point will usually reflect an attention to detail throughout the process. As nice as the company rep or owner might be and all the extras they say “they’ll throw in”, say thank you and then GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING!! Note: If this is a short  move, you might want to compare the costs and headaches of hiring professional movers with doing the job yourself with the help of some wonderful friends and family. Always good to do those old fashioned pros and cons list to determine if this is a feasible option.

3. Schedule your move as early as possible.

Getting quotes and choose a moving company can take time when you do it right, so make sure and leave yourself enough time and do it far enough ahead of when you will be moving so that you don’t get stuck having to use an inferior company simply because they’re the only ones available. Companies with great reputations and minimal complaints will book up quickly so get them out, choose the one you want to use and get on their schedule. Even if it’s months ahead of your actual move, when push comes to shove, this is one thing you won’t have to worry about.

4. Pack with ease and cost in mind.

Do you really need to move baby clothes that your children have outgrown or your grown children don’t want for their children. I get the sentiment…right there with you and this is a tough one but remember each box added to the moving truck adds considerable cost to your bottom line. That goes for nik naks, boxed up ‘treasures’ that you haven’t looked at since you moved them from your last home to this home, books you never plan to read again (this one can really pay off because books make for very heavy boxes), clothes you haven’t worn in over a year, pans you never cook with, etc etc etc.  This is a great time to purge and start fresh in your new home. Go through your bins, boxes, closets and shelves and make piles: Toss….Give away to a friend or family member who will appreciate what you’re sharing with them….Give to charity…..Sell at a garage sale. Sometimes it is very hard to let go but if you’re going to have to pay for a storage place at your new home to accommodate all your ‘extra stuff’, or load up your basement or garage the day you move in, think of the word “Edit” and begin the journey to a less cluttered, less cumbersome and more free lifestyle in your new home!

5. Start packing from the moment you decide to move!

Packing is fun for around the first few hours. After that, well, let’s just say your mood will be less than happy and excited! You can reduce the stress of packing by starting immediately and doing it in small increments of time instead of all at once. Go room by room with a clipboard and make a list of items that can be packed ahead of time and stacked and ready to go…ie: off season clothing, linens, blankets, holiday decor, etc. Remember the most important step, LABEL ALL YOUR BOXES AND BINS not  only with what room they go in but a breakdown of what’s in there. This will be very helpful at the other end so you know which boxes or bins to open first or set aside for later. This will allow you to settle in gracefully instead of pulling out your hair trying to find your utensils or mugs and coffee maker which you want right away.

6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!!!

We all have those friends and family that will be more than willing to assist us when we need help. It will be much kinder and easier to get them to help if you are doing your packing in spurts. A couple of hours on a Saturday, Sunday or evening here and there is much more palatable than asking someone to give up their entire weekend because you dropped the ball  with planning.

REMEMBER THE ADAGE, IF YOU FAIL TO PLAN YOU PLAN TO FAIL.  This is so true when it comes to something as huge and significant as moving.

Posted in Uncategorized

Are Solar Panels Really Worth the Money & Effort?

Apr28
2018 Written by mary.w

You’ve heard the pitch, “Save thousands of dollars by going solar!”. But is that true for you and how can you get through the hype and determine the truth.

Below are a couple of things to consider when considering going solar:

What are you currently paying for your electricity?

This is probably going to be the most important factor that you will be considering since your goal from installing solar is to lower the cost of powering your home. If you look at your current electric bill, you’ll see that your bill is based on the number of kilowatt-hour (kWh) you use. Costs per kWh can vary greatly based on where you live. Make sure when determining your savings you are using your actual cost per kWh and not calculating your savings based on a generalized article or ‘worksheet’ you’ve found online. Obviously those homeowners with the highest electricity rates will most likely save the most by switching to solar power.

What will a switch to a Solar Panel System Cost to Install?

When considering the solar company you will use for this major investment, going with the lowest bid just because it’s the least out of pocket, may cost you far more in the long run. You must consider both your short term and long term gains when choosing equipment and the company that will design and install your system. Take your time. Meet with multiple companies and don’t be afraid to ask very specific questions about them, their installation team, their warranties, etc.  With all the research and details available online, prepare for your meetings with the companies by creating a list of specific questions you need answers to in order to choose. Take notes. Get all your questions answered. If they are trying to rush through your appointment, rush them out your door!

