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

49 Lew Crescent, Lantz, NS B2S 2A5

3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
8Picture(s)
2,169Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
C$560400

Residential For Sale

49 Lew Crescent, Lantz, NS B2S 2A5
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2,169Sqft
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
Enjoy the extra space and privacy of this premium lot, perfectly positioned next to the Kiln Creek walking trail. The Harbour by Integrity Homes, where modern design, functionality, and exceptional value come together. Located in the thoughtfully planned community of Kiln Creek in Lantz, East Hants, this beautifully crafted semi-detached home offers 2,169 square feet of well-designed living space.
C$560400

Residential For Sale

49 Lew Crescent, Lantz, NS B2S 2A5
Royal LePage Atlantic (Enfield)
3Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$560400

Residential For Sale

126 Aspen Crescent, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 1C9

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
19Picture(s)
1,900Sqft
Steve Ingram Realty Ltd.
C$450000

Residential For Sale

126 Aspen Crescent, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 1C9
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,900Sqft
Steve Ingram Realty Ltd.
Heart of Sackville, Walk to all schools, shopping, sports stadium. We are priced here for a quick sale however cannot Close til early November, tenant situation to respect please. Four Bedrooms, Two baths, level lot with nice backyard.
C$450000

Residential For Sale

126 Aspen Crescent, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 1C9
Steve Ingram Realty Ltd.
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$450000

Residential For Sale

1161 Falmouth Back Road, Upper Falmouth, NS B0P 1P0

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
49Picture(s)
790Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc.
C$374900

Residential For Sale

1161 Falmouth Back Road, Upper Falmouth, NS B0P 1P0
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
790Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc.
Discover the perfect blend of style and serenity in this delightful 1.5-storey home in Upper Falmouth.
C$374900

Residential For Sale

1161 Falmouth Back Road, Upper Falmouth, NS B0P 1P0
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc.
1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$374900

Residential For Sale

23 Conrod Road, Grand Desert, NS B0J 2L0

2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
50Picture(s)
998Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
C$399900

Residential For Sale

23 Conrod Road, Grand Desert, NS B0J 2L0
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
998Sqft
Keller Williams Select Realty
Welcome to 23 Conrod Road, Grand Desert – This charming two-bedroom, one-bath home has been extensively renovated and is move-in ready. Step inside to find fresh, modern finishes throughout, including all-new luxury vinyl plank flooring, a completely updated kitchen & bathroom, stylish new light fixtures, and a fresh coat of paint in every room. Updated windows & siding as well.
C$399900

Residential For Sale

23 Conrod Road, Grand Desert, NS B0J 2L0
Keller Williams Select Realty
2Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$399900

Residential For Sale

84 Westwind Ridge, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3B4

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
42Picture(s)
1,842Sqft
One Percent Realty East Inc.
C$539900

Residential For Sale

84 Westwind Ridge, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3B4
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
DoubleParking(s)
1,842Sqft
One Percent Realty East Inc.
Set on a generous 2.1-acre lot in a tranquil neighborhood, this meticulously maintained split-entry home blends lush landscaping with practical living. Mature apple trees and beautifully designed perennial beds complement a southwest-facing backyard—a gardener’s dream. Meandering forest trails begin right in your backyard, inviting outdoor discovery and peaceful strolls.
C$539900

Residential For Sale

84 Westwind Ridge, Middle Sackville, NS B4E 3B4
One Percent Realty East Inc.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$539900

Residential For Sale

232 Acadia Street, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4G6

3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
48Picture(s)
1,427Sqft
Red Door Realty
C$297000

Residential For Sale

232 Acadia Street, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4G6
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,427Sqft
Red Door Realty
Charming Character Home with Modern Updates - Welcome to 232 Acadia Street – a beautifully updated two-storey single-family home nestled in the desirable North End of New Glasgow. Blending timeless character with modern upgrades, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath gem is move-in ready and perfect for families or professional couples seeking both comfort and convenience.
C$297000

Residential For Sale

232 Acadia Street, New Glasgow, NS B2H 4G6
Red Door Realty
3Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$297000

Residential For Sale

102 Old Foxbrook Road, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0

4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
31Picture(s)
2,270Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Pictou)
C$250000

Residential For Sale

102 Old Foxbrook Road, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,270Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Pictou)
Located on a quiet street and set on a large lot, this well-built 2-storey home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an attached double garage. Featuring a formal dining room, formal living room, and an eat-in kitchen, plus a large family room with a cozy pellet stove. The partially finished basement provides extra living space, while heat pumps offer efficient heating and cooling year-round.
C$250000

