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 Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
5409 Defoors Ferry Road, Tallahassee, Fl Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Click Here to Get Directions $4750003bed - 2bath - 0.33 acres lotQuiet cul-de-sac home in desirable Lenox Mill! Find yourself charmed by this spacious and peaceful home, set back from the bustle but convenient to everything, including the highly rated school district. Featuring two generous secondary bedrooms, a full hall bath, and a spacious master suite with walk-in closet and double vanities, shower and a soaking tub. The breakfast nook in the kitchen provides plenty of meal space, and the large family room with abundant natural light thanks to numerous windows and vaulted ceilings will no doubt become a favorite gathering spot. The separate family room is perfect for an office or playroom, enhancing the funct...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
598 Henrietta, QUINCY, FL Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Click Here to Get Directions $315,0003bed - 2bath - 17.6 sqft lotA country oasis on over 17 private beautiful acres complete with mature pecan and pear trees and a blueberry patch! This homestead property is naturally landscaped with mature azaleas, crepe myrtle, live oak and pine trees. Property includes an all brick manufactured home with metal roof on concrete footings. Home has been updated with new flooring throughout, fresh paint and many new light and fan fixtures. The huge screened in porch overlooking the property will be your Florida summer evening retreat! Property also includes an older detached home that has recently been used for storage only and needs some work. The second home could be updated to be a wonderful ...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Malibu Weekly Market Update March 13th - 19th, 2023 Malibu Outrigger RECENTLY SOLD Pacific Coast Highway | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1200 sq. ft. | $3,295,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Culver City Weekly Market Update March 13th - 19th, 2023 Green Valley Condominiums RECENTLY SOLD Green Valley Circle | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1087 sq. ft. | $629,900 Los Cerros RECENTLY SOLD Canterbury Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 972 sq. ft. | $589,000 Raintree Condominiums RECENTLY SOLD Raintree Circle | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1116 sq. ft. | $699,000 The Pines RECENTLY SOLD Canterbury Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1028 sq. ft. | $680,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Winnetka Weekly Market Update March 13th - 19th, 2023 Kelvin Court RECENTLY SOLD Kelvin Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1386 sq. ft. | $379,900 Park Avenue RECENTLY SOLD Cozycroft Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1032 sq. ft. | $329,950 Terramar RECENTLY SOLD Keswick Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 880 sq. ft. | $299,000 Valley West Townhomes RECENTLY SOLD Mason Avenue | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1389 sq. ft. | $385,000
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Are you having trouble finding a home that fits your needs and your budget? If so, you should know there’s an option worth considering – condominiums, also known as condos. According to Bankrate:“A condo can be a more affordable entry point to homeownership than a single-family home. And as a homeowner, you’ll build equity over time and have access to tax benefits that a renter wouldn’t.”That’s why expanding your search to include additional housing types, like condominiums, could help you accomplish your homeownership goals this spring, especially if you can be flexible about the space you need. Condos are typically smaller than a single-family home, but that’s part of what can make them more budget-friendly(see graph below): In addition to providing more options in your home search an...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Hollywood Weekly Market Update March 13th - 19th, 2023 Carlton Plaza RECENTLY SOLD Carlton Way | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1070 sq. ft. | $848,000 Franklin Towers RECENTLY SOLD Franklin Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1047 sq. ft. | $695,000 The Broadway Hollywood RECENTLY SOLD Vine Street | 0 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2510 sq. ft. | $1,300,000 The Hollywood RECENTLY SOLD Yucca Street | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1160 sq. ft. | $610,000 W Hollywood Residences RECENTLY SOLD Hollywood | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1720 sq. ft. | $989,000 Hollywood Boulevard | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 990 sq. ft. | $675,000
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By Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC
(Keller Williams Capital Properties)
This is a heart warming review from my clients who bought a home last week with me before they headed back overseas to finish their tour for the State Department.   This couple found me through a referral from another client who also lived overseas when they bought their townhome.  (The earlier couple actually found me through my blogs on Active Rain.)  After some Facetime calls and research, this couple told me what they wanted in the way of a home. I gave them suggestions.  They narrowed the list and I went to visit the homes, Facetiming with them during my tours.   The house they fell in love with on line turned out to be a good match for them - and it has an awesome back yard for their children.     Lise and her team made our recent home purchase a wonderful process! We live overse...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Downtown Los Angeles Weekly Market Update March 13th - 19th, 2023 1100 Wilshire RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1340 sq. ft. | $890,000 Wilshire | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 670 sq. ft. | $497,000 Wilshire Boulevard | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 670 sq. ft. | $449,000 Metropolis RECENTLY SOLD Francisco Street | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 503 sq. ft. | $485,000 Francisco Street | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 529 sq. ft. | $670,000
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By Marcus Anderson, Mortgage Broker & Agent | Westside Los Angeles, CA
(MortgageBrokerSantaMonica.com)
Sawtelle Homes For SaleSearch the newest Sawtelle Homes For Sale & real estate listings. If you would like more information on any of these Sawtelle real estate listings, just click on a property to access the full details. From there, you can request more information or schedule a tour. And we'd be happy to provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of properties which have recently sold nearby, and more, so just let us know how we can help!And, for your convenience, feel free to register for a free account to receive email alerts whenever new Sawtelle listings come on the market that match your specific criteria.To view Sawtelle Homes For SaleUseful Links: Beverly Hills Houses for Sale / Beverly Hills Homes for Sale / Houses for Sale in Santa Monica / Santa Mon...
