There is no favorite listings!

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.

Sort Option
  • Listing ID
  • Total Finished Area
  • Price
  • Add date
  • Listing Status
Grid
List
Map
RSS

Residential For Sale

4031 Loch Lomond Road, Loch Lomond, NS B0A 1H0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
46Picture(s)
421Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
C$239900

Residential For Sale

4031 Loch Lomond Road, Loch Lomond, NS B0A 1H0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
421Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
A beautiful, rustic Swiss-inspired design, this cottage property is situated on over 240 feet of waterfrontage on Lake Uist in Loch Lomond, the most beautiful place to get away. Natural wood, rock flooring are among the unique features making this property a one-of-a-kind. An open kitchen family floor plan makes for a spacious area for family time.
C$239900

Residential For Sale

4031 Loch Lomond Road, Loch Lomond, NS B0A 1H0
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$239900

Residential For Sale

26 Acorn Avenue, Lantz, NS B2S 1Y4

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,585Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
C$735000

Residential For Sale

26 Acorn Avenue, Lantz, NS B2S 1Y4
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,585Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
Welcome to 26 Acorn Avenue in the vibrant and growing community of Lantz. This thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom (plus den/office), 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and style—ideal for families, professionals, or anyone looking for a smart layout with room to grow.
C$735000

Residential For Sale

26 Acorn Avenue, Lantz, NS B2S 1Y4
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$735000

Residential For Sale

3278 Highway 1, Upper Clements, NS B0S 1A0

6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
24Picture(s)
3,049Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
C$372500

Residential For Sale

3278 Highway 1, Upper Clements, NS B0S 1A0
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
3,049Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Large 6-bedroom home on nearly 5 acres with income, multi-generational, vacation rental and/or development potential! Just minutes from the historic charm and full services of Annapolis Royal and a short walk to the incredible multi-use park in Upper Clements, this spacious century-plus home offers a world of opportunity.
C$372500

Residential For Sale

3278 Highway 1, Upper Clements, NS B0S 1A0
Exit Realty Town & Country
6Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$372500

Residential For Sale

1123 Susan Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4E 1P2

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
47Picture(s)
966Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$278000

Residential For Sale

1123 Susan Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4E 1P2
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
966Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Deciding between quality and affordability when it comes to your next home? 1123 Susan Drive in Beaver Bank serves up both, in a very convenient location. This bright and clean four year old mini home features two bedrooms, two bathrooms, stainless steel kitchen appliances, a ductless heat pump, and a spacious front deck for all your BBQing desires.
C$278000

Residential For Sale

1123 Susan Drive, Beaver Bank, NS B4E 1P2
RE/MAX Nova
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$278000

Residential For Sale

224 Stephen Augustine Drive, Evanston, NS B0E 1J0

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
40Picture(s)
2,240Sqft
Cape Breton Realty
C$825000

Residential For Sale

224 Stephen Augustine Drive, Evanston, NS B0E 1J0
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
2,240Sqft
Cape Breton Realty
Beautiful Newly Built Bungalow – Modern Design with Waterfront Access As marked on the map, the upper portion of the large lot would make an excellent second building site, approx. 2.29 ac This stunning, newly built bungalow combines modern design with natural surroundings, offering privacy, functionality, and exceptional views.
C$825000

Residential For Sale

224 Stephen Augustine Drive, Evanston, NS B0E 1J0
Cape Breton Realty
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$825000

Residential For Sale

2138 Hardscratch Road, South Ohio, NS B5A 5N2

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
809Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
C$345000

Residential For Sale

2138 Hardscratch Road, South Ohio, NS B5A 5N2
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
809Sqft
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
Home/Cottage Retreat in South Ohio Nova Scotia, THE ONLY WAY OF LIFE. Only 10 minutes to Yarmouth, relaxing outdoors, for All Seasons to enjoy. Renovated two-bedroom, one-bathroom, open-concept, to common living area, plus a barn completed with a new and added shed for all your toys, comes with your own drilled well and private septic system, completely landscaped for total enjoyment.
C$345000

