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

14 Iron Court, Sackville, NS B4E 0B9

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
35Picture(s)
2,020Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$599900

Residential For Sale

14 Iron Court, Sackville, NS B4E 0B9
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,020Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Welcome to this beautiful and meticulously maintained family home, located in the sought after Twin Brooks area of Middle Sackville. This home boasts approx. 2000 sq/ft of living space and offers exceptional comfort, style and functionality. From the moment you arrive you will be impressed by the stunning curb appeal.
C$599900

Residential For Sale

14 Iron Court, Sackville, NS B4E 0B9
Royal LePage Atlantic
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$599900

Residential For Sale

2957 Highway 311, Upper Northfield, NS B6L 6J8

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
47Picture(s)
2,179Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$545000

Residential For Sale

2957 Highway 311, Upper Northfield, NS B6L 6J8
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
2,179Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Welcome to this stunning home in Upper North River, NS! Set on an expansive 59-acre property, this is the perfect retreat for those who love outdoor living. The land features beautiful landscaping with berry bushes galore—raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries—your own trout pond, a barn, acamp, and a garage—providing endless opportunities for exploration, hobbies, and relaxation.
C$545000

Residential For Sale

2957 Highway 311, Upper Northfield, NS B6L 6J8
Keller Williams Select Realty
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$545000

Residential For Sale

1335 Highway 2, Lantz, NS B2S 1Z2

3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
13Picture(s)
1,166Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty (Elmsdale)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

1335 Highway 2, Lantz, NS B2S 1Z2
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,166Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty (Elmsdale)
Prime R2 zoned property conveniently located on Highway 2 with a large lot and double car garage.
C$499900

Residential For Sale

1335 Highway 2, Lantz, NS B2S 1Z2
Keller Williams Select Realty (Elmsdale)
3Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

335 Power Road, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W6

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
38Picture(s)
2,068Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$639900

Residential For Sale

335 Power Road, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W6
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,068Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Introducing 335 Powers Road — a beautifully upgraded split-entry home just 20 minutes from Bayers Lake and Halifax, offering the perfect balance of country privacy and city convenience. This 4-bedroom, 4-year-young home sits on a spacious, fully landscaped lot and is ideal for families looking for space and a true turn-key option.
C$639900

Residential For Sale

335 Power Road, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W6
Keller Williams Select Realty
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$639900

Residential For Sale

102 Zaffre Drive, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 0P5

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
1Picture(s)
2,180Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$924900

Residential For Sale

102 Zaffre Drive, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 0P5
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,180Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
Stunning New Construction Bungalow in Indigo Shores – Built by Kahill Custom Homes. Experience quality craftsmanship and effortless single-level living in a beautifully designed stair-free bungalow. Nestled amongst the trees on a massive, 2.2 acre lot in the prestigious community of Indigo Shores, this home perfectly blends style, comfort, and function.
C$924900

Residential For Sale

102 Zaffre Drive, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 0P5
Royal LePage Atlantic
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$924900

Residential For Sale

54 Scott's Drive, Summerville, NS B5A 5J5

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,512Sqft
Modern Realty
C$849000

Residential For Sale

54 Scott's Drive, Summerville, NS B5A 5J5
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,512Sqft
Modern Realty
Accessible Waterfront Bungalow on 29.8 Private Acres with approximately 3000 ft of River/Lake frontage Discover your own private waterfront retreat on the stunning Annis River! This thoughtfully designed single-level bungalow, built in 2022, sits on an expansive 29.8-acre property with abundant waterfront and breathtaking panoramic river views.
C$849000

Residential For Sale

54 Scott's Drive, Summerville, NS B5A 5J5
Modern Realty
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$849000

Residential For Sale

Lot 227 Surf Drive, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W8

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
9Picture(s)
2,177Sqft
Engel & Volkers
C$639900

Residential For Sale

Lot 227 Surf Drive, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W8
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2,177Sqft
Engel & Volkers
Ramar Homes' "The Iris" is a gorgeous, contemporary, split entry home offering over 2000 square feet of living space. The main level features an extended front entry with two coat closets, an open concept great room with spacious dinning area and a functional kitchen complete with eat-up island.
C$639900

Residential For Sale

Lot 227 Surf Drive, Whites Lake, NS B3T 1W8
Engel & Volkers
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$639900

Residential For Sale

165 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
30Picture(s)
1,800Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
C$374900

Residential For Sale

165 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,800Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Welcome to 165 Hall Road, South Greenwood! This bright 3+1 bdrm, 2-bath bungalow sits on a private 0.68-acre lot with mature trees, fruit bushes and gardens—perfect for families or hobbyists alike. Enjoy a refreshed kitchen with new counters, backsplash, faucet and appliances (2025) plus a handy coffee bar.
C$374900

Residential For Sale

165 Hall Road, South Greenwood, NS B0P 1R0
Exit Realty Town & Country
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$374900

Residential For Sale

758 Newtonville Road, Forest Hills, NS B4P 2R1

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
50Picture(s)
3,003Sqft
Parachute Realty
C$599900

Residential For Sale

758 Newtonville Road, Forest Hills, NS B4P 2R1
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
3,003Sqft
Parachute Realty
Privately set on 14.5 acres in Forest Hill, this 35-year-old ranch-style home offers peaceful living and space to grow. Located in the sought-after Gaspereau Elementary, Wolfville School, and Horton High school districts, the home is tucked down a freshly graveled driveway with a full-width covered front porch and beautiful landscaping.
C$599900

Residential For Sale

758 Newtonville Road, Forest Hills, NS B4P 2R1
Parachute Realty
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599900

Residential For Sale

126 Kendall Lane, Currys Corner, NS B0N 2T0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
45Picture(s)
1,614Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
C$425000

Residential For Sale

126 Kendall Lane, Currys Corner, NS B0N 2T0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,614Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
Located just minutes from the heart of Windsor, this well maintained split-entry home offers the perfect combination of space, functionality, and location all with the added benefit of being on municipal town services. Step inside to a bright and inviting main level featuring a cozy living room with a fireplace, a functional kitchen, and a dining area ideal for family meals.
C$425000

Residential For Sale

126 Kendall Lane, Currys Corner, NS B0N 2T0
Royal LePage Atlantic - Valley(Windsor)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$425000

Residential For Sale

3625 Deal Street, Fairview, NS B3N 2Y6

5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
46Picture(s)
1,679Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$599900

Residential For Sale

3625 Deal Street, Fairview, NS B3N 2Y6
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,679Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
Welcome to Deal Street – This spacious 5-bedroom, 2-bath home is perfectly situated in one of Halifax’s most up-and-coming neighbourhoods. Fairview has gained popularity for its unbeatable convenience, community vibe, and quick access to downtown.
C$599900

Residential For Sale

3625 Deal Street, Fairview, NS B3N 2Y6
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
5Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$599900

Residential For Sale

1425 Purcells Cove Road, Halifax, NS B3P 1B3

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
42Picture(s)
2,968Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
C$679900

Residential For Sale

1425 Purcells Cove Road, Halifax, NS B3P 1B3
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,968Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic
This property is a lovely home located directly across from a provincial park—dingle park. It boasts a spacious lot of 20,524 square feet, providing plenty of privacy and space for outdoor activities. The house is conveniently situated with easy access to major roads and amenities, making it a great choice for those who value both nature and accessibility.
C$679900

Residential For Sale

1425 Purcells Cove Road, Halifax, NS B3P 1B3
Royal LePage Atlantic
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$679900
4686 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern