We have a lot of people call us and ask us if we have any “rent to own” properties available. More commonly among Realtors, we say lease/purchase or owner finance properties depending on what the buyer is truly talking about. 
 
Rent-to-own agreements can seem appealing to potential homebuyers who cannot qualify for a traditional mortgage. However, the terms and potential pitfalls of such arrangements warrant careful consideration. Let's explore how rent-to-own agreements typically work and the pros and cons involved.
 
Rent-to-own can be a solution for those who cannot immediately qualify for a mortgage but aspire to homeownership. However, it often involves higher costs and significant risks, mainly benefiting the seller. Thoroughly understand the agreement, consult with a real estate professional, and ensure your financial situation is likely to improve within the specified term before committing.
 

1. Down Payment and Purchase Pri ...

In today’s age of digital information and seemingly endless DIY tutorials, it’s tempting to consider handling your real estate transactions solo, without the assistance of a professional Realtor. However, while it might seem like a cost-saving measure at first, the decision to forego a Realtor can lead to various pitfalls and headaches down the road that can cost you both time and money. We interviewed the team at License Classroom, a GREC approved real estate education provider, to bring you the top reasons why hiring a Realtor is not just advisable but essential when navigating the complexities of real estate transactions.

1. MARKET KNOWLEDGE
Realtors are experts in their local markets. They have access to up-to-date information about property values, neighborhood trends, and market conditions that can significantly influence your buying or selling decisions. With their knowledge and insights, Realtors can help you make informed choices that align with your goals a ...

When you purchase a home, you're not just buying walls and a roof; you're investing in a place where memories will be made. It's likely one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. But with that dream of homeownership comes a level of risk. What if someone claims ownership of your property due to a clerical error or undisclosed heir? Title insurance is your safety net, ensuring that you and your family can enjoy your home without the fear of unexpected legal issues. Let's explore what title insurance is, why you need it, and how it can protect your most valuable asset.

WHAT IS TITLE INSURANCE?
Title insurance for homeowners secures your property rights. 

Before purchasing your home, the process involves investigating, resolving any issues, and then insuring the title, ensuring protection for your property rights throughout your ownership and that of your successors.
In the event of any dispute over property ownership, owner's title insurance safeg ...

Considering the prospect of becoming a homeowner? It's crucial to recognize that your credit score plays a pivotal role in the homebuying process, particularly in securing a favorable home loan. Lenders scrutinize your credit to evaluate your repayment reliability, debt management, and other financial aspects. Moreover, your credit score significantly influences the mortgage rate you may qualify for, as elucidated by a Bankrate article:
“Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders consider when you apply for a mortgage. Not just to qualify for the loan itself, but for the conditions: Typically, the higher your score, the lower the interest rates and better terms you’ll qualify for.”

Given the current emphasis on mortgage rates as a key element of affordability, your credit score holds even greater significance. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, the median credit score for U.S. individuals obtaining a mortgage stands at 765. Ho! ...

Purchasing a new home can be an exciting experience. There are a lot of advantages, from being the first owner to choosing the features of your home, but this process can also be a little overwhelming. This is where a skilled real estate agent can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll go into the complexities of purchasing a new construction property, providing light on the process, its pros and cons, and why the Trisha Cook Team specializes in guiding you through this exciting venture.

Understanding the Timeline:
One of the unique aspects of purchasing a new construction home is the time it takes to bring your vision to life. Patience is key, as the process can span up to 8 or 9 months. This timeline encompasses various stages, including planning, permitting, construction, and finalizing details. While it requires a bit more time than purchasing an existing home, the payoff is a space crafted to your specifications.

Pros of Buying a New Construction Home:

Customizat. ...