Special offer

Home Buying

Welcome to the ActiveRain Home Buying section. This is the place where you'll find comprehensive information on everything connected to purchasing a home – and we mean everything.


What exactly goes on in a home inspection and how is it different from a home appraisal? Curious about what it takes to purchase that foreclosure you've had your eye on? You'll find out how to do it right here. Look around: the professionals at ActiveRain have the information you need.


ActiveRain is the top real estate social network in the world. So, while you may find articles about purchasing a home on other websites, only at ActiveRain do you have the opportunity to read the words of wisdom from over 300,000 real estate industry professionals. From real estate agents to lenders to home inspectors and stagers -- that's a lot of brain power and we've harnessed it, right here at AR.


What are you waiting for? Everything you need to know about home buying awaits you on the following pages!

Recent blogs on Home Buying
By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Vista Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Charlemont NEWLY LISTED Breeze Hill Road | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1104 sq. ft. | $649,000 Shadowridge Aspens NEWLY LISTED Shadowridge Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 865 sq. ft. | $485,000 Shadowridge Glen NEWLY LISTED Lupine Hills Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1156 sq. ft. | $549,999
Comments 0
By Philip A. Raices, 1 of the Most Knowledgeable Brokers on the Net!
(Turn Key Real Estate)
All Things Real Estate:  By Philip A Raices - April 15, 2024 0  Share  Tweet  Pin  Email  Share I have dealt with literally thousands of buyer and seller clients over the last 42-plus years, listening to their specific “needs and wants” in finding a purchaser for their homes and buyers in their search for their “next place to call home.” The one common denominator was the location, location and most importantly the school district. Even for those downsizing or who were empty nesters, the majority weren’t concerned or gave little thought to schools being of any importance.  I conveyed to them that the better the schools, the more stable the prices and potentially greater resale value. I have found and truly understand the importance of an excellent above-average education; the accompanyi...
Comments 0
By Philip A. Raices, 1 of the Most Knowledgeable Brokers on the Net!
(Turn Key Real Estate)
       .woocommerce-product-gallery{ opacity: 1 !important; } .wpb_animate_when_almost_visible { opacity: 1; }   Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter   News Submit News ———————– Great Neck News Manhasset Times New Hyde Park Herald Courier Port Washington Times Roslyn Times Williston Times Special Sections Special sections Health/Wellness and Beauty 1.29.21 Banking and Finance 1.8.21 Holiday Gift and Party Guide 12.11.20 Health/Wellness and Beauty 11.27.20 Guide to Manhasset 11.13.20 ———————– Business Community News Great Neck Manhasset New Hyde Park Port Washington Roslyn Williston School News Graduation 2023 Great Neck Manhasset New Hyde Park Port Washington Roslyn Williston Entertainment Politics Sports Travel Opinions Read Opinions Submit Opinion CONTEST Best of Nassau County Contest ...
Comments 0
By Abby Stiller, SW Florida (239) 284-8637
(TOP SELLING REALTY)
HUGE Price reduction to this meticulously remodeled home in Cape Coral, FL   Don’t miss the opportunity to own this with endless possibilities: First time home Buyers Airbnb investment Long time rental investment   No restrictions of association and NO HOA Fees here!   This 1730 SQFT home with 4 full spacious bedrooms, 2 baths, on oversized corner lot Comes with:   Hurricane shutters protection Newer Roof New kitchen & appliances New flooring, light fixtures, paint, bathroom vanities & toilets It’s in zone X (not flood zone) Great location in Cape Coral   1130 NW 1ST AVE, CAPE CORAL FL 33993   Let’s connect: 239-284-8637   Bernie & Abby Stiller Top Selling Realty Ich Spreche Deutsch Hablamos Español   #capecoralhomesforsale #homesinflorida #homeforsaleflorida
Comments 3
By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Point Loma Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Anchor Cove NEWLY LISTED Historic Decatur Road | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1101 sq. ft. | $1,150,000 RECENTLY SOLD Historic Decatur Road | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1101 sq. ft. | $1,050,000
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
San Juan Capistrano Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Capistrano Villas BACK ON THE MARKET Calle La Purisima | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1057 sq. ft. | $559,000 RECENTLY SOLD La Zanja Street | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1124 sq. ft. | $559,000 Mesa Vista North BACK ON THE MARKET Paseo La Serna | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1692 sq. ft. | $1,225,000 RECENTLY SOLD Paseo Ravenna | 3 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1692 sq. ft. | $999,999 San Juan Hills RECENTLY SOLD W Paseo Burladero | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1680 sq. ft. | $798,000
Comments 0
By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2801 Chancellorsville Dr #335, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$239900 2 Beds - 2 Baths - 10890 sqft Lot Photos Maps & Local Schools Print This sleek updated 3rd floor condo is conveniently located in the desirable NE gated community of Barrington Park between WalMart and Chili's so both are only a few steps away. Condo features 2 BR's and 2 full baths with an upstairs loft perfect for a guest suite or office. The kitchen and baths feature brand new granite, sinks and plumbing fixtures and imported Italian tile flooring. Stainless steel appliances and upgraded light fixtures complement this contemporary home. Publix, Target, many restaurants and shopping are all within one mile of the community and I-10 is within 5 minutes. The neighborhood offers amenities such as a clubho...
Comments 3
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Anaheim Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Westwood Village RECENTLY SOLD Cerritos Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 504 sq. ft. | $369,000
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Ladera Ranch Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Berkshire RECENTLY SOLD Agave Court | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1458 sq. ft. | $798,000 Sycamore Grove RECENTLY SOLD Lansdale Court | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1800 sq. ft. | $975,000 Valmont RECENTLY SOLD Valmont Way | 1 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1114 sq. ft. | $599,900
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Dana Point Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Silvertide NEWLY LISTED Baycrest Place | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1221 sq. ft. | $985,000 The Fountains at Sea Bluffs RECENTLY SOLD Sea Bluffs Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 858 sq. ft. | $315,000
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Orange Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Walnut Village RECENTLY SOLD W Walnut Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1190 sq. ft. | $679,000
Comments 0
By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Mortgage 101: Thinking of financing, refinancing, or just needing to understand how the process works? It all starts here. We research whether it's a VA, FHA, conventional, or non-traditional loan for you. We can help simplify the process and remove the challenges.How to Get Mortgage Info and a FREE Credit Report"Explore our latest inventory of homes or conduct your search at your convenience.Are you looking to enter the market as a first-time homebuyer in Pensacola? Let Charles Stallions, your trusted real estate broker, guide you through the process with these essential tips: Act swiftly: The current market in Pensacola is fast-paced with low inventory. Homes are selling quickly, often within days of being listed. To stay ahead of the competition, be prepared to move swiftly when you ...
Comments 2
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Aliso Viejo Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Latitudes North RECENTLY SOLD Brownstone Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1594 sq. ft. | $788,000 Latitudes South RECENTLY SOLD Brownstone Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1594 sq. ft. | $788,000 Morningside BACK ON THE MARKET Birchwood Lane | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1174 sq. ft. | $725,000 Seacove Place RECENTLY SOLD Fulmar Lane | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1372 sq. ft. | $815,000 St. Tropez RECENTLY SOLD Mansera Place | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1072 sq. ft. | $660,000 Twelve Picket Lane RECENTLY SOLD Nantucket Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1509 sq. ft. | $985,000 Victoria NEWLY LISTED Cape Victoria | 4 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1688 sq. ft. | $999,000 Vista Plaza BACK ON THE MARKET Cottonwood Drive | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1654 sq. ft....
Comments 0
By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
If you’re thinking about buying a home, chances are you’ve got mortgage rates on your mind. You’ve heard about how they impact how much you can afford in your monthly mortgage payment, and you want to make sure you’re factoring that in as you plan your move.The problem is, with all the headlines in the news about rates lately, it can be a bit overwhelming to sort through. Here’s a quick rundown of what you really need to know.The Latest on Mortgage RatesRates have been volatile – that means they’re bouncing around a bit. And, you may be wondering, why? The answer is complicated because rates are affected by so many factors.Things like what’s happening in the broader economy and the job market, the current inflation rate, decisions made by the Federal Reserve, and a whole lot more have a...
