There is no favorite listings!

Stop Paying Rent

How to Stop Paying Rent and Own Your Own Home

 

Don’t pay another cent in rent to your landlord! 

 

It’s a dream we all have – to own our own home and stop paying rent.  But if you’re like most renters, you feel trapped within the walls of a house or apartment that doesn’t feel like yours.  How could it when you’re not even permitted to bang in a nail or two without a hassle?  You feel like you’re stuck in the renter’s rut with no way of rising up out of it and owning your own home

Well, don’t feel trapped anymore!  It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been renting, or how insurmountable your financial situation may seem.  The truth is, there are some little known facts that can help you get over the hump, and transfer your status from renter to homeowner.  With this information, you will begin to see how you really can:

– save for a down payment

– stop lining your landlord’s pockets, and
– stop wasting thousands of dollars on rent.

 

6 Little Known Facts That Can Help You Buy Your First Home

 

The problem that most renters face isn’t your ability to meet a monthly payment. Goodness knows you must meet this monthly obligation every 30 days already. The problem is accumulating enough capital to make a down payment on something more permanent.

But saving for this lump sum doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might think.  Consider the following 6 important points:

You can buy a home with much less down than you think.

There are some local or federal government programs (such as 1st time buyer programs) to help people get into the housing market.  You can qualify as a first time buyer even if your spouse has  owned a home before as long as your name was not registered.  Ensure your real estate agent is informed and knowledgeable in this important area and can offer programs to help you with your options.

You may be able to get your lender to help you with your down payment and closing costs.

Even if you do not have enough cash for a down-payment, if you are debt-free, and own an asset free and clear (such as a car, for example), your lending institution may be able to lend you the down-payment for your home by securing it against this asset.

 

You may be able to find a seller to help you buy and finance your home.

Some sellers may be willing to hold a second mortgage for you as a “seller take-back.”  In this case, the seller becomes your lending institution.  Instead of paying this seller a lump-sum full amount for his or her home, you would pay monthly mortgage installments.

 

You may be able to create a cash down payment without actually going into debt.

By borrowing money for certain investments to a specified level, you may be able to generate a significant tax refund for yourself that you can use as a down-payment.  While the money borrowed for these investments is technically a loan, the monthly amount paid can be small, and the money invested in both home and investment will be yours in the end.

You can buy a home even if you have problems with your credit rating.

If you can come up with more than the minimum down-payment, or can secure the loan with other equity, many lending institutions will consider you for a mortgage.  Alternatively, a seller take-back mortgage could also help you in this situation.

 

You can, and should, get preapproved for a home loan before you go looking for a home.

Preapproval is easy, and can give you complete peace-of-mind when shopping for your home. Mortgage experts can obtain written preapproval for you at no cost and no obligation, and it can all be done quite easily over-the-phone.  More than just a verbal approval from your lending institution, a written preapproval is as good as money in the bank.  It entails a completed credit application, and a certificate which guarantees you a mortgage to the specified level when you find the home you’re looking for.

 

 

Consider dealing only with a professional who specializes in mortgages.  Enlisting their services can make the difference between obtaining a mortgage, and being stuck in the renter’s rut forever. Typically there is no cost or obligation to enquire.

To sum up, there are many important issues you should be aware of that affect you as a renter.  Why on earth would you continue to lose thousands by throwing it away on rent when with your agent you could take a few minutes to discuss your specific needs so that you can stop renting and start owning?

This conversation costs you nothing. And, of course, you shouldn’t have to feel obligated to buy a home at the time you review this.  But by taking the time to explore your options, and learn about the ways you can afford to buy a home, think how prepared and relaxed you’ll be when you are ready to make this important step.

9 Buyer Traps & How to Avoid Them

No matter which way you look at it, buying a home is a major investment.  But for many home buyers, it can be an even more expensive process than it needs to be because many fall prey to at least a few of the many common and costly mistakes which trap them into either:

* paying too much for the home they want, or
* losing their dream home to another buyer or,
* (worse) buying the wrong home for their needs.

A systemized approach to the home buying process can help you steer clear of these common traps, allowing you to not only cut costs, but also secure the home that’s best for you.

This important article discusses the 9 most common and costly of these homebuyer traps, how to identify them, and what you can do to avoid them.

 

The 9 Buyer Traps

Bidding Blind

What price should you offer when you bid on a home?  Is the seller’s asking price too high, or does it represent a great deal?  If you fail to research the market in order to understand what comparable homes are selling for, making your offer would be like bdding blind.  Without this knowledge of market value, you could easily bid too much, or fail to make a competitive offer at all on an excellent value.

 

Buying the Wrong Home.

 

What are you looking for in a home?  A simple enough question, but the answer can be quite complex.  More than one buyer has been swept up in the emotion and excitement of the buying process only to find themselves the owner of a home that is either too big or too small.  Maybe they’re stuck with a longer than desired commute to work, or a dozen more fix-ups than they really want to deal with now that the excitement has died down.  Take the time upfront to clearly define your wants and needs.  Put it in writing and then use it as a yard stick with which to measure every home you look at.