Residential For Sale

2138 Hardscratch Road, South Ohio, NS B5A 5N2
ViewPoint Realty Services Inc.(Greenwood)
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$345000

Residential For Sale

11 Oakes Road, Fall River, NS B2T 1J5

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,600Sqft
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
C$595000

Residential For Sale

11 Oakes Road, Fall River, NS B2T 1J5
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,600Sqft
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
Top Reasons Why You’ll Love This Home: 1. Bright and Functional Main Floor Living: The main level greets you with warmth and charm, highlighted by a spacious kitchen with oak cabinetry, ample counter space, a huge pantry, and potential for a future island.
C$595000

Residential For Sale

11 Oakes Road, Fall River, NS B2T 1J5
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$595000

Residential For Sale

120 Brentwood Avenue, Timberlea, NS B3T 1E9

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
41Picture(s)
1,850Sqft
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
C$474900

Residential For Sale

120 Brentwood Avenue, Timberlea, NS B3T 1E9
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,850Sqft
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
Imagine coming home to a place that makes life easier, happier, and a little more magical for the whole family. This charming 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom semi-detached home in Timberlea isn’t just a house, it’s where memories are made. Tucked on one of beautiful Greenwood Height's most beloved family streets, where kids still ride their bikes, shoot hoops, and play street hockey until the sun sets.
C$474900

Residential For Sale

120 Brentwood Avenue, Timberlea, NS B3T 1E9
EXP Realty of Canada Inc.
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$474900

Residential For Sale

249 Phalen Road, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3B5

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
41Picture(s)
1,614Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
C$309000

Residential For Sale

249 Phalen Road, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3B5
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,614Sqft
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
Welcome to 249 Phalen Road — a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom L-shaped bungalow nestled on a landscaped 10,800 sq ft lot.
C$309000

Residential For Sale

249 Phalen Road, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3B5
RE/MAX Park Place Inc.
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$309000

Residential For Sale

29 Fifth Street, Trenton, NS B0K 1X0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,474Sqft
Blinkhorn Real Estate Ltd.
C$279900

Residential For Sale

29 Fifth Street, Trenton, NS B0K 1X0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,474Sqft
Blinkhorn Real Estate Ltd.
Welcome to this well-maintained 1.5-storey home in Trenton. This property shines with pride of ownership inside and out, featuring a beautifully landscaped yard, a paved driveway, and a detached 20x24 wired and heated garage—perfect for your projects or winter parking.
C$279900

Residential For Sale

29 Fifth Street, Trenton, NS B0K 1X0
Blinkhorn Real Estate Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$279900

Residential For Sale

78 Rigby Road, Sydney, NS B1P 4T6

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
35Picture(s)
1,360Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty(Sydney,Townsend St.)
C$264900

Residential For Sale

78 Rigby Road, Sydney, NS B1P 4T6
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,360Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty(Sydney,Townsend St.)
Welcome to 78 Rigby Road, your secluded city get-away. Situated on over 13,000 square feet of property at the end of the street, this private lot will give you the peace you desire while in the heart of the city. The main floor offers a large living and dining area with hardwood floors and windows facing the treed lot.
C$264900

Residential For Sale

78 Rigby Road, Sydney, NS B1P 4T6
Keller Williams Select Realty(Sydney,Townsend St.)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$264900

Residential For Sale

10175 Peggys Cove Road, Glen Margaret, NS B3Z 3J2

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,413Sqft
Red Door Realty
C$524900

Residential For Sale

10175 Peggys Cove Road, Glen Margaret, NS B3Z 3J2
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,413Sqft
Red Door Realty
Welcome to 10175 Peggy’s Cove Road — a hidden coastal sanctuary offering the perfect blend of seaside charm, family comfort, and room to grow. Set on a beautifully landscaped 1.5-acre lot, this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home is surrounded by lush, perennial gardens and a calming outdoor oasis that invites relaxation in every season.
C$524900

Residential For Sale

10175 Peggys Cove Road, Glen Margaret, NS B3Z 3J2
Red Door Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$524900
4695 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern