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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.

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Residential For Sale

6875 Highway 4, Linacy, NS B2H 5C4

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
49Picture(s)
2,492Sqft
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
C$379000

Residential For Sale

6875 Highway 4, Linacy, NS B2H 5C4
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,492Sqft
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
Welcome home to Linacy! This very nice, oversized bungalow is situated on a beautiful lot, backing on the Glen Lovat golf course. Peace, quiet, and privacy are yours to enjoy. With 4 bedrooms on the main level and potential for another on the lower level, a walk out from the lower level, a chicken coup, and a two bay 2 floor garage, the possibilities are endless with this property.
C$379000

Residential For Sale

6875 Highway 4, Linacy, NS B2H 5C4
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$379000

Residential For Sale

4283 Shore Road W, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
41Picture(s)
1,360Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
C$319000

Residential For Sale

4283 Shore Road W, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,360Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
Amazing 3-bedroom bungalow overlooking the Parkers Cove harbour and Bay of Fundy. This lovingly cared for home features main floor bedrooms and bathroom, hardwood flooring, a beautiful year-round sunroom, huge screened in porch, and front deck. The basement has a family room with wood stove, a cold room, a large workshop, and storage with a level walkout to the back yard.
C$319000

Residential For Sale

4283 Shore Road W, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$319000

Residential For Sale

1082 Main Shore Road, North Chegoggin, NS B5A 5H2

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
16Picture(s)
750Sqft
The Real Estate Store
C$224900

Residential For Sale

1082 Main Shore Road, North Chegoggin, NS B5A 5H2
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
750Sqft
The Real Estate Store
Welcome to 1082 Main Shore Road. This 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom Maple Leaf home is set on over 30 acres, offering a peaceful rural lifestyle just 10 minutes from Yarmouth. The property features a long driveway for privacy, a natural creek, and plenty of space for outdoor activities, hobbies, or future development.
C$224900

Residential For Sale

1082 Main Shore Road, North Chegoggin, NS B5A 5H2
The Real Estate Store
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$224900

Residential For Sale

20 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0

4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
C$1624999

Residential For Sale

20 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
Punctuated by heritage, character and culture, Harb’rStone Village at Fox Harb’r Resort features 18 spacious 3,000 sq. ft. two-story townhomes. Artisanal design as well as modern and elegant detailing underscore every aspect of these beautifully imagined spaces, inspired by Nova Scotia’s maritime history.
C$1624999

Residential For Sale

20 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$1624999

Residential For Sale

33 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0

4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
C$1724999

Residential For Sale

33 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
Punctuated by heritage, character and culture, Harb’rStone Village at Fox Harb’r Resort features 18 spacious 3,000 sq. ft. two-story townhomes. Artisanal design as well as modern and elegant detailing underscore every aspect of these beautifully imagined spaces, inspired by Nova Scotia’s maritime history.
C$1724999

Residential For Sale

33 Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$1724999

Residential For Sale

40a Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0

4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
C$499998

Residential For Sale

40a Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
Quarter ownership is an easy way to purchase recreational property for one simple reason; it makes sense from a lifestyle and financial perspective. Punctuated by heritage, character and culture, Harb’rStone Village at Fox Harb’r Resort features 18 spacious 3,000 sq. ft. two-story townhomes.
C$499998

Residential For Sale

40a Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$499998

Residential For Sale

2683-87 Fuller Terrace, Halifax Peninsula, NS B3K 3V9

6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
48Picture(s)
2,550Sqft
PLUMB LINE REALTY INC. - 12234
C$839000

Residential For Sale

2683-87 Fuller Terrace, Halifax Peninsula, NS B3K 3V9
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
2,550Sqft
PLUMB LINE REALTY INC. - 12234
After forty years of ownership this property is offered for sale. A property like this in a quiet downtown area is rarely available. Located in one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in all of Halifax, famous for its great community spirit. Artists abound. Coffee shops, restaurants, downtown, Stadacona and entertainment are all within walking distance.
C$839000

Residential For Sale

2683-87 Fuller Terrace, Halifax Peninsula, NS B3K 3V9
PLUMB LINE REALTY INC. - 12234
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$839000

Residential For Sale

52c Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0

4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
C$474998

Residential For Sale

52c Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,012Sqft
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
Quarter ownership is an easy way to purchase recreational property for one simple reason; it makes sense from a lifestyle and financial perspective. Punctuated by heritage, character and culture, Harb’rStone Village at Fox Harb’r Resort features 18 spacious 3,000 sq. ft. two-story townhomes.
C$474998

Residential For Sale

52c Spinnaker Run, Fox Harbour, NS B0K 1Y0
Coldwell Banker Maritime Realty
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$474998

Residential For Sale

3359 West Bay Rd, St. Georges Channel, NS B0E 3K0

2Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,468Sqft
Cape Breton Realty
C$595000

Residential For Sale

3359 West Bay Rd, St. Georges Channel, NS B0E 3K0
2Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,468Sqft
Cape Breton Realty
Beautiful Waterfront Home Just 5 Minutes from Dundee Golf Resort Ideal as a primary residence, vacation home, or rental property.
C$595000

Residential For Sale

3359 West Bay Rd, St. Georges Channel, NS B0E 3K0
Cape Breton Realty
2Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$595000

Residential For Sale

2815 Main Shore Road Road, Port Maitland, NS B5A 5C4

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
24Picture(s)
2,219Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
C$775000

Residential For Sale

2815 Main Shore Road Road, Port Maitland, NS B5A 5C4
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
2,219Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
So....If you wanted an ideal setting, you'd take over 2200 feet of oceanfront, add in your own huge, freshwater pond and then create gardens galore! But... to really do it right, you'd make sure you did all of this within your own, private, secluded 41-acre property.
C$775000

Residential For Sale

2815 Main Shore Road Road, Port Maitland, NS B5A 5C4
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$775000

Residential For Sale

389 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0

5Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
29Picture(s)
2,600Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
C$519900

Residential For Sale

389 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0
5Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,600Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Nestled on a beautiful, private 2+ acre lot just minutes from the community of Greenwood, this stunning 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of recent upgrades and serene country living. Ideal for families or those seeking space and tranquility, this property is a rare find! Step inside to discover a beautifully renovated interior, featuring a brand-new kitchen with modern finishes.
C$519900

Residential For Sale

389 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0
Exit Realty Town & Country
5Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$519900

Residential For Sale

7068 Highway 1, St. Alphonse, NS B0W 2J0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
49Picture(s)
2,064Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate(Yarmouth)
C$392000

Residential For Sale

7068 Highway 1, St. Alphonse, NS B0W 2J0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,064Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate(Yarmouth)
Are you looking for a well-built home just minutes from the sandy shores of Mavillette Beach? Welcome to this inviting executive bungalow that blends comfort, character, and thoughtful details throughout. Step inside to a bright and spacious main floor featuring an eat-in kitchen with patio doors that open to a large deck - perfect for summer evenings and family gatherings.
C$392000

Residential For Sale

7068 Highway 1, St. Alphonse, NS B0W 2J0
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate(Yarmouth)
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$392000
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