Residential For Sale

102 Old Foxbrook Road, Stellarton, NS B0K 1S0
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Pictou)
4Bedroom(s)
3Bathroom(s)
C$250000

Residential For Sale

52 Amberwood Crescent, Westmount, NS B1P 2J8

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
23Picture(s)
2,948Sqft
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
C$549900

Residential For Sale

52 Amberwood Crescent, Westmount, NS B1P 2J8
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,948Sqft
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
Stunning Executive Bungalow in Ridgefield Estates – Your Dream Home Awaits! Welcome to your new sanctuary in the highly sought-after Ridgefield Estates! This exquisite executive bungalow boasts a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience, making it the ideal choice for families and professionals alike.
C$549900

Residential For Sale

52 Amberwood Crescent, Westmount, NS B1P 2J8
RE/MAX NOVA (Windsor)
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$549900

Residential For Sale

26 Grove Street, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3L7

3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,200Sqft
Roger Burns Real Estate Ltd.
C$249500

Residential For Sale

26 Grove Street, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3L7
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
SingleParking(s)
2,200Sqft
Roger Burns Real Estate Ltd.
I BEDROOM IN MAIN HOME PLUS A TWO BEDROOM ON TOP FLOOR WITH SEPERATE ENTRANCE VERY CLEAN HOME UP AND DOWN. LARGE PROPERTY PLUS A 10x16 detached garage work shop plus an 8x8 shed LARGE PATIO ON SIDE OF HOME THIS HOME HAS GREAT POTENTIAL FOR INCOME OR FOR THE NEWER ONES JUST STARTING OUT. TWO BEDROOM UNIT IS EMPTY AND READY FOR NEW TENNANTS.
C$249500

Residential For Sale

26 Grove Street, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3L7
Roger Burns Real Estate Ltd.
3Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$249500

Residential For Sale

2 Abbey Road, Amherst, NS B4H 4T2

4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
50Picture(s)
2,736Sqft
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
C$379900

Residential For Sale

2 Abbey Road, Amherst, NS B4H 4T2
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
AttachedParking(s)
2,736Sqft
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
This beautiful Cape Cod-style home sits on a manicured 9,992 sq/ft parcel in one of Amherst’s premier neighborhoods. Pride of ownership is evident inside and out, with both the home and grounds in excellent condition. Entering through the single attached garage, you’re greeted by a convenient mudroom with main-level laundry.
C$379900

Residential For Sale

2 Abbey Road, Amherst, NS B4H 4T2
Royal LePage Cumberland Realty Ltd.
4Bedroom(s)
4Bathroom(s)
C$379900

Residential For Sale

304 Harmony Ridge Road, Harmony, NS B6L 3P1

4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
20Picture(s)
1,668Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
C$349000

Residential For Sale

304 Harmony Ridge Road, Harmony, NS B6L 3P1
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
GravelParking(s)
1,668Sqft
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
Visit REALTOR® website for additional information. 4-Bedroom Bungalow with over 1600 square feet of living space on beautiful Harmony Ridge Road! Nestled on picturesque Harmony Mountain, just minutes from Truro, this well-maintained 4-bedroom bungalow offers the perfect blend of space, comfort, and privacy on a generous 1.15-acre lot.
C$349000

Residential For Sale

304 Harmony Ridge Road, Harmony, NS B6L 3P1
PG Direct Realty Ltd.
4Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
C$349000

Residential For Sale

246 James Street, New Waterford, NS B1H 2X8

4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
26Picture(s)
1,400Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
C$169000

Residential For Sale

246 James Street, New Waterford, NS B1H 2X8
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
No GarageParking(s)
1,400Sqft
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
Spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in a great neighbourhood. This beautifully updated home features a fully renovated kitchen and bathrooms, fresh paint throughout, and numerous recent upgrades making it truly move in ready. An extra lot on the side with a separate PID, offers fantastic potential for expansion, gardening, or recreation.
C$169000

Residential For Sale

246 James Street, New Waterford, NS B1H 2X8
Viewpoint Realty Services Inc. (Sydney)
4Bedroom(s)
2Bathroom(s)
C$169000
4854 Results returned.Per Page
Style Selector
Select the layout
Choose the theme
Preset colors
No Preset
Select the pattern