Tuesday, November 24, 2015

FHA LOANS - FHA Inspections Are Not General Home Inspections

File:Magnifying glass icon mgx2.svgIf you're thinking of purchasing a home with an FHA loan backed by the federal government, there are a few things you need to know in the loan closing process to make sure you don't miss any potentially expensive problems in the home you're about to purchase. When an FHA inspection is scheduled, you might falsely believe you're covered for a home inspection.




 It's important to know that an FHA home inspection is NOT identical to regular home inspections completed by certified home inspectors. FHA home inspections are more like appraisals and safety checks that the government uses to determine the value and safety of the home, not to discover defects. FHA inspections confirm that the property meets all minimum property standards as outlined by the federal government. Properties that do not meet these property standards are not eligible for FHA loans.

Therefore, it is important to hire a certified home inspector to complete an inspection of the home you're buying with an FHA loan. This professional home inspector will thoroughly inspect your home and list all the potential defects and issues that buyers need to be aware of before closing/settlement. It is best to accompany the inspector during the inspection to get a better understanding of the home you're about to purchase. If you have any questions, please contact your lender about FHA loans and us for recommended home inspectors in our area.

Friday, July 10, 2015

Curious about the value of homes in your neighborhood? Use our Market Snapshot and find out instantly.

Curious how homes are selling in your neighborhood?  Want the current Listings to compare to your home?
Check out are new search engine giving you comparable in your neighborhood instantly. Free ~ no obligation. 

Thursday, June 25, 2015

Staging Works | Showcased Homes Stand Out, Sell For More

www.WilmingtonNC-realestate.com

Thinking of Staging? 
According to the National Association of REALTORS® 2015 Profile of Home Staging Report, staging a home can make a difference in how buyers perceive a home and positively affect the sale price.
Key findings include:
• An emphatic 81% of real estate pros said staging helps buyers visualize the home as their own.
• Buyers are more likely to tour staged homes after seeing them online said almost half of the real estate pros.
• Buyer agents believe that staging can increase the dollar value offered by buyers from 1% to 5%.
• The median cost spent on home staging by sellers is $675.
• Real estate professionals surveyed said that the top room to stage was the living room followed by the kitchen, master bedroom, dining room and bathroom.

In today's market it's critical to give your home a "Wow Factor" in the eyes of buyers. Clean, de-clutter and make every room look as inviting as a model home—and your home will command the best possible price. Contact us for tips on how to stage right or for professional stager recommendations.
You have only one chance to be the next great new listing!   Call us.  910-202-3607 or kaybakerassociates@ec.rr.com for more information.  

Thursday, May 14, 2015

"Owning a home is one big tax deduction; owning a vacation home can be two--or more."

"Owning a home is one big tax deduction; owning a vacation home can be two--or more."

A vacation home may be more affordable than you think. Did you know the interest paid for a second home's mortgage is tax deductible? In fact, tapping the equity in your first home to put a down payment on a second home can actually give you three (total) mortgage-interest tax deductions. Interest paid on equity loans is tax deductible too!

If you're thinking about purchasing a second or vacation home, ask your tax professional to run the numbers for you. And be sure to check IRS regulations if you intend to rent out your second home for income.

www.yourhome123.com/infocenter.asp?UserID=138856&ArticleID=82&SubjectID=5&HC=<<CTHC>>