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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

215 Cloverdale Drive, Martock, NS B0N 2T0

7Bedroom(s)
6Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
40Picture(s)
6,411Sqft
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
C$995000

Residential For Sale

215 Cloverdale Drive, Martock, NS B0N 2T0
7Bedroom(s)
6Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
6,411Sqft
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
Located along the Avon River with 300' of waterfront, this multi-unit offers exceptional opportunity for owner occupied income property, multi-generational living, or adding to your investment portfolio. The main house is a split entry with open kitchen, dining, and living space, a primary bedroom with private lounge space, and a 4 piece bath.
C$995000

Residential For Sale

215 Cloverdale Drive, Martock, NS B0N 2T0
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
7Bedroom(s)
6Bathroom(s)
C$995000

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404 Starboard Drive, Halifax, NS B3M 0L4

4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,255Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$1049900

Residential For Sale

404 Starboard Drive, Halifax, NS B3M 0L4
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
3,255Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Welcome to 404 Starboard dr . The main level boasts a spacious, open-concept kitchen that seamlessly flows into the great room, featuring a cozy fireplace—perfect for family gatherings and entertaining guests. Enjoy engineered hardwood, hard surface countertops and ample kitchen space, creating an inviting atmosphere.
C$1049900

Residential For Sale

404 Starboard Drive, Halifax, NS B3M 0L4
RE/MAX Nova
4Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
C$1049900

Residential For Sale

8599 Highway 1, Meteghan Centre, NS B0W 2K0

5Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
5Picture(s)
1,844Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
C$129000

Residential For Sale

8599 Highway 1, Meteghan Centre, NS B0W 2K0
5Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,844Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
This spacious five-bedroom home offers plenty of potential for those looking to bring their own touch to a property with great bones. Located near a charming seaside village in Nova Scotia, the home enjoys an ocean view that can be appreciated from the side porch. The main floor features a large living room, a dining area just off it, and a roomy kitchen toward the back of the home.
C$129000

Residential For Sale

8599 Highway 1, Meteghan Centre, NS B0W 2K0
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
5Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$129000

Residential For Sale

22 Carisbrooke Lane, Cole Harbour, NS B2V 1R2

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
32Picture(s)
2,630Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$589900

Residential For Sale

22 Carisbrooke Lane, Cole Harbour, NS B2V 1R2
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,630Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Sweet Cape Cod Charmer in Cole Harbour! This lovely Cape Cod sits on a spacious 10,000+ sq. ft. lot in Cole Harbour. Enjoy a double detached garage, large yard, and cozy firepit — perfect for family fun and entertaining. The main level features a bright family room, kitchen, separate dining room, laundry, half bath, and a flexible front office/den/playroom.
C$589900

Residential For Sale

22 Carisbrooke Lane, Cole Harbour, NS B2V 1R2
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$589900

Residential For Sale

74 Lauren Drive, Centreville, NS B0P 1J0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
24Picture(s)
1,663Sqft
Parachute Realty
C$559900

Residential For Sale

74 Lauren Drive, Centreville, NS B0P 1J0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,663Sqft
Parachute Realty
This immaculate three-year-old property offers modern comfort, quality finishes, and thoughtful design throughout. Partially fenced and exceptionally maintained, this three-bedroom, two-bath home is ideal for families or anyone seeking move-in-ready living. Step inside to find tray ceilings, engineered hardwood flooring, quartz countertops, and a spacious open-concept layout.
C$559900

Residential For Sale

74 Lauren Drive, Centreville, NS B0P 1J0
Parachute Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$559900

Residential For Sale

38 Sherbrooke Avenue, Bridgewater, NS B4V 4G1

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
29Picture(s)
976Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
C$219000

Residential For Sale

38 Sherbrooke Avenue, Bridgewater, NS B4V 4G1
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
976Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
This property has been lovingly renovated since the owners took over nine years ago. Everyone is looking for more storage room in their home and every space has been utilized. Starting with the second bedroom. The closet was outfitted with shelving that can be easily removed should they not be required.
C$219000

