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

57 Gosling Circle, Porters Lake, NS B3E 0C5

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,615Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$844900

Residential For Sale

57 Gosling Circle, Porters Lake, NS B3E 0C5
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,615Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
LAKESIDE GEM! This custom home in the award-winning community of Seven Lakes offers a rare blend of thoughtful design, quality finishes, and one-of-a-kind features—backing onto Bell Lake and just 25–30 minutes from Halifax/Dartmouth! Step inside to find bright, open-concept living spaces filled with natural light, a stylish coffered ceiling, cozy propane fireplace with custom trim, updated lig
C$844900

Residential For Sale

57 Gosling Circle, Porters Lake, NS B3E 0C5
Keller Williams Select Realty
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$844900

Residential For Sale

3381 Long Island Road, Long Island, NS B1Y 3N1

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
32Picture(s)
1,642Sqft
3% Realty Nova Scotia
C$349000

Residential For Sale

3381 Long Island Road, Long Island, NS B1Y 3N1
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DetachedParking(s)
1,642Sqft
3% Realty Nova Scotia
Welcome to 3381 Long Island Road, a charming retreat nestled on over 3 acres of breathtaking land overlooking the world-famous Bras d'Or Lake. This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and serene coastal living, making it an ideal year-round residence or a tranquil getaway.
C$349000

Residential For Sale

3381 Long Island Road, Long Island, NS B1Y 3N1
3% Realty Nova Scotia
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$349000

Residential For Sale

11 Dark Pond Lane, West Petpeswick, NS B0J 2L0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
40Picture(s)
1,366Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
C$499900

Residential For Sale

11 Dark Pond Lane, West Petpeswick, NS B0J 2L0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,366Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
Attention homebuyers! This brand-new bungalow in the peaceful community of West Petpeswick offers the perfect mix of country living and modern comfort all for just $499,900.
C$499900

Residential For Sale

11 Dark Pond Lane, West Petpeswick, NS B0J 2L0
Exit Realty Metro
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$499900

Residential For Sale

857 Palmer Road, Millville, NS B0P 1C0

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,400Sqft
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
C$399900

Residential For Sale

857 Palmer Road, Millville, NS B0P 1C0
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,400Sqft
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
Spacious 4-Bedroom Split-Level Home on 1 Acre – Minutes from CFB Greenwood! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath split-level home, perfectly situated on a picturesque 1-acre lot just minutes from CFB Greenwood. With exceptional curb appeal, tasteful updates, and a host of outdoor amenities, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and tranquility.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

857 Palmer Road, Millville, NS B0P 1C0
Coldwell Banker Performance Realty
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$399900

Residential For Sale

59 Deep Brook Lane, Deep Brook, NS B0S 1J0

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
OtherParking(s)
50Picture(s)
1,802Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
C$875000

Residential For Sale

59 Deep Brook Lane, Deep Brook, NS B0S 1J0
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
OtherParking(s)
1,802Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Welcome to 59 Deep Brook Lane—a showstopping East Coast dream nestled at the end of a private lane on 74+/- acres of natural beauty. Perfectly elevated to capture sweeping panoramic views of the Annapolis Basin, this custom-built contemporary home, completed in 2021, is a masterclass in design, functionality, and lifestyle.
C$875000

Residential For Sale

59 Deep Brook Lane, Deep Brook, NS B0S 1J0
Exit Realty Town & Country
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$875000

Residential For Sale

5 Londra Court, Dartmouth, NS B2W 5A5

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
28Picture(s)
1,208Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
C$429900

Residential For Sale

5 Londra Court, Dartmouth, NS B2W 5A5
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
1,208Sqft
RE/MAX Nova
Welcome to 5 Londra, a beautifully updated home located in a vibrant family neighborhood that is perfect for creating lasting memories. This property is surrounded by a community-oriented atmosphere and is conveniently close to parks, schools, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal setting for families seeking an active and engaging lifestyle.
C$429900

Residential For Sale

5 Londra Court, Dartmouth, NS B2W 5A5
RE/MAX Nova
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$429900

Residential For Sale

11 Bridget Avenue, Halifax, NS B3R 1H8

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
14Picture(s)
636Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
C$214900

