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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

144 Orchard Lane, Corberrie, NS B0W 3T0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
48Picture(s)
544Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
C$389000

Residential For Sale

144 Orchard Lane, Corberrie, NS B0W 3T0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
544Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
Looking for a cozy waterfront cottage or a year-round retreat? Welcome to 144 Orchard Lane, nestled on the sought-after shores of Wentworth Lake. With approximately 225 feet of pristine water frontage, this property offers ideal access for your own private dock and boat launch, perfect for boating and fishing enthusiasts alike.
C$389000

Residential For Sale

144 Orchard Lane, Corberrie, NS B0W 3T0
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$389000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,242Sqft
Modern Realty
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,242Sqft
Modern Realty
Coastal Dream Home Designed for the Serious Boating Enthusiast! This exceptional property boasts over 300 feet of direct deep-water frontage, complete with a private wharf and floating dock—perfect for multiple watercraft and offering seamless access to the open sea.
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0
Modern Realty
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,242Sqft
Modern Realty
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,242Sqft
Modern Realty
Coastal Dream Home Designed for the Serious Boating Enthusiast! This exceptional property boasts over 300 feet of direct deep-water frontage, complete with a private wharf and floating dock—perfect for multiple watercraft and offering seamless access to the open sea.
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

1043 Chemin Tittle Road, Surettes Island, NS B0W 3M0
Modern Realty
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$1290000

Residential For Sale

158 Prince Street, Chester, NS B0J 1J0

1Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
34Picture(s)
1,847Sqft
Red Door Realty(20036)
C$719000

Residential For Sale

158 Prince Street, Chester, NS B0J 1J0
1Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,847Sqft
Red Door Realty(20036)
Casual carriage house living in Chester! One bedroom plus loft space with two full bathrooms is an ideal space for entertaining the crew. Outdoor space to gather on summer nights. Living space downstairs and up. Kitchen and dining areas upstairs, with open concept and cathedral ceilings. Exposed beams showcase the character of the building.
C$719000

Residential For Sale

158 Prince Street, Chester, NS B0J 1J0
Red Door Realty(20036)
1Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$719000

Residential For Sale

3415 Highway #3, Barrington Passage, NS B0W 1G0

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
42Picture(s)
2,005Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
C$214900

Residential For Sale

3415 Highway #3, Barrington Passage, NS B0W 1G0
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,005Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
Step into timeless character and modern opportunity with this turn-of-the-century home nestled in the heart of Barrington Passage. Brimming with original charm and surrounded by the natural beauty of Nova Scotia’s South Shore, this property offers the rare combination of historical appeal and rental income potential.
C$214900

Residential For Sale

3415 Highway #3, Barrington Passage, NS B0W 1G0
Exit Real Estate Professionals
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$214900

Residential For Sale

216 Heron Road, Upper Branch, NS B4V 4X4

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
17Picture(s)
810Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Lunenburg)
C$475000

Residential For Sale

216 Heron Road, Upper Branch, NS B4V 4X4
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
810Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Lunenburg)
Cozy like the cutest cottage, but built and insulated like a solid house: In a quiet subdivision on peaceful Hirtle Lake, this West facing retreat showcases spectacular sunsets from a comfortable seat on the deck, or through the large windows from inside. Our pictures show just a couple of examples. The land is level and private, and shares a driveway - and its maintenance - with the neighbour.
C$475000

Residential For Sale

216 Heron Road, Upper Branch, NS B4V 4X4
Engel & Volkers (Lunenburg)
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$475000

Residential For Sale

25 George Street, Clarks Harbour, NS B0W 1P0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
ConcreteParking(s)
13Picture(s)
644Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$89000

Residential For Sale

25 George Street, Clarks Harbour, NS B0W 1P0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
ConcreteParking(s)
644Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Charming 3-Bedroom Mini Home in Clark’s Harbour This affordable and efficient 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom mini home is located in the heart of Clark’s Harbour and offers a perfect opportunity for first-time buyers, someone looking to downsize, or investors. The home has seen numerous upgrades in recent years, making it move-in ready and low maintenance.
C$89000

Residential For Sale

25 George Street, Clarks Harbour, NS B0W 1P0
Keller Williams Select Realty
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$89000

Residential For Sale

67 Oak Lane, Clyde River, NS B0W 1R0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
46Picture(s)
2,020Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$449000

Residential For Sale

67 Oak Lane, Clyde River, NS B0W 1R0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,020Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Modern 3-Bed, 2-Bath Home in Scenic Clyde River Built in 2023 Discover this beautifully crafted 3-bedroom, 2-bath home nestled in the peaceful, tree-filled setting of Clyde River. Built in 2023, this modern residence offers an open-concept main living area with recessed lighting, high-end stainless steel appliances, and spacious living and dining areas—perfect for entertaining.
C$449000

Residential For Sale

67 Oak Lane, Clyde River, NS B0W 1R0
Keller Williams Select Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$449000

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
42Picture(s)
1,619Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
C$819900

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,619Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
Do not miss this opportunity of a lifetime to own a private island on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia! This 110 acre island is located off of Marie Joseph & is a 10min boat ride from the Government Wharf.
C$819900

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$819900

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
30Picture(s)
1,619Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
C$819900

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,619Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
Do not miss this opportunity of a lifetime to own a private island on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia! This 110 acre island is located off of Marie Joseph & is a 10min boat ride from the Government Wharf.
C$819900

Residential For Sale

Turners Island, Marie Joseph, NS B0J 2G0
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$819900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
49Picture(s)
1,765Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,765Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
Lakefront living at its best! This lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is situated on 3.4 acres of land and features 1,182 feet of waterfront on Marshall Flowage and multiple outbuildings for storage. Just imagine sitting on the back deck enjoying the scenery with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine or kayaking from your own backyard.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
49Picture(s)
1,765Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,765Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
Lakefront living at its best! This lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is situated on 3.4 acres of land and features 1,182 feet of waterfront on Marshall Flowage and multiple outbuildings for storage. Just imagine sitting on the back deck enjoying the scenery with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine or kayaking from your own backyard.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

919 Malay Falls Lochaber Mines Road, Lochaber Mines, NS B0J 3B0
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399900
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