real estate investment: No Kidding - It's A Great Time to Buy a Home! - 12/09/10 08:32 AM
Earlier this year Congress passed a stimulus to breathe some life into the housing market.  An $8000 tax credit for first time homebuyers created a spurt of sales.  If you missed out on this opportunity or did not qualify, don't worry, it is still a great time to buy a home.  With a glut of inventory, low prices and rock bottom interest rates, you will save $8000 many times over during the course of a 30 year mortgage loan.
Special lending options are available as well.  100% financing is available to Veterans, and for homes in USDA designated rural areas.  FHA financing … (0 comments)

real estate investment: Home Buyers!! Avoid These Mistakes!! - 01/23/10 03:36 AM
Many prospective buyers who have been sitting on the real estate fence will be thinking more seriously about a home purchase in the year ahead. And why not? Interest rates are still very attractive, prices are still competitive, and more buyers than ever may qualify for a substantial tax credit just for making a purchase.
With a little planning, inexperienced buyers can sidestep some common mistakes and make their home purchase a successful one.
Here are four home-buying mistakes you don't want to make:
● Not getting prequalified by a reputable local lender.
Until you sit down with a reputable lender and … (3 comments)

real estate investment: Is it Time to Invest in Rentals? - 02/09/09 08:27 AM
With the overabundance of homes on the market today, along with declining prices and record low interest rates, many of us are wondering if this is the right time to acquire a rental property.  The timing is certainly right, but be sure to select the right property.
To be income producing, a rental home should habitable and in a safe area, and preferably have at least 3 bedrooms and 2 baths.  Neighboring homes should be in good condition and in a better school district.  Newer homes will be more attractive to renters and will not require expensive maintenance.  Due diligence is of the essence--be sure to … (0 comments)