Don’t be afraid to ask about any incentives or discounts they may currently be offering BUT don’t get pushed into making an immediate decision “or else lose today’s special price”. That’s probably the first company you should cross off your list.  note: Odds are pretty high that if you called them the next week and told them you would like to hire them but at the discounted price, they will say yes.

Speaking of incentives….check in your city, county and state to see if there are any energy incentives and rebates available. These can sometimes reduce your net cost by 50% or more. The federal government offers a 30% solar tax credit (search online for details and ask your tax professional for how you personally could benefit). Hard to believe but true…some utility companies even offer rebates to their customers to encourage their switch to solar power. Check your utility company’s website for details.

Only you can determine if the switch to solar offers you enough benefit to outweigh the initial costs. As in any big decision, due diligence is the key!
 

 

Posted in General Information, Green Living, Home Improvement, Tips and Ideas, Uncategorized

Can You Sell Your Home Yourself? Should You?

Apr15
2018 Written by mary.w

Many people want to sell their home without the cost of using a Realtor. But they question their ability to do so successfully. Let’s address some of the most commonly asked questions and then you decide if the benefits of BuyOwner.com marketing is the best option for you.

Q:  Can I effectively price my home so that it is not too much or too little?                                 A:   Yes. Just like an agent or appraiser can do, you can search the internet for comparable properties that have sold in your area. You can search the average price/sf homes have and are selling for in your area and create a base price for your home. Then, based on what the comps offer (they have granite, you don’t…..you have a 3 car garage, they have 2…etc) and add or subtract for your price. Don’t know what the value of granite upgrades in your area are worth? Again, do an online search for that information. With all the shows on HGTV, DIY Network and many other sites, you will be able to glean that sort of information. Aftr all that, if you still are unsure of where your home should be priced, you might consider having an appraisal done. This may cost a few hundred $$ but will be less than the cost of a listing commission and may help you maximize your profit once sold.

Q:  Should I be afraid of showing my home myself?                                                                     A:   This is a total personal decision. If you are fearful of walking people through your home, then selling on your own is probably not your best option. If you are not fearful but unsure of how to show your home, go to our blog entry, “The Effective Walk Through” and make yourself familiar with the process and then decide if you feel comfortable doing so. Remember, no one knows your home better than you. If you can share the benefits without overwhelming your prospective buyer with your emotions, then go for it!

Q:  Should I expand my exposure into the MLS, realtor.com, and other sites?                     A:  That depends on your own personal goals regarding exposure. BuyOwner.com, due to its 34 years of branding, enjoys a high level of buyers actively searching for their dream homes so you definitely have the chance of finding a buyer who is shopping on their own and this will save you both listing and selling agents commissions. MLS syndication in addition to and available with your BuyOwner.com advertising blasts your home out to hundreds of websites so that no matter where your buyer is searching, if your home matches their search, they will find you. Want to be sold yesterday (like so many sellers do) then maximizing your exposure will be your best option.

Q:  If I do include MLS syndications, do I have to offer buyers agents a commission?        A:  Yes. You are placing your home in the realtors database and therefore must offer buyers agents some compensation for bringing you a buyer. You can decide what that will be, but when deciding, keep in mind that the buyer’s agent will be creating, presenting & negotiating the buyer’s offer to you, making sure their buyer does what they need to do to get their financing locked in, inspections ordered and documents to the Title Company for closing. The buyer’s agent will not be paid unless your deal gets to closing so they will be hopefully do their job professionally and efficiently. Good for you and your buyer. All of that said, you can decide what is fair based on the selling value of your home. You are selling by owner in order to take more of your equity with you vs giving it to an agent at closing.

Q:  Can I use my own photos for the ad?                                                                                         A:   Yes and perhaps, no. If, when you look at your photos, you comment, “They’re ok…they’re fine”  then definitely use the professional photography options available from BuyOwner.com. Or, if you have someone you know who can take excellent photos, then have them do it. Your photos are your first impression on your prospective buyers. If they don’t like your photos, they are moving on to the next home. Photograph your entire home. Buyers are not interested in being teased as was the case a few years back. They want to walk through your home before they will physically walk through your home. Make it such a great online walk through that they can’t help but come and see it in person!  Your BuyOwner.com Marketing Consultant will assist you with creating a great photo portfolio even if you are using your own photos instead of the professional.

