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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

24 Annavista Heights, Bay View, NS B0V 1A0

5Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,955Sqft
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C$900400

Residential For Sale

24 Annavista Heights, Bay View, NS B0V 1A0
5Bedroom(s)
5Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,955Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Welcome to 24 Annavista Heights, Bay View—an extraordinary custom-built home perched with perfect poise on an elevated hillside lot, commanding mesmerizing views of the Annapolis Basin. This is more than just a home; it’s a dream realized—where quality craftsmanship, timeless design, and breathtaking natural beauty come together in harmony.
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3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,248Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
Nestled on a scenic 3-acre lot in the sought-after North Shore area of Malagash, this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home blends comfort, space, and natural beauty. Enjoy private waterfront access and 292 ft of beach frontage just steps from your backyard—perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water sport activities in the warm summer months.
C$692900

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3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
17Picture(s)
1,539Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc (Baddeck)
C$250000

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53 Ocean Ave, Dominion, NS B1G 1R4
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,539Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc (Baddeck)
Well maintained home in a great location in the heart of Dominion with Ocean views! 3 bedroom home with a large garage and paved driveway. This lovely home has lots of space for that growing family. Good sized upper floor bedrooms. Laundry conveniently located on the upper floor so you don't have to carry laundry up and down the stairs. Updated 4 piece bathroom.
C$250000

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Re/Max Park Place Inc (Baddeck)
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
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3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
Circular DrivewayParking(s)
23Picture(s)
1,152Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc. (Antigonish)
C$236900

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14 Hallows Way, Williams Point, NS B2G 0B4
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
Circular DrivewayParking(s)
1,152Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc. (Antigonish)
Tired of renting. Here is a chance to own your own home. Mini home located in beautiful Williams Point. 3 bedroom / 2 bath with large eat in kitchen. Well maintained. Many upgrades including a heat pump, generator panel (2023), flooring, water tank (2024), roof. Shed to store your gardening supplies. Raised garden beds to plant your herbs and veggies.
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14 Hallows Way, Williams Point, NS B2G 0B4
Re/Max Park Place Inc. (Antigonish)
3Bedroom(s)
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19 Brown’s Place, West Lochaber, NS B2G 2L3

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
34Picture(s)
1,144Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc. (Antigonish)
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19 Brown’s Place, West Lochaber, NS B2G 2L3
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,144Sqft
Re/Max Park Place Inc. (Antigonish)
The lake is calling. Boating, fishing and relaxation all right in your front yard. Located in West Lochaber this 2 bedroom cottage is move in ready. Large living room and eat in kitchen gives lots of room to prepare those summer barbeques. 2 piece bath with room to add a shower. This lovely cottage sits up on a hill surrounded by shrubs and trees to provide plenty of privacy.
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3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
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49Picture(s)
1,690Sqft
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3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
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1,690Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic(Stellarton)
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Royal LePage Atlantic(Stellarton)
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
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2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
44Picture(s)
1,122Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
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42 Chamber Close, Wolfville, NS B4P 0A6
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,122Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
Sellers say bring offers - For This Charming Semi-Detached Home in Beautiful Wolfville – Endless Opportunities Await! Discover the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and potential in this 14-year-old, two-storey semi-detached home nestled in the heart of picturesque Wolfville.
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ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$339000

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3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,200Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
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11217 Kempt Head Road, Boularderie Centre, NS B1X 1L1
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,200Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
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601 George Street, New Waterford, NS B1H 4E4

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
35Picture(s)
1,116Sqft
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601 George Street, New Waterford, NS B1H 4E4
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,116Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
Nestled in the heart of New Waterford, a vibrant coastal town steeped in history and community pride, this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath home is more than just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. New Waterford has long been known for its tight-knit neighborhoods, rich coal mining legacy, and coastal beauty.
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RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$235000

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3817 Highway 206, Petit-de-grat, NS B0E 2L0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
43Picture(s)
2,360Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc. (Port Hawkesbury)
C$474500

Residential For Sale

3817 Highway 206, Petit-de-grat, NS B0E 2L0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,360Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc. (Port Hawkesbury)
Step into this charming single-owner L-shaped bungalow tucked away on 3 Parcels of land consisting of 11.35 acres. Set back from the main road with complete privacy, offering your own special retreat. Sweeping views of Petit de Grat Harbour. Boasting 3 Bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the home offers flexible warmth with a cozy woodstove and electric heat.
C$474500

Residential For Sale

3817 Highway 206, Petit-de-grat, NS B0E 2L0
RE/MAX Park Place Inc. (Port Hawkesbury)
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$474500

Residential For Sale

1207 Parker Mountain Road, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
15Picture(s)
1,119Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
C$189000

Residential For Sale

1207 Parker Mountain Road, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,119Sqft
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
Renovated and move-in ready, this bright and spacious bungalow offers incredible value with sweeping views of the world-famous Bay of Fundy and quick access to the shops and services of historic Annapolis Royal.
C$189000

Residential For Sale

1207 Parker Mountain Road, Parkers Cove, NS B0S 1A0
RE/MAX Banner Real Estate
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$189000

Residential For Sale

471 Beech Lane, Forties, NS B0J 2M0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,264Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$649900

Residential For Sale

471 Beech Lane, Forties, NS B0J 2M0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,264Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
After over 40 years of cherished memories, this stunning lake house is finally available to welcome owners. Nestled on the shores of one of the most sought-after lakes in cottage country, this meticulously renovated four-bedroom, two-bathroom home is a perfect blend of comfort, style, and natural beauty.
C$649900

Residential For Sale

471 Beech Lane, Forties, NS B0J 2M0
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$649900
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