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 Tracy Lee Parker, Buy*Sell*Rent
(RE/MAX DFW Associates)
Open House 3810 Bellaire Drive Garland, TX  OPEN HOUSE APRIL 1ST from 2-4pm  &  APRIL 2ND from 1-3pm! Best location in North Garland! Owners took pride & care in this 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage home! They remodeled the home to be an open floorplan, allowing for a great flow when entertaining family & friends! Many UPDATES reflect today's modern feel with engineered hardwoods, granite countertops, sleek cabinet hardware, stainless steel appliances, undermount sink, hook faucets, 2in faux blinds, newer toliets, udated ceiling fans, a barn door, coffered wood ceiling, gray interior paints & updated lighting throuhout! Gorgeous white brick gas log fp with a raised hearth, modern fp screen & custom mantle. Every bedroom has a walkin closet too! The covered back porch makes a beautiful o...
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By Tracy Lee Parker, Buy*Sell*Rent
(RE/MAX DFW Associates)
Half Acre! 525 Brooks Drive Nevada, TX is Coming Soon on Market! Room to build your SHOP on this .5 acre lot! Beautiful custom home featuring a stone elevation & landscaped flowerbeds. There are 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, living area, formal DR & study. Open living concept with a breakfast nook, granite ctops, custom cabinetry & knotty alder front door, stainless steel appls & undermount sink. The split primary room has garden tub, lrg separate shower, dual sinks, granite ctops & lrg walk in closet. Two other bedrooms share a full bath with granite ctops. The FP has beautiful stone, raised hearth & custom mantle. Super sized separate laundry room has room for a second frig! The street is on a cul de sac so no annoying traffic & great views across the street! Enjoy two covered patios ...
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By Angela Lawrence, Broker/Owner
(Noble Merit, REALTORS®)
Equestrian Properties in Forsyth, Davie, Davidson, Randolph, Guilford and surrounding NC Piedmont Triad counties.Horses allowed!  View current horse ranches, farms and properties that are great for horses.   Browse Equestrian Properties in Counties and Communities below...  Forsyth County EquestrianProperties for Sale Davie County EquestrianProperties for Sale Davidson County EquestrianProperties for Sale Guilford County EquestrianProperties for Sale Yadkin County EquestrianProperties for Sale Surry County EquestrianProperties for Sale Stokes County EquestrianProperties for Sale Randolph County EquestrianProperties for Sale Alamance County EquestrianProperties for Sale Rockingham County EquestrianProperties for Sale Winston Salem EquestrianProperties for Sale Clemmons EquestrianProperti...
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By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
🈚▐►NO BANK FSBO RENT to OWN 3 HOMES 3bd Berkeley County Summerville 🈚▐►NO BANK FSBO Rent to Own 3 HOUSES 3bd 2ba Summerville-CharlestonAVAILABLE  TODAY in SUMMERVILLE on our WebSite Below !!3 bd - 2 ba DWMH +2 Car Garage + .5 Acre Land + Sheds zip 294833 bd - 2 ba BRICK HOUSE PLUS LAND - Yard!3 bd - 2 ba BRICK HOUSE+ LAND + Garage +Yard + Shed★ Plus See MORE!! 🈚▐►FSBO NO BANK ★ Lease Option Houses ★ 3bd Summerville-CharlestonBUY - SELL - RENT to OWN - INVESTWe Are the Licensed Mt Pleasant SC Real Estate Investment CompanyServing the Charleston South Carolina Community Since 2002We Buy and Sell LOCAL Houses - Mobile Homes - LandFSBO-NO MLS FEE-NO BROKER FEE-RENT to OWN ★ ★ BUYSEE On Our WEBSITEWholeSale Buyer Values @  ★ ★ 🈚▐►SCInvestmentProperties.com   ★ ★ 🈚▐►NO BANK FSBO RENT to OWN 3...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2553 Orange Ave E, Tallahassee, FL Click Here to Get Directions $3750003bed - 2bath - 8276.4 sqft lot Photos | Maps & Local | Schools | Print Meticulously maintained Aspen Model home in highly sought out Southwood that is a must see! This 3 bed 2 bath home features granite counter tops, hardwood floors, custom cabinets, step-up rope lighting, and much more. The primary suite features a vaulted, tray ceiling and the oversized walk-in closet, which boasts custom closet organizers, is an absolute dream! Other features include a fully fenced-in backyard, 2 car rear entry garage, and open floorplan! Built in 2018, this home feels "like new," as pride in ownership shines through!Follow This Home Joe Manausa Joe Manausa Real Estate 850-888-0888 Licensed In: Florida Contact MeUseful Links Free ...
