Category Archives: Home Buyers

7 Legal Risks to Consider When House Flipping

A sketch of a kitchen over the finished product, a symbol of the process involved in house flipping.

Are you considering buying residential properties, improving them, and selling them for profit? This is a common real estate investment strategy known as house flipping, and according to ATTOM, approximately 67,817 single-family homes and condominiums were flipped in the U.S. alone in the first quarter of 2024.

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How to Avoid Common Mortgage Pitfalls

A man experiencing stress as a result of some common mortgage pitfalls.

Navigating the mortgage process can be challenging, whether you are buying your first home, refinancing, or planning to sell. Missteps along the way can lead to long-term financial stress or — in the worst-case scenario — pre-foreclosure. Explore the common mortgage pitfalls and learn how to avoid them, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience.

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Building a Realistic Budget for Successful Home Flips

An open concept kitchen and dining room pre home-flip on the right, and completed on the left.

You are not alone if you like the idea of flipping houses for a profit. Many people have chosen to enter the home-flipping world, often inspired by numerous HGTV shows. However, they typically find the business more challenging than expected, particularly when creating a budget.

Budgeting is among the most critical parts of a home flip. Without adequate finances to back your project, you could end up with a prolonged timeline or go bankrupt. Here are the most important considerations for a home-flipping budget, how to estimate a realistic cost, and ways to stay on track with spending.

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The Hidden Costs of Homeownership: Maintenance, Taxes, and More

A house and a calculator as a symbol of the costs of homeownership.

Homeownership comes with more responsibility than living with your parents or renting from a landlord. However, most Americans look forward to buying their own home, one of the largest single purchases that they make in their lives.

In terms of financial responsibilities, many soon-to-be homeowners primarily focus on saving up for a down payment and monthly mortgage payments. Among the most overlooked financial considerations, particularly among first-time home buyers, are hidden costs.

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Finding a Forever Home Perfect for Your Pets

Five corgis settling in on a yellow chair in their forever home.

When searching for a forever home, it is essential to consider the needs of both your human family members and your beloved pets. Whether you have dogs, cats, reptiles, fish, birds or any other pet, the right home can significantly enhance their quality of life. Explore how you can find a pet-friendly home that caters to the unique needs of various pets.

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Own a Piece of History: Stunning St. Clair Riverfront Estate

The front of 4071 River Rd.
The current view of 4071 River Rd. in East China, Michigan.

Experience the charm and elegance of a bygone era with a rare opportunity to own a breathtaking St. Clair Riverfront Estate. This historic gem, featuring over 170 feet of picturesque riverfront on an international shipping channel, is now looking for its next owner.

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Understanding What Counts as Debt When Applying for a Mortgage

A person calculating out her debt-to-income ratio.

When you apply for a mortgage, your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) will play a vital role. The mortgage lenders will review your credit profile and check the DTI ratio to assess your affordability. So, the debt-to-income ratio will indicate how much debt you carry, such as credit card balances, payday loans, medical bills, personal loans, and utility bills against your monthly income.

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Will a Backsplash Add Value to Your Rental Home?

A wet bar surrounded by blue cabinets and decorative tile.

It is no surprise when two houses in the same neighborhood command rent at different prices. While they are often within the same range, one landlord can ask for up to $300 more per month, depending on what upgrades they have installed in their homes. It is one of the reasons real estate experts recommend regular repairs and frequent renovations to maximize your earning potential and stay ahead of the competition. Even seemingly small upgrades can improve your ROI, attracting more tenants and allowing you to charge more for your property. So, how about a backsplash? Will it add any value to your rental home? Let us find out. 

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How to Choose a Property with Ideal Features for Your Emotional Support Animal

A man in his living room with his emotional support animal.

If the time is approaching to find a new home for yourself and your beloved emotional support animal (ESA), you will want to look for a property where you will be safe, comfortable, and happy. It goes without saying that your animal’s needs differ greatly from your own, so it’s vital that you find a home that has the best features for you both.

Not quite sure what to look for? Fear not—we have put together a handy guide to choosing a property with ideal features for your ESA.

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Investing in History: How to Prepare for Buying a Historic Home

A historic home from Savannah, Georgia.

There are few things as charming as a historic home. Their unique charm, character, and rich sense of history make them highly desirable for many homebuyers. While historic homes are undeniably appealing, purchasing one requires thoughtful consideration and preparation. Understanding preservation regulations and anticipating renovation challenges are crucial aspects of navigating the purchase of a historic home, which is where a home inspector comes into play.

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