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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

9431 Upper Clyde Road, Welshtown, NS B0T 1W0

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
1,520Sqft
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
C$294000

Residential For Sale

9431 Upper Clyde Road, Welshtown, NS B0T 1W0
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,520Sqft
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
Nestled in the desirable Welshtown area, this charming property is just 10 minutes from the town of Shelburne and sprawls over 1.5 acres, making it an ideal retreat for families or horse and farm enthusiast alike. Boasting over 1200 ft.
C$294000

Residential For Sale

9431 Upper Clyde Road, Welshtown, NS B0T 1W0
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$294000

Residential For Sale

301-45 Chelton Woods Lane, Halifax, NS B3M 3Z7

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
AssignedParking(s)
38Picture(s)
824Sqft
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
C$324900

Residential For Sale

301-45 Chelton Woods Lane, Halifax, NS B3M 3Z7
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
AssignedParking(s)
824Sqft
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this spacious top floor, two bedroom condo. Featuring soaring ceilings in an open concept living and dining area, and a bright galley kitchen, this home offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The living room opens to a wraparound balcony, ideal for relaxing in peaceful surroundings.
C$324900

Residential For Sale

301-45 Chelton Woods Lane, Halifax, NS B3M 3Z7
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$324900

Residential For Sale

20 North Street, Lockeport, NS B0T 1L0

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
45Picture(s)
2,852Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Liverpool)
C$299000

Residential For Sale

20 North Street, Lockeport, NS B0T 1L0
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
2,852Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Liverpool)
GOTHIC REVIVAL STYLE HOME. Built in 1846, the quality architecture and attractive curb appeal make a bold first impression. Inside, the 2852 sq. ft. home is filled with original character, including hardwood floors, built in cabinetry, a walk-in pantry, soaring ceilings, original wooden doors, and intricate trim moldings.
C$299000

Residential For Sale

20 North Street, Lockeport, NS B0T 1L0
Engel & Volkers (Liverpool)
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$299000

Residential For Sale

17 Tower View Road, Enfield, NS B2T 1H1

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
41Picture(s)
1,404Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$399000

Residential For Sale

17 Tower View Road, Enfield, NS B2T 1H1
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,404Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Cozy and sweet, this charming 3-bedroom bungalow offers surprising value on a beautiful level private lot. Bright, welcoming, and easy to maintain, the home features hard-surface flooring throughout, creating a clean and cohesive feel from room to room. The main level offers an efficient layout with a cozy living area, an updated kitchen, 4 piece bathroom and three comfortable bedrooms.
C$399000

Residential For Sale

17 Tower View Road, Enfield, NS B2T 1H1
Keller Williams Select Realty
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$399000

Residential For Sale

5240 Russell Street, Halifax, NS B3K 1W6

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
23Picture(s)
2,002Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$799900

Residential For Sale

5240 Russell Street, Halifax, NS B3K 1W6
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
2,002Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Rare opportunity to get this amount of space in the Northend! Full size two-storey on a deep lot. Four good size bedrooms and a full bath all together upstairs. Classic layout on the main floor with wood stove insert in the living room, large bright dining room, and a functional kitchen that was remodeled a few years ago.
C$799900

Residential For Sale

5240 Russell Street, Halifax, NS B3K 1W6
RE/MAX Nova
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$799900

Residential For Sale

55 Oakmount Drive, Bedford, NS B4A 2W1

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,088Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$649900

Residential For Sale

55 Oakmount Drive, Bedford, NS B4A 2W1
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
2,088Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Welcome to 55 Oakmount Drive - An elegant spacious family home nestled in the heart of the tranquil Oakmount neighborhood in Bedford. This one owner meticulously kept home was built by a reputable builder in 1975 offering quality and a thoughtfully laid out living space.
C$649900

Residential For Sale

55 Oakmount Drive, Bedford, NS B4A 2W1
RE/MAX Nova
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$649900

Residential For Sale

6 Ryers Lane, Shelburne, NS B0T 1W0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
PavedParking(s)
42Picture(s)
1,224Sqft
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
C$229900

Residential For Sale

6 Ryers Lane, Shelburne, NS B0T 1W0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
PavedParking(s)
1,224Sqft
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
Welcome to 6 Ryers Lane! Located on a quiet street and offering stunning harbour sunsets from both the front porch and the back deck, this charming 2-bedroom home is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal living. Step inside through the main entrance to a welcoming porch-an ideal spot to tuck away outerwear before entering the heart of the home.
C$229900

Residential For Sale

6 Ryers Lane, Shelburne, NS B0T 1W0
Royal Lepage Atlantic (Mahone Bay)
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$229900

Residential For Sale

25 Taleen Drive, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 4A6

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
31Picture(s)
1,837Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$545000

Residential For Sale

25 Taleen Drive, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 4A6
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,837Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Welcome home to this beautiful 3-bedroom,1.5 bath property, ideally located on a family-friendly street close to excellent schools, transit, nature trails, and recreation, and backing onto a peaceful green belt.
C$545000

Residential For Sale

25 Taleen Drive, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 4A6
Keller Williams Select Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$545000

Residential For Sale

42 Montague Row, Digby, NS B0V 1A0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
46Picture(s)
2,376Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
C$599000

Residential For Sale

42 Montague Row, Digby, NS B0V 1A0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,376Sqft
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
Harbourfront Bungalow in the Heart of Digby Wake up to breathtaking, panoramic views of the Digby harbour in this spacious bungalow, perfectly situated in the quaint and vibrant port town of Digby. This thoughtfully designed 4 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home offers space, convenience and coastal beauty and is patiently waiting for the loving modern touches of its new family.
C$599000

Residential For Sale

42 Montague Row, Digby, NS B0V 1A0
EXIT Realty Inter Lake
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599000

Residential For Sale

48 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
6Picture(s)
2,275Sqft
Engel & Volkers
C$649900

Residential For Sale

48 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,275Sqft
Engel & Volkers
Welcome to Bayview Dr, Hacketts Cove in a scenic coastal community on the scenic Lighthouse Route. Only 40 minutes from Halifax with all the amenities you need only 15 minutes away!Indulge in this exceptionally versatile split entry home, The Lilac, that is sure to leave a lasting impression! Enjoy quality finishes designed to offer a seamless open-concept floor plan.
C$649900

Residential For Sale

48 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9
Engel & Volkers
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$649900

Residential For Sale

18 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
7Picture(s)
2,454Sqft
Engel & Volkers
C$665900

Residential For Sale

18 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,454Sqft
Engel & Volkers
Welcome to Bayview Dr, Hacketts Cove in a scenic coastal community on the scenic Lighthouse Route. Only 40 minutes from Halifax with all the amenities you need only 15 minutes away! This contemporary two storey offers over 2,400 square feet of living space across 3 finished levels, 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms.
C$665900

Residential For Sale

18 Lukes Lane, Hacketts Cove, NS B3Z 3J9
Engel & Volkers
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$665900

Residential For Sale

14 Tobermory Road, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1Z5

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
29Picture(s)
1,248Sqft
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
C$515000

Residential For Sale

14 Tobermory Road, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1Z5
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,248Sqft
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
Welcome to this beautifully renovated one-level home set on a quiet street in Dartmouth, offering comfort, modern upgrades, and an 8000 sq. ft. lot perfect for families, pets, or future outdoor projects. With 4 bedrooms and 1 full bath, this home delivers thoughtful updates throughout and truly move-in-ready living.
C$515000

Residential For Sale

14 Tobermory Road, Dartmouth, NS B2X 1Z5
The Agency Real Estate Brokerage
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$515000
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