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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

587 Highway 203, Carleton, NS B5A 5R3

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
47Picture(s)
1,815Sqft
The Real Estate Store
C$639900

Residential For Sale

587 Highway 203, Carleton, NS B5A 5R3
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,815Sqft
The Real Estate Store
How about a private lakefront property situated on 12.72 acres. 587 Highway 203, Carleton is 25 minutes from Yarmouth on Mink Lake. Lots of open space on the main level with one bedroom and bathroom and on the lower level there is an additional bedroom and 3 piece bath. The home has been well kept over the years and enjoyed by the current owners.
C$639900

Residential For Sale

587 Highway 203, Carleton, NS B5A 5R3
The Real Estate Store
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$639900

Residential For Sale

2757 Poplar Drive Coldbrook, Coldbrook, NS B4R 1A8

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
40Picture(s)
1,649Sqft
RE/MAX Advantage
C$475000

Residential For Sale

2757 Poplar Drive Coldbrook, Coldbrook, NS B4R 1A8
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,649Sqft
RE/MAX Advantage
From start to finish this property suits many lifestyles. Located in a popular neighborhood seconds to Coldbrook P-8 school and minutes to highway access, a quick drive to the local lake and shopping. The community itself is welcoming and filled with families of all ages. Inside this home, has been lovingly cared for with not a detail missed.
C$475000

Residential For Sale

2757 Poplar Drive Coldbrook, Coldbrook, NS B4R 1A8
RE/MAX Advantage
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$475000

Residential For Sale

76 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
46Picture(s)
2,403Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$725000

Residential For Sale

76 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,403Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Looking for a legal self-contained secondary suite? Welcome to another Savvy Home build! This stunning new construction home in the heart of Carriagewood Estates offers modern elegance, spacious living, and ultimate convenience. With over 2,400 sq. ft.
C$725000

Residential For Sale

76 Darner Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4G 0E2
RE/MAX Nova
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$725000

Residential For Sale

25b Spry Avenue, Spryfield, NS B3P 1X1

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
38Picture(s)
2,896Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$749900

Residential For Sale

25b Spry Avenue, Spryfield, NS B3P 1X1
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,896Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Looking for an investment property? This new construction fourplex is the perfect opportunity! Designed as a side-by-side duplex, each upper unit features three bedrooms plus a den, while the lower level offers two spacious one-bedroom apartments - ideal for generating steady rental income. The lower units are a ground level entry which makes the lower units very accessible.
C$749900

Residential For Sale

25b Spry Avenue, Spryfield, NS B3P 1X1
RE/MAX Nova
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$749900

Residential For Sale

92 Chemin Simeon Aucoin Road, St. Joseph Du Moine, NS B0E 3A0

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,582Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$699900

Residential For Sale

92 Chemin Simeon Aucoin Road, St. Joseph Du Moine, NS B0E 3A0
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
2,582Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
Stunning oceanfront property located in Cape Breton overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with over 5 acres of property and amazing ocean views! This contemporary four bedroom detached home has 3 full baths, 2 kitchens, a large main floor living room with propane fireplace, cathedral ceilings and large bay windows offering amazing sunset views, a large kitchen with breakfast nook, a main floor laundry, a
C$699900

Residential For Sale

92 Chemin Simeon Aucoin Road, St. Joseph Du Moine, NS B0E 3A0
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$699900

Residential For Sale

3 Maceachern Loop, Lower South River, NS B2G 2L4

6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
47Picture(s)
2,688Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$624999

Residential For Sale

3 Maceachern Loop, Lower South River, NS B2G 2L4
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,688Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Welcome to 3 Maceachern Loop, a charming and well-maintained home located in Antigonish. This inviting property offers the perfect balance of comfort, functionality, and thoughtful layout — ideal for families, professionals, or anyone seeking a relaxed lifestyle close to town amenities.
C$624999

Residential For Sale

3 Maceachern Loop, Lower South River, NS B2G 2L4
RE/MAX Nova
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$624999