Q:  Do I have to hire a lawyer to complete the selling process?                                                   A:   This answer is multi-layered. First, you should check for what the laws are in your state and if they require you to have a lawyer at closing. If so, then, yes you must. If they don’t require it but the Title Company agents do not conduct the closing but rather put you in a room with the buyers and their lawyer and all the documents, then you might definitely want to have your own lawyer there to make sure that you don’t experience any surprises at the closing when your goal is to hand over the keys and move on.  If you are someone who deals with contracts all the time (builder, developer, landlord, paralegal) or many other professions where you are comfortable reviewing and understanding contracts, then you may choose to handle it yourself. This may be one of the most important decisions you make, so consider doing a pros and cons list and then decide.

Q:  How will using BuyOwner.com help me sell my home for maximum profit in minimum time with the least amount of fear?                                                                                                  A:  One of the best advantages of choosing BuyOwner.com vs other for sale by owner companies on the internet is that not only do you have all the benefits of saving money, you have all the advantages of selling on your own but not by yourself. As a full service marketing company with providing customer care agents and Personal Marketing Consultants with extensive real estate experience (averaging 14-20+ years) working with you from start until the property has sold, you can move forward with confidence!

 

Posted in Uncategorized

ASSISTANCE TO VETERANS W/HOME OWNERSHIP/RENTAL!

Apr08
2018 Written by mary.w

First, let me state that we, at BuyOwner.com, appreciate and thank our active military and veterans for your service. When you’re ready to get started with your BuyOwner.com advertising, we will gratefully provide you with a Military discount! To help you on your journey to home ownership or leasing options, below you’ll find valuable information that will make your home search more manageable, less stressful and lead you to your new home!

One of the first places to check for eligibility, benefits and assistance is the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Some of their offerings include $0 down payment mortgages, housing grants for disabled veterans (with service related disabilities) and even have help if you’re choosing to rent instead of own. So let’s get started so you can move into your well earned lifestyle!

VA MORTGAGE GUARANTY PROGRAM

Veterans and service members can use this mortgage program if they are wanting to buy a home with no down payment. VA mortgages generally do cost less and provide for more flexible qualification requirements than traditional conventional mortgages.

BENEFIT FOR SERVICE RELATED DISABLED VETS – ADAPTIVE HOUSING GRANTS

If you are a veteran suffering with service related disabilities, you are eligible to receive assistance with the costs of altering your existing home or with building a new home. Visit the VA website to review details regarding 3 possible programs designed to help you live as independently as possible. They are: Special Housing Adaptation, Specially Adapted Housing and Temporary Residence Adaptation.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION

Already own a home but suffering from some financial challenges; before you give up and walk away (which will incur more challenges in the future) contact your local VA office or the VA website to speak with counselors specifically focused on helping you avoid foreclosure. You can take advantage of this help even if your mortgage is not a VA loan.

ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR HOME STATE

Active duty personnel and veterans can access state assistance with housing related benefits such as the Military Housing Assistance Fund. This provides help with closing costs related to your new mortgage. If you’re disabled, you may qualify for partial or full exemption from property taxes (may not be available in all states).

EMERGENCY AID FOR HOMELESS VETERANS

Several local agencies work in tandem with the VA to provide housing vouchers and subsidized rents for vets who are already or in danger of becoming homeless. If you need this help now or fear you may need it in the future, contact your local VA Medical Center via: 877-424-3838. You can also access information and assistance by going to va.gov/homeless.

Again, we at BuyOwner.com, appreciate your service and hope to assist you to the best of our ability with your home ownership/leasing goals!

 

Posted in General Information, Uncategorized
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Welcome to the BuyOwner.com Blog, your source for regularly updated market information!

Founded in 1984, BuyOwner.com® is the leading provider of real estate marketing services. We pioneered the "For Sale by Owner" (FSBO) market, which today represents over 20 percent of all residential real estate transactions.

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