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By Jon Boyd, Ann Arbor Real Estate Buyers Agent
(Home Buyer's Agent of Ann Arbor)
The 2023 loan-level pricing adjustments will make the next couple of months a lot more stressful for those of us on the buying side of the transaction.And difficulties with underwriting approvals will likely impact a lot of sellers too.Here is a video where I talk about the background and some of the highlights. Call our office if you would like to talk about home buying in the Washtenaw, Western Wayne, Western Oakland, and Livingston County areas of Michigan.
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By THE ROSELLI TEAM Monica Roselli, 19+ Years of Experience
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
13933 SW 50th St, Miramar, FL Click Here to Get Directions $7390005bed - 3bath - 6724 sqft lot Photos | Maps & Local | Schools | Print This waterfront home with a pool is absolutely stunning and very spacious! Bright & open floor plan with large social areas. An expansive gourmet kitchen with Quartzite counter tops and top-of-the line stainless steel appliances. The primary bedroom is spacious and offers a large walk-in closet. Fully remodeled bathrooms, new porcelain flooring, fresh interior & exterior paint, A/C replaced 2 years ago, vaulted ceilings, new iron railing on the stairs, surround sound, crown moldings, elegant chandelier and light fixtures, smart light control, second floor accordion shutters. Gorgeous backyard boasts a sparkling pool, an amazing lake view, lush landscapin...
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By The Berns Team, It's always Better With Berns!
(The Berns Team)
Welcome to this luxurious  2-story Colonial nestled in the highly coveted Linda Vista neighborhood! Situated on a peaceful tree-lined street, this picturesque home boasts a great curb appeal with its charming covered porch and elegant bay window. Past the front door, you are greeted by a magnificent layout that showcases the staircase, luxurious living room, and elegant dining room. The living room is light and bright and is adorned with recessed lighting, crown and base molding, and an elegant fireplace that serves as the perfect focal point for hosting and entertaining guests. The hardwood floors seamlessly flow through the living room, dining room, and den. The elegant dining room exudes elegance, featuring a tray ceiling and a modern light fixture. Further down the hall sits the ful...
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By The Berns Team, It's always Better With Berns!
(The Berns Team)
Welcome to this turnkey Tujunga pool home that features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a stunning open floor plan. The home has a great modern curb appeal with the brick pavers, the well-maintained lawn, and the newer windows. Past the front door, one is struck by the bright and spacious living areas, which include a living room, dining area, and kitchen that is perfect for entertaining guests. The new waterproof laminate flooring and recessed lighting add to the home's aesthetic appeal. The living room is especially inviting, featuring a stunning fireplace that is perfect for gatherings and a sliding glass door that seamlessly connects the indoor and outdoor living spaces. The living room conveniently features a bathroom and a laundry closet. The kitchen is highlighted by an eat-in islan...
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By Lisa Delzompo 951-704-4559, Experienced, Trusted, & On Your Mission: Home
(Sand to Sea Properties, Inc.)
