Your Guide to Mortgage Loans
Fixed-Rate These mortgages have the same interest rates for the length of the loan, which means your monthly payment will also never change. Although this guarantees stability as payments will never raise over time, the downside is that your interest rate will also never lower with the market. Fixed-rate mortgages are available for 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30–year terms. …
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How Commission Works in Real Estate
Something to keep in mind is that sellers can negotiate the commission, but buyers cannot. It’s also tax deductible! Here’s a breakdown of exactly where that commission fee ends up: Paid by Seller When signing a listing agreement, the seller acknowledges the commission rate they will need to pay, which is typically 6 percent. This amount is generally split …
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How to Handle a Last-Minute Closing Crisis
Crisis: Misplaced loan documents Sending your loan package overnight by express mail is not guaranteed to reach the seller’s agent on time. That’s why you and your realtor should stay in constant communication with the seller’s agent to make sure they have all the documents they need before your closing appointment. Call beforehand to confirm that all paperwork is ready …
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Where to Grab a Drink Near Encinitas
North County Wine Company, $$ Many would argue this to be the best wine bar in the Encinitas area. It’s a hybrid wine bar/wine shop that offers an impressive selection of wines from all over the world. The owners offer specials Tuesday through Sunday, but the locals are raving most about their Thursday deal: half-priced glasses of wine in the …
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Finding a Family-Friendly Home
If you’re a potential buyer who either already has children, or the intention of starting a family, the home search is going to look a little different for you. No need to fear—you’ll have quite a few options. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying a home that’s kid-friendly. Function Depending on the size of your …
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The Best Restaurants in Encinitas
California has long been a hub in the restaurant industry, and Encinitas has proven to be an area that’s full of up-and-coming names in both fine dining and casual. Here are some of the best places to dine for foodies— and people who just like to eat! American Solace and the Moonlight Lounge: 25 East E St, 760-753-2433. Try …
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Selling Your Home Successfully
Every seller wants to gain an edge in today’s competitive real estate market. Here are some suggestions on how to present an irresistible home. It’s All About Aesthetics To enhance “curb appeal”, make sure you have all the bases covered before even thinking about placing your home on the market. This includes fresh landscaping, power-washing the deck, painting the …
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How to Find the Home of Your Dreams
There’s more to buying than just making an offer—here are a few important things you’ll need to keep in mind when house-hunting. Do The Research Make sure you get familiar with market trends and values in the area in which you are looking to buy. Although your real estate agent will have this knowledge, you will find it much …
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What Makes a Great Real Estate Agent?
Representing the seller or buyer is the bare minimum of what it means to be a real estate agent. Here are the most important qualities to look for before you make a decision. A Background of Experience The best real estate agents have a diverse background of skills and knowledge; not only in real estate transactions, but also in personal …
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Buyers, Start Your Engines
Have you been renting for way too long, but aren’t sure if buying a home is worth the financial investment? Here are just a few reasons why the best time to buy real estate is now. Interest Rates are Low The average 30-year mortgage rate in the U.S. is currently just below 4 percent, and experts predict the Federal Reserve …
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