Many lenders charge Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) as an additional fee when your down payment on a home is less than 20 percent. This monthly cost can add up, but there are smart ways to get around it. Some buyers choose to make a larger payment upfront to avoid it, while others explore lender programs … Read more

If you have less than a 20 percent down payment, getting private mortgage insurance (PMI) is usually required by the lender to reduce their risk. This allows borrowers with a small initial investment to still qualify for a loan and become homeowners. PMI makes you an attractive candidate for financing even if you don’t have … Read more

When you sell an investment property for a profit and receive cash, the taxman is always ready to take his cut. However, with a 1031 tax-deferred exchange, you can roll over the gain from the sale into another investment property without being taxed. This opportunity is only available for income properties and does not apply … Read more

Being in a situation where you’re behind on your mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially if you know that making future payments will be tough. I’ve seen many homeowners at this stage, wondering what steps they must take to avoid losing their home. The key is to act fast—don’t wait until you’re close to being foreclosed … Read more

Single-family homes are self-standing residences where a paying tenant, whether a person, group, or family, lives independently. These properties often increase in value, making them a strong real estate investment. Pros Cons High appreciation potential Risk of vacancies Easier to sell compared to multi-family homes Limited rental income Lower maintenance costs Harder to find long-term … Read more

Buying an investment property can be a challenging yet rewarding process, especially for beginners. The first step is to research the real estate market, understand trends, and identify locations with strong potential. Investing wisely means analyzing costs, estimating rental income, and ensuring the deal aligns with long-term financial goals. The purchase phase can feel stressful, … Read more

Buying a vacation home is an exciting step, but since it’s a major purchase, it’s important to think things through carefully. I remember the thrill of searching for mine, but I quickly realized that making the best choice required research and planning. Location, budget, and long-term value are key factors, and getting expert suggestions can … Read more

Looking for a motor home can be exciting, but finding the best one takes effort. Whether you’re considering a recreational vehicle (RV) for road trips or full-time living, it’s important to explore the market before making a decision. Take time to shop around and compare models, features, and prices to get the most value for … Read more

When buyers plan to invest in a property, a professional home inspection is crucial to uncover hidden defects that could lead to costly repairs. Without a thorough inspection, unexpected costs might arise, causing delays or even cancellations of the sale. For sellers, getting an inspection before listing the home on the market ensures transparency and … Read more

When buying a home, it is important to understand the risks involved, just like with any other major investment. The process of evaluating the risk/reward can be challenging because purchasing a home is not just a financial decision but also an emotional one. Unlike other investments, where logic usually guides decisions, emotions often make it … Read more