Camp Pendleton HousesWhat options do you have for Camp Pendleton houses if you're military member or family? Frank walks you through base housing options and pros and cons, as well as options for living out in town in San Clemente, Oceanside and his stomping grounds, Murrieta and Temecula. He can help you buy anywhere in California, but the Temecula Valley is in his inner circle.Frank compares the higher cost areas to include those closer to the beach, with an option many military families choose: longer commute but great schools, neighborhoods, amenities, activities, restaurants for most tastes.RELOCATION GUIDE - to get emailed a copy of the Murrieta & Temecula Relocation Guide, click this link:  https://tinyurl.com/FrankReloReportFREE BUYER REPORT "8 Secrets to Save for Saving $1000's...
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By Endre Barath, Jr., Realtor - Los Angeles Home Sales 310.486.1002
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties)
3104 Hutton Dr Beverly Hills CA 90210 Sold! Represented the buyers. Sold in Multiple Offers. Fantastic Traditional meets Contemporary 5BR, 4.5BA meticulously maintained home. Two story sky lit entry, living room with soaring beamed ceiling, fireplace and hardwood floors, formal dining room, updated kitchen with breakfast area, is adjacent to the family room with bar that opens to a private entertainer's yard with newer pool and spa, stonework, bbq/bar area, and smart grass. A gym/bedroom and bath plus guest bath complete the main level. The spacious master suite with sitting area, balcony overlooking the yard, remodeled bath, and dual closets is upstairs as well as three additional bedrooms and two baths. Three car garage, use of four neighborhood tennis courts, a pickleball court, and ...
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By Charles Ross - (785)-819-6944, Love To Help People
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
Harvard: 5 Financial Reasons to Buy a HomeEric Belsky is Managing Director of the Joint Center of Housing Studies at Harvard University. He also currently serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Housing Research and Housing Policy Debate. This year he released a new paper on homeownership - The Dream Lives On: the Future of Homeownership in America. In his paper, Belsky reveals five financial reasons people should consider buying a home. Here are the five reasons, each followed by an excerpt from the study: 1.) Housing is typically the one leveraged investment available. “Few households are interested in borrowing money to buy stocks and bonds and few lenders are willing to lend them the money. As a result, homeownership allows households to amplify any appreciation on the value...
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By Bob McCranie, Your best advocate when buying or selling your hom
(Broker Associate / Team Lead - Texas Pride Realty Group)
A mother-in-law suite, as the name implies, is a private living area within a house that is intended to house elderly parents, in-laws, or other family members who wish to live with the family but still maintain their freedom. Here are some advantages you can anticipate from building a mother-in-law apartment if you are a homeowner who is thinking about doing so:1. Greater Independence and PrivacyOne of the main advantages of having a mother-in-law suite is that it gives your loved ones a distinct place to live in, increasing their privacy and independence. They can come and go as they please without disturbing the other members of the family, and they can have their own bedroom, bathroom, and living space.2. Improved Family TiesAdditionally, having a mother-in-law room can improve ties...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Realtor
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
 DON'T GET FOOLED ON APRIL FOOL'S DAY! OWNING REAL ESTATE IS A GREAT INVESTMENT! Today is April Fool's Day... a day when pranksters and jokers pop out of the woodwork! But don't get fooled today (or any other day for that matter) when it comes to real estate and owning a home. Owning real estate is a GREAT investment! Maybe it's even the GREATEST investment! Did you know that 90% of millionaires purchased real estate. Buying a home you live in is a first step in building your long-term wealth. Buying a home makes much more sense than renting. And don't get fooled into thinking that the market is crashing and that it's a bad time to buy or sell a home. Charlotte's market is still quite strong and there's no crash in sight!   WHY OWNING A HOME IS A GREAT INVESTMENT: INFOGRAPHIC   American...
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By Elaine VonCannon
(Coldwell Banker Traditions)
Moving On Up: Buying a Luxury HomeBuying a luxury home is equal parts exciting as it is nerve-wracking. When buying a luxury home you're investing a lot of money and/or committing to a substantial mortgage. With a large investment like this comes a lot of homework and ensuring you're buying the right property for you and your family. Oftentimes, the same mistakes first-time homebuyers make are the same ones people make when buying a luxury home. This is written to help give you the best tips when it comes to buying a luxury home.What Makes a House a Luxury Home?What constitutes a luxury home is going to vary depending on the location. Considered to be homes that are in the top 10% of properties listed on the local real estate market, luxury homes offer luxurious living conditions and an...