Unclear Title.

 

Make sure very early on in the negotiation that you will own your new home free and clear by having a title search completed.  The last thing you want to discover when you’re in the back stretch of a transaction is that there are encumbrances on the property such as tax liens, undisclosed owners, easements, leases or the like.

Inaccurate Survey.

As part of your offer to purchase, make sure you request an updated property survey which clearly marks your boundaries.  If the survey is not current, you may find that there are structural changes that are not shown (e.g. additions to the house, a new swimming pool, a neighbor’s new fence which is extending a boundary line, etc.).  Be very clear on these issues.

Undisclosed Fix-ups.

 

Don’t expect every seller to own up to every physical detail that will need to be attended to.  Both you and the seller are out to maximize your investment.  Ensure that you conduct a thorough inspection of the home early in the process.  Consider hiring an independent inspector to objectively view the home inside and out, and make the final contract contingent upon this inspector’s report.  This inspector should be able to give you a report of any item that needs to be fixed with associated, approximate cost.


Not Getting Mortgage Preapproval.

Preapproval is fast, easy and free.  When you have a preapproved mortgage, you can shop for your home with a greater sense of freedom and security, knowing that the money will be there when you find the home of your dreams.

 

Contract Misses.

If a seller fails to comply to the letter of the contract by neglecting to attend to some repair issues, or changing the spirit of the agreement in some way, this could delay the final closing and settlement.  Agree ahead of time on a dollar amount for an escrow fund to cover items that the seller fails to follow through on. Prepare a list of agreed issues, walk through them, and check them off one by one.

 Hidden Costs.

 

Make sure you identify and uncover all costs – large and small – far enough ahead of time.  When a transaction closes, you will sometimes find fees for this or that sneaking through after the “sub”-total – fees such as loan disbursement charges, underwriting fees etc.  Understand these in advance by having your lender project total charges for you in writing.

 

 

 

Rushing the Closing.

Take your time during this critical part of the process, and insist on seeing all paperwork the day before you sign.  Make sure this documentation perfectly reflects your understanding of the transaction, and that nothing has been added or subtracted.  Is the interest rate right?  Is everything covered?  If you rush this process on the day of closing, you may run into a last minute snag that you can’t fix without compromising the terms of the deal, the financing, or even the sale itself.

One More Tip…

Find out if your agent offers a Buyer Profile System or “House-hunting Service,” which takes the guesswork out of finding just the right home that matches your needs.  This type of program will crossmatch your criteria with ALL available homes on the market and supply you with printed information on an on-going basis. A program like this can help you to affordably move into
the home of your dreams.

Sort Option
  • Listing ID
  • Total Finished Area
  • Price
  • Add date
  • Listing Status
Grid
List
Map
RSS

Residential For Sale

161 Bay Loch Road, Lakevale, NS B2G 2L2

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
47Picture(s)
916Sqft
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
C$499900

Residential For Sale

161 Bay Loch Road, Lakevale, NS B2G 2L2
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
916Sqft
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
Welcome to your seaside Sanctuary! This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath cottage-style home is perfectly situated on the sparkling shores of the Northumberland Strait, offering direct ocean access and a stunning beachfront backyard-the ultimate setting for summer memories or peaceful year-round living.
C$499900

Residential For Sale

161 Bay Loch Road, Lakevale, NS B2G 2L2
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

2 Frederick Avenue, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
4,338Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
C$689000

Residential For Sale

2 Frederick Avenue, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
4,338Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
Experience breathtaking country living - with an easy commute to Halifax. Come enjoy your new home! Complete with a 2 stall, 2 storey barn, veggie patch, greenhouse, gazebo and an expansive landscaped property, it gives you all the space and privacy you could want. The house is tastefully finished with a beautiful kitchen, ideal for entertaining, a main floor office, and a renovated ensuite.
C$689000

Residential For Sale

2 Frederick Avenue, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$689000

Residential For Sale

20 Park Street, Amherst, NS B4H 2R1

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
12Picture(s)
1,188Sqft
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
C$139900

Residential For Sale

20 Park Street, Amherst, NS B4H 2R1
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,188Sqft
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
Nice started home for a young family. This home is located near the Lions Park and new West Highlands School. The home has been drywalled and freshly painted, hot water heater has been recently replaced and furnace and electrical panel are in good shape.
C$139900

Residential For Sale

20 Park Street, Amherst, NS B4H 2R1
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$139900

Residential For Sale

476 Main Street Suite 105, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
38Picture(s)
1,402Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
C$399900

Residential For Sale

476 Main Street Suite 105, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
1,402Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
Condo Living by the Sea – Welcome to The Quinlan in Mahone Bay! Now this is coastal living without compromise. Set in the heart of Mahone Bay, one of Nova Scotia’s most charming seaside towns, this condo puts you just steps from everything—cafés, restaurants, waterfront festivals, boutique shops, and nightly music at the bandstand.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

