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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 Rick Cordisco, Pocono Real Estate Professional
(Pocono Mountain Lakes Realty )
Thinking about which area to pick for your dream vacation home in the scenic Pocono Mountains can be a tough choice with so many wonderful nooks and cranies of the region to consider. As you search, don’t overlook the smaller, lesser known communities in the Poconos. One such community is Camelot Forest, located on the Pocono Plateau. While not as flashy as some communities in the area, here, you’ll find quiet and convenience.Camelot Forest, a premier community that was once an operating dairy farm, is located in the northwest corner of Monroe County in the town of Blakeslee. The community is tucked away amongst large and looming trees, backed up in parts to the Pocono Lake Preserve. Camelot boasts two lakes with a beach, and amenities for playing tennis. Winter sports lover? Look no fu...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Why Working with a Buyer’s Agent Is a Game-ChangerIn today’s dynamic real estate market, the role of a buyer’s agent goes far beyond just opening doors and writing offers. Buyers are looking for a trusted advisor who can guide them through one of life’s biggest decisions with confidence and care. Here’s why having a dedicated buyer’s agent is invaluable and how I can make a difference for you.Your Advocate in the Complex World of Real EstateNavigating the real estate market can be overwhelming, but that’s where I come in. My role isn’t just to find you a home; it’s to be your advocate, handling the stress, negotiations, and intricate details so you don’t have to. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or exploring multiple offers, I use my expertise to ensure you make informed decisions with...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Broker, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Low ball is actually no ball.  Do you want to play, then pay.  Or the option is to take your ball and go home.  Finesse Over Arrogance: The Pros and Cons of Lowball Offers in Real Estate In the competitive world of real estate, making the right offer can be the difference between securing your dream home and watching it slip away. One strategy often employed by buyers is the lowball offer—proposing a price significantly below the asking amount, hoping to snag a bargain. But is this tactic effective, or does it reveal a lack of finesse in the art of negotiation? Let’s explore the pros and cons of lowball offers, under the premise that "lowballing is for amateurs," while a more refined approach—getting an offer accepted and then negotiating—is often the better path. The Pros of Lowball Of...
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On August 26, 2024, Cathie Ericson published a very good interesting report on Realtor.com about do home buyers need to sign a contract to tour homes.1. Do you need to sign a contract?2. How to avoid a misunderstanding,Perhaps there might be other helpful information about do home buyers need to sign a contract to tour homes.For complete more detailed information about Cathie Ericson’s report for do home buyers need to sign a contract to tour homes, please click HERE
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
710 Piedmont Drive, TALLAHASSEE, FL Click here to Get Directions$590000 3 Beds - 2 Baths - 0.92 sqft Lot Photos Maps & Local Schools Print This delightfully charming one-story home located on convenient Piedmont Drive has been tastefully renovated to maintain all the character of what everyone loves in a quality-built older home. Just minutes from Market Square District, this property offers easy access to both N. Meridian and Thomasville Road. Featuring flawless wood floors throughout, the open floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen to the family room and the multi-functional Florida sunroom which currently functions as a dining area. The original dining room is currently being used as a library/office. The huge picture window in the front living room provides ample natural light ...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
3994 Camino Real, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$250,000 3 Beds - 2 Baths - Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Home is HERE! Great location for a well appointed home on large .47 acre lot! Enjoy vaulted ceiling, split bedroom floor plan, and absolutely NO Carpet at all! Tile or laminate flooring throughout. Spacious master suite with walk in closet. Separate living room and ample room in the kitchen to move around without bumping into anyone. Fenced backyard perfect for the pet! Compensation: 3% buyer's agent compensation Follow This Home
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Santa Monica Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Enchanted View BACK ON THE MARKET Centinela Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1301 sq. ft. | $895,000 Ocean Towers RECENTLY SOLD Ocean Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 906 sq. ft. | $985,000 Sea Colony II RECENTLY SOLD Neilson Way | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1229 sq. ft. | $1,295,000 701 Grant RECENTLY SOLD Grant Street | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 932 sq. ft. | $850,000 943 12th St NEWLY LISTED 12Th Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 777 sq. ft. | $849,000 Stanford Gardens BACK ON THE MARKET Stanford Street | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1499 sq. ft. | $1,249,000
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By Rosie Crow, Exceeding Expectations. Delivering Results
(Serving Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Missouri City)
When I work with homebuyers, I always start with a consultation where we dive into everything—your needs and wants, the current market, the home buying process, and the importance of understanding how brokerage services work including the buyer’s representation agreement.Recently, the National Association of Realtors introduced a new requirement that a buyer’s representation agreement must be signed before I can show you any homes. I understand this might feel a bit daunting.I completely get why some homebuyers might hesitate at this step. It’s important to me that you feel comfortable and confident working with someone you trust to prioritize your best interests. That’s why there’s a short-form Buyer’s Representation Agreement available if you’re not ready to commit to full service jus...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Brentwood Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 11907 Darlington RECENTLY SOLD Darlington Avenue | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1449 sq. ft. | $1,299,000 The Brentwood BACK ON THE MARKET San Vicente Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 2254 sq. ft. | $1,390,000 Villa Montana RECENTLY SOLD Montana Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1269 sq. ft. | $995,000 Villa Trocadero BACK ON THE MARKET Darlington Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1749 sq. ft. | $1,200,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Reseda Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Northridge Village RECENTLY SOLD Canby Avenue | 4 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1717 sq. ft. | $535,000 Canby Avenue | 4 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1717 sq. ft. | $599,000 Canby Avenue | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1573 sq. ft. | $600,000 Sherman Court RECENTLY SOLD Sherman Way | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 862 sq. ft. | $435,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Burbank Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Bethany Woods North RECENTLY SOLD Bethany Road | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1221 sq. ft. | $640,000 Bethany Woods South RECENTLY SOLD Bethany Road | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1455 sq. ft. | $519,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Marina del Rey Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Azzurra RECENTLY SOLD Marina Pointe Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1447 sq. ft. | $1,395,000 Essex House RECENTLY SOLD Ocean Front Walk | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 2315 sq. ft. | $3,688,800 Marina City Club NEWLY LISTED Marina City Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | None sq. ft. | $599,000 Marina City Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1422 sq. ft. | $599,000 RECENTLY SOLD Marina City Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 935 sq. ft. | $409,000 Marina City Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 935 sq. ft. | $442,000 Villa San Cipriano RECENTLY SOLD La Villa Marina | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1582 sq. ft. | $1,299,000 Villa Sestri RECENTLY SOLD La Villa Marina | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1456 sq. ft. | $880,000 Villa Toulon RECENTLY SOLD La...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Woodland Hills Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Dove Creek BACK ON THE MARKET Shoup Avenue | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1764 sq. ft. | $679,950 The Met NEWLY LISTED Canoga Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 610 sq. ft. | $400,000 BACK ON THE MARKET Owensmouth Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 610 sq. ft. | $439,000 Owensmouth Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 600 sq. ft. | $415,000 Warner Club Villas NEWLY LISTED Burbank Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1870 sq. ft. | $899,000 RECENTLY SOLD Burbank Boulevard | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1950 sq. ft. | $855,000 Warner West RECENTLY SOLD Burbank Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 883 sq. ft. | $449,900 Warner Woodlands Two NEWLY LISTED Burbank Boulevard | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1629 sq. ft. | $699,999
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Ready to house hunt? The real estate jungle has changed, and it’s crucial to have a pro on your side. Here’s what you need to know about navigating the new rules!House Hunting? Here’s Why You Need a Buyer’s Agent Now More Than EverBuying a home can be overwhelming, especially with recent changes to real estate commissions and agreements. But don’t worry—with the right buyer’s agent, the process can be smoother and less stressful. Here’s what’s new and why you should have an experienced agent by your side: Benefits of a Buyer’s Agent: A buyer’s agent works exclusively for you, helping you find the right home, negotiating offers, and connecting you with trusted professionals like inspectors and lenders. They’re your advocate, ensuring your interests are protected throughout the process. C...
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By Wendi-Mae Davis, CREN, CRS, GRI, SRES, Broker Associate, Counselor
(Future Homes & Real Estate)
Heading to Apple Hill? FOR SOME CIDER, Wine or Beer tasting? OR LOOKING FOR THE BEST CHOCOLATE THIS SIDE OF THE MISSISSIPPI? ALL CLOSE BY!We are right on the way!!! ALSO Just around the bend from South Lake TahoE !!https://www.tourfactory.com/3161691Stop on by!  Now taking Appointments for your very own private tour!Newly refurbished front porch leads you in to this Quaint & Charming Chateau!3 Bedrooms 2 Full baths w/loft area-could be Office/Den or possible 4TH Bedroom2064 Square Feet of Living space, on just over a Half AcreUpdated Kitchen with convenient dining bar and eat-in area.Just off the kitchen is a cool enclosed patio-Perfect for those hot summer nights-Also w/access to rear yard.Newly painted Dining AreaLiving Room features a River Rock-Hearth/surround-And a very cozy Wood b...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Encino Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 5135 Zelzah Ave RECENTLY SOLD Zelzah Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1170 sq. ft. | $599,000 Zelzah Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1120 sq. ft. | $515,000 5339 Newcastle Ave BACK ON THE MARKET Newcastle Avenue | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1916 sq. ft. | $749,999 Encino Oaks NEWLY LISTED White Oak Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 712 sq. ft. | $255,000 White Oak Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 683 sq. ft. | $200,000 RECENTLY SOLD White Oak Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 683 sq. ft. | $255,000 Encino Park West RECENTLY SOLD Genesta Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 2018 sq. ft. | $817,000 Encino Villas BACK ON THE MARKET Lindley Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1205 sq. ft. | $589,000 Newcastle Manor RECENTLY SOLD Newcastle Avenue...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Sylmar Weekly Market Update August 26th - September 1st, 2024 Foothill Village RECENTLY SOLD Foothill Boulevard | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1602 sq. ft. | $675,000 Northpointe RECENTLY SOLD Foothill | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1442 sq. ft. | $380,000 Olive Mountain View RECENTLY SOLD Hubbard Street | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1156 sq. ft. | $450,000
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By Bob Elliot, 30+ Yrs Industry Experience
(eXp Realty)
When buying or selling a home, a crucial step in the process is the home appraisal. It helps determine the property's fair market value, which can significantly influence financing and negotiation outcomes. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned seller, understanding the appraisal process is key. Here are seven commonly asked questions about home appraisals to guide you through. What is a Home Appraisal? A home appraisal is an unbiased estimate of a property's value conducted by a licensed appraiser. Lenders require an appraisal to ensure the home is worth the loan amount being requested. The appraiser assesses factors like the home's condition, location, and comparable sales in the area to determine its value. Who Pays for the Appraisal? Typically, the buyer is responsible...
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