Residential For Sale

38 Sherbrooke Avenue, Bridgewater, NS B4V 4G1
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$219000

Residential For Sale

1948 Dufferin Street, Westville, NS B0K 2A0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
44Picture(s)
1,720Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic(Stellarton)
C$299900

Residential For Sale

1948 Dufferin Street, Westville, NS B0K 2A0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,720Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic(Stellarton)
Charming family home in the heart of Westville! Conveniently located within walking distance to local amenities, Acadia Park and walking trails. Situated on a spacious double lot, this property offers plenty of room for kids and pets to enjoy.
C$299900

Residential For Sale

1948 Dufferin Street, Westville, NS B0K 2A0
Royal LePage Atlantic(Stellarton)
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$299900

Residential For Sale

28 Simona Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2X 2E1

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
27Picture(s)
2,113Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$639900

Residential For Sale

28 Simona Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2X 2E1
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,113Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Meet "Marley", a beautifully designed three-level semi-detached home by Rooftight Homes on Simona Drive. This model starts at $639,900 offering exceptional value in The Parks of Lake Charles. This thoughtfully designed home features three bedrooms on the upper level, including a spacious primary suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom.
C$639900

Residential For Sale

28 Simona Drive, Dartmouth, NS B2X 2E1
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$639900

Residential For Sale

386 Sarty Road, Hebbs Cross, NS B4V 0X6

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
24Picture(s)
1,609Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$399999

Residential For Sale

386 Sarty Road, Hebbs Cross, NS B4V 0X6
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,609Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Welcome to 386 Sarty Road, Hebbs Cross — a charming lakefront retreat on the peaceful shores of Little Beaver Lake. Situated on three private acres, this three-bedroom home offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, just minutes from all the amenities of Bridgewater.
C$399999

Residential For Sale

386 Sarty Road, Hebbs Cross, NS B4V 0X6
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$399999

Residential For Sale

710-45 Vimy Avenue, Halifax, NS B3M 4C5

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
OtherParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,080Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$456900

Residential For Sale

710-45 Vimy Avenue, Halifax, NS B3M 4C5
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
OtherParking(s)
1,080Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Welcome to Unit 710 at the infamous Granbury Place, a one-of-a-kind, inviting two-bedroom, two-full-bath condo offering flexible living space in a well-managed building with fantastic amenities. This thoughtfully designed layout features a spacious in-unit coat and storage closet, hardwood flooring in the main living areas, updated ceramic flooring throughout, custom blinds, and fresh paint.
C$456900

Residential For Sale

710-45 Vimy Avenue, Halifax, NS B3M 4C5
Royal LePage Atlantic
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$456900

Residential For Sale

9575 Highway 3 Route, Maders Cove, NS B0J 2E0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
WiredParking(s)
23Picture(s)
1,137Sqft
Duckworth Real Estate(Chester)
C$449000

Residential For Sale

9575 Highway 3 Route, Maders Cove, NS B0J 2E0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
WiredParking(s)
1,137Sqft
Duckworth Real Estate(Chester)
Tucked away in a peaceful forest setting just minutes from Mahone Bay, this beautifully maintained 30-year-old home combines comfort, privacy, and convenience. Surrounded by mature trees and natural light, the property offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes it feel instantly like home.
C$449000

Residential For Sale

9575 Highway 3 Route, Maders Cove, NS B0J 2E0
Duckworth Real Estate(Chester)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$449000

Residential For Sale

27 Dartmoor Crescent, Bedford, NS B4A 2K6

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,754Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$599900

Residential For Sale

27 Dartmoor Crescent, Bedford, NS B4A 2K6
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,754Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
As a realtor, when working with a buyer, this is the type of home we look for - where pride of ownership goes beyond the visual and into the substantial.The first impression starts the story: a lovely home with a front veranda, cared-for lawn, and updated roof shingles - the perfect start. Inside, we're greeted by a rarely seen oversized landing that opens to the ideal living space.
C$599900

Residential For Sale

27 Dartmoor Crescent, Bedford, NS B4A 2K6
Royal LePage Atlantic
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599900
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