476 Main Street Suite 105, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399900

Residential For Sale

11905 Highway 1, Brickton, NS B0S 1M0

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
37Picture(s)
983Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Greenwood)
C$300000

Residential For Sale

11905 Highway 1, Brickton, NS B0S 1M0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
983Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Greenwood)
Shows like new! This Prestige mini home has been very well kept, with the perfect amount of space both inside and out! The unique layout was customized by the original owner and offers a split bedroom floorplan and lots of storage throughout. Flooded with natural light, the open concept living room features an efficient heat pump and patio doors leading to the large backyard deck.
C$300000

Residential For Sale

11905 Highway 1, Brickton, NS B0S 1M0
Royal LePage Atlantic (Greenwood)
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$300000

Residential For Sale

57-193 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
6Picture(s)
1,958Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$636400

Residential For Sale

57-193 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,958Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Rooftight Homes is proud to introduce "Katie" in Carriagewood Estates, Beaver Bank Halifax Nova Scotia. This thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom 2-storey home, finished on all three levels and packed with incredible value.
C$636400

Residential For Sale

57-193 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$636400

Residential For Sale

12 Angies Walk, Milford, NS B0N 1Y0

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,460Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$499900

Residential For Sale

12 Angies Walk, Milford, NS B0N 1Y0
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,460Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
This immaculately maintained home offers a bright, multi-level layout with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, nestled on a beautifully landscaped lot with a private backyard. The main level welcomes you into a spacious living room with natural light, while just a few steps up are three well-sized bedrooms and a full bath. The kitchen and dining area overlook the backyard, perfect for indoor-outdoor living.
C$499900

Residential For Sale

12 Angies Walk, Milford, NS B0N 1Y0
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

14 Moirs Mill Road, Bedford, NS B4A 3Y6

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AssignedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,730Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
C$519900

Residential For Sale

14 Moirs Mill Road, Bedford, NS B4A 3Y6
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AssignedParking(s)
1,730Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
Welcome to carefree condo living in the heart of Bedford! This beautifully maintained three-level townhouse condo offers the perfect blend of space, style, and convenience—just steps from Paper Mill Lake, DeWolf Park, shops, restaurants, and more. Enjoy an easier lifestyle where exterior maintenance is taken care of and all you have to do is move in and enjoy.
C$519900

Residential For Sale

14 Moirs Mill Road, Bedford, NS B4A 3Y6
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$519900

Residential For Sale

18 Wild Rose Lane, Ingonish, NS B0C 1L0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
43Picture(s)
1,039Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
C$485000

Residential For Sale

18 Wild Rose Lane, Ingonish, NS B0C 1L0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,039Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
A rare opportunity to own a beachfront property on the prized North Bay Beach in Ingonish. Located on one of the most sought-after stretches of shoreline, 18 Wild Rose Lane is a cherished family cottage that has been lovingly cared for and enjoyed for generations. This property offers endless beach days and captivating views of the coast and out to Middle Head Peninsula.
C$485000

Residential For Sale

18 Wild Rose Lane, Ingonish, NS B0C 1L0
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$485000

Residential For Sale

94 Cottagedale Crescent, Sydney, NS B1P 6T8

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,138Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
C$535900

Residential For Sale

94 Cottagedale Crescent, Sydney, NS B1P 6T8
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
3,138Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
Wonderful curb appeal with this home at 94 Cottagedale Crescent in Sydney. This home is impeccably maintained and is situated in one of Sydney's most desirable neighborhoods. This property offers the best of both worlds: peaceful privacy and proximity to all amenities, including the hospital, schools, downtown core, and the highway.
C$535900

Residential For Sale

94 Cottagedale Crescent, Sydney, NS B1P 6T8
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$535900

Residential For Sale

32 Forman Street, North Sydney, NS B2A 3K4

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
9Picture(s)
1,000Sqft
W. Black & Son Real Estate Ltd.
C$69000

Residential For Sale

32 Forman Street, North Sydney, NS B2A 3K4
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
1,000Sqft
W. Black & Son Real Estate Ltd.
Looking for a fixer upper ? This home has lots of potential , nice size corner lot, Newer main roofing shingles , 100 amp breakers. Home did leak on one side of the home but owner put new roof shingles on it but did not do the ceilings in the bedrooms on one side. Owner recently removed the ceiling so its open to fix as required.
C$69000

Residential For Sale

32 Forman Street, North Sydney, NS B2A 3K4
W. Black & Son Real Estate Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$69000

Residential For Sale

35679 Cabot Trail, Ingonish, NS B0C 1K0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
49Picture(s)
1,800Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
C$599000

Residential For Sale

35679 Cabot Trail, Ingonish, NS B0C 1K0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,800Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
Located in beautiful North Ingonish, this lovingly maintained four-bedroom chalet-style home sits on 8 acres of level and treed land, offering a private retreat with ample potential. Just minutes from the beach, the entrance to the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, local restaurants, and other convenience and attractions.
C$599000

Residential For Sale

35679 Cabot Trail, Ingonish, NS B0C 1K0
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599000
4886 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern