Buying your home

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Welcome

Appraisals & Market Value (4)

Are there standard ways to determine how much a home is worth?
How do you determine how much a home is worth?
What about appraised value and market value?
What is the difference between list price and sales price?

Getting Started (5)

How do you decide whether to add on to an existing home or purchase a new one?
How much can I afford?
Is it best to save for the ultimate dream home or begin with a less expensive starter home?
What are the advantages of owning a home?
What is the first step to buying a home?

Insurance (5)

Is private mortgage insurance necessary?
What about title insurance?
What does homeowners’ insurance cover?
What is condo and co-op insurance?
What kind of home insurance should I get?

Negotiating & Closing the Best Deal (7)

Are low-ball offers a good idea?
Can you negotiate interest rates?
Do I need an attorney to buy a home?
Does the seller take the furnishings once the home is sold?
Is it possible to buy a home below market price?
What are some negotiating tips?
What contingencies should appear in the offer?

Tax Matters (4)

Are fees and assessments owed a homeowner’s association deductible?
Are there tax credits for first-time homebuyers?
Are up-front fees and closing costs deductible?
How can owning a home pay off at tax time?

Closing Costs (3)

Is it possible to save on closing costs?
Is there anything I should know about closing day?
What are closing costs?

Home Inspections (4)

Do I need to be at the inspection?
How do I select a home inspector?
Should I hire a home inspector?
What does a home inspector do?

Lease Options (2)

How does a lease option work?
What is a lease option?

Property Taxes (6)

Are impound accounts required for all mortgage loans?
Are property taxes deductible?
Can I contest my property taxes?
How are individual tax bills figured?
What is an impound account?
Why do homeowners have to pay property taxes?

Working with a Real Estate Agent (5)

Are buyers protected against housing discrimination?
Can I use an agent to purchase a newly built home?
What can I expect from a good real estate agent?
What is the best way to find a real estate agent?
Why do I need an agent if I can find a home by myself on the Internet?