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

10 Fader Street, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1P3

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,533Sqft
Sutton Group Professional Realty
C$599900

Residential For Sale

10 Fader Street, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1P3
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,533Sqft
Sutton Group Professional Realty
If you're on the hunt for the perfect family home in a welcoming neighborhood, 10 Fader Street might be the ideal match for you! This charming residence boasts three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms (main level bathroom is brand new with audio and beautiful stand up shower), making it a comfortable fit for families of all sizes.
C$599900

Residential For Sale

10 Fader Street, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1P3
Sutton Group Professional Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599900

Residential For Sale

1178 Highway 1, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
47Picture(s)
1,544Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
C$479900

Residential For Sale

1178 Highway 1, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,544Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
Looking for that starter home and a quality built home with ICF foundation and high efficiency electric boiler are just a few features !!Oh and a view of Piggott lake and there is lake access and a boat launch for residences . This home just had brand new roof shingles put on, all new flooring on the upper level, freshly painted .
C$479900

Residential For Sale

1178 Highway 1, Lakelands, NS B0N 1Z0
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$479900

Residential For Sale

10 High Street Estates, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4B8

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
26Picture(s)
992Sqft
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
C$149900

Residential For Sale

10 High Street Estates, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4B8
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
992Sqft
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
Just move in and enjoy. This 2 bedroom mini home has been well maintained with newer hot water tank, recently installed flooring, and 2 doorsteps. Fridge, stove, washer, dryer and dishwasher are included as well as a 10x10 shed. Located in a family friendly neighborhood.
C$149900

Residential For Sale

10 High Street Estates, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4B8
Results Realty Atlantic Inc.
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$149900

Residential For Sale

192 Gabriel Road, Falmouth, NS B0P 1L0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
45Picture(s)
2,353Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
C$539900

Residential For Sale

192 Gabriel Road, Falmouth, NS B0P 1L0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,353Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
A family home reimagined top to bottom, inside and out. From the moment you pull into the paved driveway, you can feel the care that’s gone into this home. Completely renovated with family in mind, this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom bungalow blends comfort, function, and style ready for new memories to be made.
C$539900

Residential For Sale

192 Gabriel Road, Falmouth, NS B0P 1L0
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$539900

Residential For Sale

958 Main Street, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,013Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Lunenburg)
C$989000

Residential For Sale

958 Main Street, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,013Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Lunenburg)
This gorgeous seaside home sits just on the edge of the highly desirable and picturesque Town of Mahone Bay. A short stroll or bike ride brings you to the town’s charming shops, restaurants, galleries, and more. Inside, the home blends timeless character with thoughtful modern updates.
C$989000

Residential For Sale

958 Main Street, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Lunenburg)
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$989000

Residential For Sale

30 Pepperbush Court, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3J9

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
48Picture(s)
2,382Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
C$699900

Residential For Sale

30 Pepperbush Court, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3J9
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,382Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
Set on just under 2 acres of serene, tree-lined privacy, this beautifully updated 2-storey home is the perfect blend of comfort, style, and laid-back luxury. With 3 generously sized bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a double attached garage, there’s room to grow, gather, and enjoy every moment.
C$699900

Residential For Sale

30 Pepperbush Court, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3J9
Exit Real Estate Professionals
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$699900

Residential For Sale

74 Bosun Run, Rockingham, NS B3M 4W4

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
36Picture(s)
2,412Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$598500

Residential For Sale

74 Bosun Run, Rockingham, NS B3M 4W4
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,412Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom townhouse featuring breathtaking ocean side views and thoughtful design throughout. The main level boasts an open-concept kitchen flowing into a spacious living and dining area, perfect for entertaining. With a total of three decks, this home offers a variety of scenic perspectives — including a top-level deck with a magnificent view of the ocean.
C$598500

Residential For Sale

74 Bosun Run, Rockingham, NS B3M 4W4
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$598500

Residential For Sale

343 Peter Dugas Road, Meteghan, NS B0W 2J0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
26Picture(s)
1,675Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
C$399000

Residential For Sale

343 Peter Dugas Road, Meteghan, NS B0W 2J0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,675Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
Welcome to your new home! This stunning two-story, four-bedroom residence offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Situated near local amenities and an elementary school, this home is ideal for families. Step inside to discover spacious bedrooms with ample storage, including a luxurious primary suite with a private balcony and his and her closets.
C$399000

Residential For Sale

343 Peter Dugas Road, Meteghan, NS B0W 2J0
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399000

Residential For Sale

104-69 69 Kings Road, Sydney, NS B1S 3X4

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
22Picture(s)
750Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
C$419000

Residential For Sale

104-69 69 Kings Road, Sydney, NS B1S 3X4
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
750Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
Welcome to your move-in ready urban retreat! This beautifully renovated 1-bedroom condo is perfectly situated in the heart of downtown, just steps from the boardwalk, trendy shops, top-rated restaurants, and all the amenities you could want — no car needed!Located on the main floor, this unit offers unmatched convenience with zero stairs and no waiting for elevators — ideal for easy access.
C$419000

Residential For Sale

104-69 69 Kings Road, Sydney, NS B1S 3X4
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$419000

Residential For Sale

46 Sunset Drive, Caribou Island, NS B0K 1H0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DirtParking(s)
40Picture(s)
749Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$299999

Residential For Sale

46 Sunset Drive, Caribou Island, NS B0K 1H0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DirtParking(s)
749Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Perched above a beautiful beach at the head of Caribou Island and nestled between the picturesque lighthouse and Waterside Provincial Park, this seaside gem offers stunning dawn-to-dusk views of the Northumberland Strait.
C$299999

Residential For Sale

46 Sunset Drive, Caribou Island, NS B0K 1H0
Royal LePage Atlantic
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$299999

Residential For Sale

6585 Highway 221, Lakeville, NS B4N 3V7

5Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
38Picture(s)
4,507Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$679900

Residential For Sale

6585 Highway 221, Lakeville, NS B4N 3V7
5Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
4,507Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Welcome to 6585 Highway 221, located just minutes away from the town of Kentville, Nova Scotia - a property brimming with potential! This stunning country residence has been extensively and expertly renovated to feature 5 bedrooms, each with their own ensuite bathroom. The layout includes a lofted suite with two bedrooms, a cozy living area, and a lovely three-piece bathroom.
C$679900

Residential For Sale

6585 Highway 221, Lakeville, NS B4N 3V7
Royal LePage Atlantic
5Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$679900

Residential For Sale

180 Noonan Drive, Prospect, NS B3T 2H2

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
41Picture(s)
2,342Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$949900

Residential For Sale

180 Noonan Drive, Prospect, NS B3T 2H2
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,342Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Welcome to 180 Noonan Drive ...this home is INCREDIBLE in every sense of the word, from the meticulous renovations since 2023 and the unbelievable Ocean views from every room, on both levels, you will be breath taken! Take a Drive to this home today to view, walk through the front door to discover what captivating views of the Ocean can be like.
C$949900

Residential For Sale

180 Noonan Drive, Prospect, NS B3T 2H2
Keller Williams Select Realty
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$949900
4921 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern