Category: Buying A Home

Three digits. They may be all that is standing between you and your own home or continuing to rent. Known as your “credit score,” those digits reflect how risky it will be to lend you money. The score may also impact other aspects of the homebuying process as well.   How your credit score is calculated The road to your credit score, also known as a FICO® Score, begins with the credit reporting agencies. Known as “the big three,” they include Equifax, TransUnion® and Experian®. The information the agencies collect ends up in the hands of the Fair Isaac Corporation

Most homeowners can clearly recall that moment it became clear that they could, and would, buy a home. Ditching the landlord is a dream of many and when you can see that dream – grasp it – it’s intoxicating. It’s easy to jump right into the process and let the cards fall where they may, but it’s not wise. There’s a system to buying a home, and those that are successful follow the steps. Before you jump online to look at homes for sale, start with the basics: the 3 basic things you need to buy a home in Oakland.

There are two phases of the home selling process that throw most homeowners for a loop: The home inspection and the appraisal. Both can have a major impact on the home’s market value and, thus, how much money can be realized from the sale. Repairs suggested on the home inspection report can be negotiated between the buyer and seller. While both can break the sale, the appraised value isn’t something you can negotiate. This is why it’s so important to work with a real estate agent to determine the current market value of your home. Then, do everything you can

In all the excitement of moving and trying to get settled in your new home in Oakland, the last thing you want is a honey-do list, right? Some things, however, shouldn’t be put off and need to be taken care of now. So, push the boxes aside for a day or two and let’s get ‘er done! 1. Change the locks Although this may seem like a no-brainer, changing the door locks on a new home is something many homebuyers neglect doing. Hey, when you consider all the little details that need attention, such as changing over the utilities, registering

Real estate has three primary rules: Location Location Location When something has to be repeated three times for it to sink in, you know it’s an important issue. And, when it comes to determining a home’s value – now and in the future – location is king. When real estate agents, lenders and appraisers talk about location, however, they aren’t just referring to whether the home sits on a sandy beach. There are many aspects they take into account when determining how a home’s particular location impacts its value. Commute times Studies show that the most expensive housing markets have