Residential For Sale

5030 Boars Back Road, River Hebert, NS B0M 1G0

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
Circular DrivewayParking(s)
40Picture(s)
1,058Sqft
RE/MAX County Line Realty Ltd.
C$137000

Residential For Sale

5030 Boars Back Road, River Hebert, NS B0M 1G0
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
Circular DrivewayParking(s)
1,058Sqft
RE/MAX County Line Realty Ltd.
STORY & HALF HOME located in River Hebert! The main floor offers front & back porch and bonus room, good size kitchen, 4pc bath, living room & dining room. Upstairs you will find 4 bedrooms! The home is heated with 1 mini split heat pump & oil forced air. The property also houses a large barn. This property is just 10 minutes to beautiful Lower Cove beach and just 25 minutes to Amherst.
C$137000

Residential For Sale

5030 Boars Back Road, River Hebert, NS B0M 1G0
RE/MAX County Line Realty Ltd.
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$137000

Residential For Sale

55 Birch Hill Drive, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,024Sqft
J.F. MacIvor Properties
C$439500

Residential For Sale

55 Birch Hill Drive, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,024Sqft
J.F. MacIvor Properties
Exceptional home in Pristine Condition - First time on the market. Welcome to 55 Birch Hill Drive, Stellarton - a meticulously maintained, never before listed home that exemplifies turn key living. This stunning four-bedroom, two bathroom residence is fully finished on both levels and showcases an open concept main floor with a beautiful hardwood staircase as its centerpiece.
C$439500

Residential For Sale

55 Birch Hill Drive, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0
J.F. MacIvor Properties
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$439500

Residential For Sale

58 Highrigger Crescent, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 2Z7

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
35Picture(s)
1,258Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$399900

Residential For Sale

58 Highrigger Crescent, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 2Z7
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,258Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Welcome Home to 58 Highrigger! This beautiful home has a bright main level, including a spacious living room, dining area, and a stylish kitchen with breakfast bar. Step out through the garden door to the good sized deck with gazebo, overlooking the fully fenced yard. A 2 piece bathroom completes the main level.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

58 Highrigger Crescent, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 2Z7
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399900

Residential For Sale

15 Birchwood Terrace, Dartmouth, NS B3A 3W2

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
PavedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,904Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
C$539900

Residential For Sale

15 Birchwood Terrace, Dartmouth, NS B3A 3W2
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
PavedParking(s)
1,904Sqft
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
Step into this beautifully upgraded home in the heart of Crichton Park, just across from BRIGHWOOD GOLF COURSE. Perfect for the young professionals or couples looking to downsize, this move in ready home combines comfort, style and an unbeatable location.
C$539900

Residential For Sale

15 Birchwood Terrace, Dartmouth, NS B3A 3W2
Royal LePage Anchor Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$539900

Residential For Sale

10353 Marble Mountain Road, Orangedale, NS B0E 2K0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,628Sqft
Engel & Volkers
C$499900

Residential For Sale

10353 Marble Mountain Road, Orangedale, NS B0E 2K0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,628Sqft
Engel & Volkers
Welcome to 10353 Marble Mountain Road - This remarkable property, located just 5 minutes from Orangedale NS, offers the perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty in scenic Cape Breton. Covering +/- 98 acres, it features approximately 2,981 feet of water frontage along the picturesque Bras d'Or Lake, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for water-based activities.
C$499900

Residential For Sale

10353 Marble Mountain Road, Orangedale, NS B0E 2K0
Engel & Volkers
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

15 Rampart Court, Beechville, NS B3T 0B0

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2Picture(s)
2,197Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$689900

Residential For Sale

15 Rampart Court, Beechville, NS B3T 0B0
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2,197Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
Welcome to Lovett Lake! New construction at its best!! This four bedroom, 3.5 bath detached home will sure to please the whole family. Spacious living area, eat in kitchen with dining room, great place to entertain family and friends.
C$689900

Residential For Sale

15 Rampart Court, Beechville, NS B3T 0B0
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$689900
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