Comments 4
By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
4880 Quail Valley Road, TALLAHASSEE, FL Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Click here to Get Directions$930000 4 Beds - 3.5 Baths - 1.81 sqft Lot OPEN HOUSE 4/20 from 12PM - 2PM! Nestled on a sprawling 1.8 acre lot, this White Oak Construction 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom luxury POOL home is ready for summer! This home has a gorgeous updated kitchen with Thermador appliances, Calacatta quartz counters, beautiful solid wood and brick floors, and detailed trim work throughout. The sitting room off the kitchen works well as a supervised study space, play area, or home office. Ample space with 3 bedrooms downstairs, an additional bedroom and bath upstairs, and a HUGE 32x24 bonus space with wet bar is perfect for both watching movies and family game nights. Enjoy the expansive back porch overlook...
Comments 4
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Laguna Beach Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Laguna Ocean Vista BACK ON THE MARKET Ocean Vista Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1737 sq. ft. | $2,099,000
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Yorba Linda Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Fairmont Hill NEWLY LISTED Flower Gate Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1062 sq. ft. | $745,000 Kellogg Terrace NEWLY LISTED Alamo Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 921 sq. ft. | $519,900 RECENTLY SOLD Rockwood Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 921 sq. ft. | $560,000 Rancho Linda RECENTLY SOLD Linda Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 882 sq. ft. | $499,000 The Hills BACK ON THE MARKET Copper Canyon Road | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1252 sq. ft. | $569,000
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Mission Viejo Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Aegean Heights RECENTLY SOLD Triton Court | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1986 sq. ft. | $949,000 Alta Finisterra RECENTLY SOLD Coso | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1750 sq. ft. | $795,000 Baja Finisterra RECENTLY SOLD Poveda | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1269 sq. ft. | $710,000 Cypress Point RECENTLY SOLD Saint Andrews | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 2041 sq. ft. | $1,000,000 Finisterra on the Lake BACK ON THE MARKET Redondela | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1228 sq. ft. | $715,000 Hillcrest Village RECENTLY SOLD Turquoise | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 942 sq. ft. | $649,900 Las Palmas RECENTLY SOLD Sanz | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 878 sq. ft. | $579,000 Mirasol BACK ON THE MARKET Chaumont | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1664 sq. ft. | $968,000 Rainbow Ridge RECENTL...
Comments 0
By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
I have been doing renovation loan consulting for 30 years now and it baffles me how many Realtors don't have a clue. We made an offer on a home and they want to know how you are going to finance it... none of their business, but they all seem to ask. I told them we'll be putting $100,000 down and using VA for the balance. We wait to hear they accepted the offer so we can get our home inspection and pest inspection, roof inspections, ordered. This house is on the East Coast and I'm on the West Coast moving their in 30 days or so. I'd like to get the repairs started before I get there. LOLThe seller's agent tells us that the home needs work and she is sure it can't go VA. Well, that is BS, it can go VA and they do have a renovation loan product, but regardless we can change it to a 203k F...
Comments 8
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Crucial advice! Getting pre-approved offers a competitive edge in the homebuying process. This blog likely explains the benefits of pre-approval and why it's a recommended step for serious buyers. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Getting pre-approved instead of just pre-qualified is highly recommended for buyers because it shows sellers that you are a serious and qualified buyer. Pre-approval involves a more in-depth financial review, including verification of income, assets, and credit history. This gives you a more accurate idea of how much you can afford to spend on a property and strengthens your offer when competing with other offers that are just pre-qualified buyers. This gives you a stronger position in the homebuying process and a clear idea of how much can...
Comments 3