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By Jane & Jeff Daley, PhD, Scottsdale Real Estate Arizona
(Luxury Valley Homes Scottsdale)
Facts About Closing Costs [INFOGRAPHIC]Some Highlights If you’re thinking about buying a home, be sure to plan for closing costs. Closing costs are typically 2% to 5% of the total purchase price of a home, and they can include things like government recording costs, appraisal fees, and more. Let’s connect so I can answer your questions about the home buying process.
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2111 Scenic Rd, TALLAHASSEE, FL Get Directions Click Here Description Photos Real Estate Reports for Home Owners, Sellers & Buyers! Maps & Local Schools Print Reviews $ Click for current price 4 BEDROOMS | 2 Full Baths BATHROOMS | 1547 SqFt Classic Tallahassee home with the 1960's charm! Situated in a prime location near FSU and TCC campuses and easy proximity to in town trendy shopping and dining options. All brick home featuring original hardwood floors, updated bathrooms, granite kitchen counters and a beautiful fenced in corner lot! Follow This Home Tallahassee Homes For Sale Tallahassee Home Search Free Home Values Manausa.com Schedule a Showing/Request Info Presented By: Joe Manausa Joe Manausa Real Estate850-888-0888Licensed In: Florida  
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By Katina Hargrove 352-551-0308, Broker/Owner, GRI,SFR, REALTOR®
(Stake Your Land Realty, Inc.)
1 acre for sale located at Equestrian Royal Trails Subdivision. The HOA is $70.5 per year, the community features a park, playground and enclosed pavilion for entertaining with many activities throughout the year. There is no time limit to build, bring your own builder; the minimum square footage is 1,200. Do not hesitate, come drive by and visit Royal Trails and make it your next Florida building site. Access to Lake Norris, once you build, you may park your RV and boat, the zoning allows 2 horses per acre. A survey is recommended for accurate dimensions, the tax records show 150x314. Per Deed restrictions, no mobile, or manufacture homes allowed.Thinking of buying or selling, give me a call at 352-551-0308 or email me at katina@stakeyourland.com Feel free to visit my website and searc...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
  3451 Lakeshore Drive, Tallahassee, FL   Get Directions Click Here            Description Photos Maps & Local Schools Virtual Tour Walk Score       $ Click for current price 4 BEDROOMS 3 BATHROOMS (3 full) 2617 Square Feet       This timeless custom-built one story brick home with extensive landscaping sits on nearly an acre and is conveniently located on Lakeshore Drive. Enjoy the private park-like fenced backyard year round from the oversized screened-in porch, and sip coffee and enjoy the sounds of birds from your Southern front porch. The functional 4 bedroom split floor plan includes a large master bedroom with a HUGE closet, an ensuite guest bedroom, a nursery with hand painted mural, and a flex room that could be used as an office, sitting room, or playroom. The generous kitche...
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By Jon Boyd, Ann Arbor Real Estate Buyers Agent
(Home Buyer's Agent of Ann Arbor)
I number of years ago we were helping a couple relocate from Virginia to the Plymouth/Northville/Novi area here in Michigan.They ended up purchasing a nice home in Novi, however one thing they were very sensitive about was a front hall closet.I grew up in a home built in the 1960s with a front hall closet and I guess I took front hall closets for granted.This couple currently owned a 3,000 square foot two-story brick home in the middle of a pine forest. That sounded like a great home till they told me it didn't have a front hall closet. That meant that every time they had guests in the fall, winter, or spring they would need to take their guests coats at the front door and walk into their primary bedroom and throw them on the bed. Just like they had to do when they were impoverished col...
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