Residential For Sale

11 Bridget Avenue, Halifax, NS B3R 1H8
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
636Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
Welcome to 11 Bridget Avenue, Halifax - a beautifully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bath mini-home, perfectly located in a pet-friendly community just 10 minutes from downtown Halifax. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to downsize, this home offers a blending of modern style with classic comfort.
C$214900

Residential For Sale

11 Bridget Avenue, Halifax, NS B3R 1H8
Exit Realty Metro
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$214900

Residential For Sale

45 Shamrock Lane, Enfield, NS B2T 1C9

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
31Picture(s)
2,060Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Elmsdale)
C$530000

Residential For Sale

45 Shamrock Lane, Enfield, NS B2T 1C9
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,060Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Elmsdale)
Take a look at this beauty. Located in a slow paced subdivision in Enfield this 3 bedroom 2.5 bath has been completely transformed over the last few years. Open concept kitchen, dinning and family room. The laundry is on the main floor with a 2pc bath, large bright living room, fresh paint throughout, new flooring , new roof shingles and so much more.
C$530000

Residential For Sale

45 Shamrock Lane, Enfield, NS B2T 1C9
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Elmsdale)
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$530000

Residential For Sale

130 Capstone Crescent, Bedford, NS B4B 0H5

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,502Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
C$799000

Residential For Sale

130 Capstone Crescent, Bedford, NS B4B 0H5
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,502Sqft
Exit Realty Metro
Welcome to 130 Capstone Crescent, a stylish and comfortable home in the heart of Bedford West, offering a perfect blend of convenience and modern living. This 4-bedroom + den, 3.5-bath home is situated in one of Bedford's most sought-after communities, just minutes from top schools, parks, the Greenfoot Centre, a new transit terminal, and highway access.
C$799000

Residential For Sale

130 Capstone Crescent, Bedford, NS B4B 0H5
Exit Realty Metro
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$799000

Residential For Sale

287 Indian Point Road, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,035Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
C$1090000

Residential For Sale

287 Indian Point Road, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,035Sqft
Exit Realty Town & Country
Stunning waterfront home with modern comfort & classic charm in Mahone Bay! This beautifully restored waterfront home effortlessly blends timeless character with contemporary design. Enjoy mesmerizing ocean views from the front veranda and through a striking modern-engineered glass door that frames Mahone Bay’s sunrise-to-sunset splendor.
C$1090000

Residential For Sale

287 Indian Point Road, Mahone Bay, NS B0J 2E0
Exit Realty Town & Country
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$1090000

Residential For Sale

215 West Head Road, Western Head, NS B0T 1L0

2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
47Picture(s)
3,409Sqft
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
C$1190000

Residential For Sale

215 West Head Road, Western Head, NS B0T 1L0
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
3,409Sqft
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
Perched above the Atlantic on Nova Scotia’s treasured South Shore, this exceptional oceanfront estate offers over 17 acres of privacy and 1144 feet of bold coastline. Designed with a contemporary architectural vision, the single-level residence spans over 3400 square feet and captures sweeping panoramic views of the sea and nearby sandy beach from nearly every room.
C$1190000

Residential For Sale

215 West Head Road, Western Head, NS B0T 1L0
Sotheby's International Realty Canada
2Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$1190000

Residential For Sale

19 Lisa Court, Kingswood, NS B4B 1K4

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
30Picture(s)
2,527Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
C$740000

Residential For Sale

19 Lisa Court, Kingswood, NS B4B 1K4
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
2,527Sqft
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
Looking for a home offering more than just a place to live? Welcome to 19 Lisa Court! This home is a smart investment in location and lifestyle. Nestling in one of the most sought-after neighbourhood, Kingswood, known for its safety, convenience and strong sense of community, 19 Lisa Court stands like a quiet dream, offering tranquility and natural beauty.
C$740000

Residential For Sale

19 Lisa Court, Kingswood, NS B4B 1K4
RE/MAX Nova (Halifax)
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$740000
4681 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern