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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

405-31 Kings Wharf Place, Dartmouth Ns B2y 0c1

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
28Picture(s)
875Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
C$494000

Residential For Sale

405-31 Kings Wharf Place, Dartmouth Ns B2y 0c1
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
UndergroundParking(s)
875Sqft
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
Welcome to your stylish condo in the sought-after Kings Wharf community. This spacious one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit offers 875 sq. ft. of well-planned living space in a quality-built, natural gas building. The kitchen is equipped with Bosch stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, solid wood cabinetry, Grohe fixtures, and the option for a gas stove.
C$494000

Residential For Sale

405-31 Kings Wharf Place, Dartmouth Ns B2y 0c1
Century 21 Trident Realty Ltd.
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$494000

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Unit B Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
49Picture(s)
1,250Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
C$474900

Residential For Sale

Unit B Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,250Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
Welcome to 38 Pemberton Avenue! This brand new home is ready for its new owner! Offering top quality finishes, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and perfectly situated at the end of a private cul-de-sac. This single-level home boasts elegant vinyl plank flooring throughout and an open-concept design highlighted by stunning corian countertops in the kitchen.
C$474900

Residential For Sale

Unit B Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$474900

Residential For Sale

Unit A Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
48Picture(s)
1,250Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
C$474900

Residential For Sale

Unit A Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1,250Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
Welcome to 36 Pemberton Avenue! This brand new home is ready for its new owner! Offering top quality finishes, 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and perfectly situated at the end of a private cul-de-sac. This single-level home boasts elegant vinyl plank flooring throughout and an open-concept design highlighted by stunning corian countertops in the kitchen.
C$474900

Residential For Sale

Unit A Pemberton Avenue, Garlands Crossing Ns B0n 2t0
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$474900

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18 Harbourview Drive, Port Bickerton Ns B0j 1a0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
20Picture(s)
2,500Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
C$450000

Residential For Sale

18 Harbourview Drive, Port Bickerton Ns B0j 1a0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
2,500Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
Visit REALTOR® website for additional information. This beautifully restored former sea captain's home offers stunning ocean views and blends historic charm with modern comfort. The 3-bed, 2-bath home features a bright European-style kitchen, cozy living spaces, sunroom, main floor laundry, and a soaker tub.
C$450000

Residential For Sale

18 Harbourview Drive, Port Bickerton Ns B0j 1a0
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$450000

Residential For Sale

119 Main Street, Tatamagouche Mountain Ns B0k 1v0

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
20Picture(s)
2,003Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
C$617000

Residential For Sale

119 Main Street, Tatamagouche Mountain Ns B0k 1v0
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,003Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
Visit REALTOR® Website for additional information. Spectacular 4-Level Split-entry Home with Attached Garage, Rentals & Bay Views Nestled on 2.57 acres in the heart of Tatamagouche and offering access to and breathtaking views of Tatamagouche Bay. The main level features a bright kitchen, welcoming living room and a stunning sunroom.
C$617000

Residential For Sale

119 Main Street, Tatamagouche Mountain Ns B0k 1v0
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$617000

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2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2Picture(s)
1,344Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Enfield)
C$604900

Residential For Sale

N-9 Tully Lake, Elderbank Ns B0n 1k0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,344Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Enfield)
Searching for your next home? Welcome to luxurious simplicity, just 20 minutes from Halifax Stanfield International Airport. The Ross from Citadel Homes serves up two bedrooms, two bathrooms plus a spacious den. You'll love the open concept main living area, the abundance of natural light, and the worry-free living that comes with new construction.
C$604900

Residential For Sale

N-9 Tully Lake, Elderbank Ns B0n 1k0
RE/MAX Nova (Enfield)
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$604900

Residential For Sale

Lot 5 Wine Harbour Village Road, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
28Picture(s)
1,248Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
C$564576

Residential For Sale

Lot 5 Wine Harbour Village Road, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,248Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
Imagine spending the summer months relaxing in your hammock overlooking the calming ocean sipping your coffee. This could be you after building your coastal getaway in Wine Harbour. This 6.18 acre lot is ready for development. The Nook, a turn-key brand new 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home sits perfectly on this lot. Need a garage? more space? No problem.
C$564576

Residential For Sale

Lot 5 Wine Harbour Village Road, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0
Exit Real Estate Professionals
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$564576

Residential For Sale

Wine Harbour Village Road Lot 4, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
14Picture(s)
1,080Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
C$543924

Residential For Sale

Wine Harbour Village Road Lot 4, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,080Sqft
Exit Real Estate Professionals
I've spotted your new oceanfront getaway! This 2 bedroom 1 bathroom NEW Build cottage/home is the perfect spot. Lot #4 located in Wine Harbour has stunning sunsets, gorgeous oceanfrontage, and intriguing wildlife. Totaling 7.36 acres, this treed yet partially cleared lot has over 413 ft of direct ocean frontage.
C$543924

Residential For Sale

Wine Harbour Village Road Lot 4, Wine Harbour Ns B0j 3c0
Exit Real Estate Professionals
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$543924

Residential For Sale

17 Pineview Crescent, Stellarton Ns B0k 1s0

5Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,456Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$799000

Residential For Sale

17 Pineview Crescent, Stellarton Ns B0k 1s0
5Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,456Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Welcome to 17 Pineview Crescent. This exceptionally maintained executive home is completely updated with the finest materials and craftsmanship. The home offers a spacious, thoughtfully designed layout, perfect for both modern living and entertaining. The master bedroom features a walk-in closet and a luxurious ensuite bathroom, creating a tranquil retreat.
C$799000

Residential For Sale

17 Pineview Crescent, Stellarton Ns B0k 1s0
RE/MAX Nova
5Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$799000

Residential For Sale

1060 Bland Street, South End Ns B6l 3p4

6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
39Picture(s)
2,669Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$1200000

Residential For Sale

1060 Bland Street, South End Ns B6l 3p4
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2,669Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Nestled in the heart of Halifax’s coveted South End, just steps from hospitals, universities, downtown, and top-tier schools, 1060 Bland Street offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history reimagined for modern living.
C$1200000

Residential For Sale

1060 Bland Street, South End Ns B6l 3p4
Royal LePage Atlantic
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$1200000

Residential For Sale

164 North Wrights Lake Road Lot 13, Doucetteville Ns B0w 1h0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
41Picture(s)
1,100Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
C$299000

Residential For Sale

164 North Wrights Lake Road Lot 13, Doucetteville Ns B0w 1h0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,100Sqft
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
Enjoy peace and privacy with 190 ft of lakefront on a quiet, scenic lake. This well built, four-season, 1100 sq ft cottage offers a bright and spacious living area, and an open concept dining space perfect for entertaining and family gatherings. Includes two comfortable bedrooms and a four piece bath.
C$299000

Residential For Sale

164 North Wrights Lake Road Lot 13, Doucetteville Ns B0w 1h0
Engel & Volkers (Yarmouth)
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$299000

Residential For Sale

16 Brentwood Estates, Amherst Ns B4h 4g6

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
30Picture(s)
960Sqft
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
C$79900

Residential For Sale

16 Brentwood Estates, Amherst Ns B4h 4g6
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
960Sqft
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
Affordable & Updated Three-Bedroom Mini-Home – Ideal for First-Time Buyers or Downsizers! Located on the edge of Amherst, this well-maintained three-bedroom mini-home is a perfect fit for anyone entering the housing market or looking to downsize. A convenient side porch adds great functionality, doubling as a mudroom with extra storage space.
C$79900

Residential For Sale

16 Brentwood Estates, Amherst Ns B4h 4g6
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$79900
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