As the U.S. economy continues to show signs of recovery and improvement, it’s no surprise that buyers from outside the country are increasingly eyeing U.S. real estate as a good investment. Real estate is a tangible asset that may increase in value over time and can provide a positive rate of return with less volatility than the stock market. There are potential tax advantages as well. Whether you are a professional relocating for work, an international investor, or a first generation immigrant living in the U.S., there are home purchase and financing options available to resident and non-resident buyers. Here’s some insight into the basics – from the home search to securing financing:
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Every so often there’s a home on the market that’s for sale by its owner. Usually, it’s because the seller wants to try their luck without an agent. These types of listings can still offer great deals, but they also come with some nuances. Here’s what you should know about a home that’s for sale by owner. Read More “What to Know About a For Sale by Owner Home” →

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What is your favorite escape? A coastal retreat. A rustic mountain hideaway. A loft with a city view. Whatever you prefer, a vacation home can be a lifestyle upgrade that provides a respite from the daily grind. As an investment property, that second home may also help achieve your financial goals and plan for the future. But, how do you figure out if owning a second home is even in the realm of possibility? Answering these three questions below will help you put forth a plan to make your home away from home a reality. Read More “3 Questions to Answer Before Buying a Second Home” →

Buying a home for the first time can seem like a daunting process. But it doesn’t have to be difficult. With a little preparation, and the guidance of a real estate agent and mortgage professional, you’ll be well on your way to making the house of your dreams…your home! This easy-to-follow infographic will show you what to expect along the path to home ownership:

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It is often said that buying a home is the most significant purchase you will make in your lifetime. It’s a major financial commitment and an important milestone, so you want to get it right. This means doing some homework and seeking professional guidance. A real estate agent can assist with your home search, but what about securing a loan? How do you find a mortgage professional you can trust to consider your best interests, help you select the right product, and guide you through each step of the home financing process? The following tips will help you conduct a thorough and efficient search for a lender you can rely on to help make your dreams of homeownership a reality!

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In a competitive housing market, bidding wars are a sign that competition is fierce among potential buyers. While competition can be good news for sellers, for those looking to buy, it may cause dilemmas once it’s time to submit an offer. In fact, a recent survey by Redfin found that competition is a top concern for buyers, second only to affordability. Buyers know they must put their very best offer on the table, with aggressive timelines and as few contingencies as possible. So, how does a buyer who is financing their purchase improve their chances of getting an offer accepted?

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Whether you’ve decided to sell your home, or buy one, aligning yourself with the right real estate professional can be an important first step.

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A recent Wall Street Journal article pointed out that real estate investors may be pushing young, first-time homebuyers out of the housing market. Low and mid-priced homes, which appeal to both first-time buyers and investors, are in tight supply. Investors are swooping in with all-cash offers only to turn around and rent out the properties. As rental rates skyrocket across the nation, investors stand to benefit while potential homebuyers are challenged by high rent that may prolong saving for a down payment. Is there a solution? Can buyers finance a home purchase and still put forth a strong enough offer to compete against all-cash? We asked Realtor® Dana Green to weigh in on how buyers can level the playing field.

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