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Monday, October 27, 2008

Free Websites To Advertise Your Home FSBO

Listing your home with photos on the internet is a must if selling your home for sale by owner. If you are not using a realtor or the MLS, you should advertise your home anywhere you can. Try looking for a local for sale by owner website first. You can also try these FREE websites:


http://www.owners.com
http://usfreeads.com/_real-estate/
http://www.homeportfoliojunction.com
http://www.kijiji.com/
http://www.allthelistings.com/
http://www.househitz.com/
http://www.10realty.com
http://www.houselist.com/
http://www.homesalewizard.com/
http://www.fsboads.com/
http://www.oodle.com/housing/sale/

You may also want to list your home locally at http://www.craigslist.org

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Thursday, October 09, 2008

Earnest Money Deposit & Your Real Estate Contract

Is an earnest money deposit really necessary when filling out a real estate contract? Many real estate professional agree that an earnest money deposit will show the seller that you are a serious buyer. Earnest money deposits are usually for 3-5% of the offer price, depending on the market, and local customs. Many buyers add a clause in real estate contracts stating that the contract is contingent upon a buyer being able to obtain financing. This way if your financing falls through, you are more likely to get your earnest money deposit back. If all goes well and your financing goes through and you get to closing, the earnest money deposit is given as a credit toward what you will owe at the closing. It is possible to loose your earnest money deposit. One example would be if all the conditions of the real estate contract were met, but the buyer decided at the last minute not to buy the home, then the seller would most likely get to keep the earnest money deposit. If there are any doubts you should contact a real estate attorney.

To see a sample real estate contract visit:
http://www.legalhomeforms.com/sample.htm

Tuesday, October 07, 2008

The Truth about Rent to Own (Real Estate)

A lot of things have been heard, talked and asked about the words “rent to own.” For many, this seems a very good deal, as anyone can have the chance to eventually own the place he is renting. This business has made numerous companies’ fortunes and include such places as Prime Time and Rent A Center. But if truth were to be told, very few would go this route, except for those who have bad credit difficulties.

Most people are usually attracted to this scheme because some can be paid off by only a few dollars a week. Payments usually last about 15-20 months. However, if you regularly keep tab of the list of all your payments, you will eventually realize that you are paying double the price, or more than what you would give for a mortgage. This is a steep price to pay, especially for those who have good credit standing.

In addition, part of the terms and conditions in a rent to own scheme is sales tax, which you will have to pay on top of the mortgage fee. Again, even though this can be attractive to those without good credit, better and cheaper deals can be made with direct purchase through mortgage.

There are also instances when rent to own houses start out as purely a lease agreement with the owner, who decides in time to sell it to you. Luckily, you will find an owner who is flexible and work out things with you to get the price he might want for his house. But beware of those who will charge you more in order to make a handsome profit. This is usually done by extending the duration of paying period.

Indeed, rent to own may not be the best way to buy a home, but for those who have fewer options, this is a better alternative than paying rent for an apartment. With rent to own houses, you are not just paying rent but paying to eventually own a home.

The best thing to do in these circumstances would be to make sure of the terms and conditions of the sale with the owner, how much you will be paying and for how long. In this way, you and the owner will both end up satisfied with the deal.

Friday, October 03, 2008

Political Yard Signs & Selling Your Home

Is it OK to have political yard signs out before an election while trying to sell a house? Some say that this is probably not a good idea. Your Obama or McCain sign could detract from the MOST important sign in the yard...the FOR SALE sign.

Political signs shouldn't be a factor, but why risk it. The smallest thing can kill a real estate deal and you never know what might step in the way of a successful negotiation. Real estate agents suggest that you should make the interior of your home as neutral as possible (paint colors, furniture, etc) so why should the outside of your home be any different. Yes, everyone has a right to their opionion but you might turn off a potential buyer with a particular endorsement. Selling a home in today's market it is challenging enough without adding politics to the mix.