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By Marcus Anderson, Mortgage Broker & Agent | Westside Los Angeles, CA
(MortgageBrokerSantaMonica.com)
Homes For Sale SawtelleSearch the newest Homes For Sale Sawtelle & real estate listings. If you would like more information on any of these Sawtelle real estate listings, just click on a property to access the full details. From there, you can request more information or schedule a tour. And we'd be happy to provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of properties which have recently sold nearby, and more, so just let us know how we can help!And, for your convenience, feel free to register for a free account to receive email alerts whenever new Sawtelle listings come on the market that match your specific criteria.To view Homes For Sale SawtelleUseful Links: Beverly Hills Houses for Sale / Beverly Hills Homes for Sale / Houses for Sale in Santa Monica / Santa Mon...
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By Marcus Anderson, Mortgage Broker & Agent | Westside Los Angeles, CA
(MortgageBrokerSantaMonica.com)
Homes For Sale In SawtelleSearch the newest Homes For Sale In Sawtelle & real estate listings. If you would like more information on any of these Sawtelle real estate listings, just click on a property to access the full details. From there, you can request more information or schedule a tour. And we'd be happy to provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of properties which have recently sold nearby, and more, so just let us know how we can help!And, for your convenience, feel free to register for a free account to receive email alerts whenever new Sawtelle listings come on the market that match your specific criteria.To view Homes For Sale In SawtelleUseful Links: Beverly Hills Houses for Sale / Beverly Hills Homes for Sale / Houses for Sale in Santa Monica / ...
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By Marcus Anderson, Mortgage Broker & Agent | Westside Los Angeles, CA
(MortgageBrokerSantaMonica.com)
Homes For Sale Sawtelle Los AngelesSearch the newest Homes For Sale Sawtelle Los Angeles & real estate listings. If you would like more information on any of these Sawtelle Los Angeles real estate listings, just click on a property to access the full details. From there, you can request more information or schedule a tour. And we'd be happy to provide you with disclosures, past sales history, dates and prices of properties which have recently sold nearby, and more, so just let us know how we can help!And, for your convenience, feel free to register for a free account to receive email alerts whenever new Sawtelle Los Angeles listings come on the market that match your specific criteria.To view Homes For Sale Sawtelle Los AngelesUseful Links: Beverly Hills Houses for Sale / Beverly Hills ...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
Come on out to Luker Ranch in Granbury, Texas to tour a few newly constructed, Stella Rose Homes!  You will love the area of Luker Ranch which sits on the south side of Lake Granbury on land that has gently rolling terrain that offers outstanding views of the lake. Those of us from the area like to call this the "quiet side of the lake".Welcome to 8015 Brownie Luker Blvd.  This home sits at the top of a one-acre lot providing an outstanding view of Lake Granbury. This 4-bedroom home has everything you need! Open living areas, tons of natural light, beautiful finishes, and a floor plan that makes living easy. With a 3-car, oversized garage, you will enjoy having plenty of room for that jet ski that you've always wanted! And, right as you come in through the garage, a mudroom is positione...
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By Fernando Herboso - Associate Broker MD, & VA, 301-246-0001 Serving Maryland, DC and Northern VA
(Maxus Realty Group of Samson Properties )
If you're in search of a great place to live, look no further than Prince George's County, Maryland. Located just a short distance from Washington D.C., this delightful county boasts a multitude of attractions and amenities that are sure to make it your next home. Read on to discover the seven reasons why Prince George's County Maryland is the ideal place to call home - with its perplexity and burstiness, you won't find a better guide!​1. A Rich History with a Multitude of PossibilitiesWith a history that dates back to the 1600s, Prince George's County is a treasure trove of historical sites, museums, and landmarks. Whether you're interested in colonial history or the legacy of the Civil War, there's plenty to explore. The National Colonial Farm, the Marietta House Museum, and the Belai...
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By Dr. Paula McDonald, Granbury, TX 936-203-0279
(Beam & Branch Realty)
In the beautiful new subdivision of Luker Ranch, two gorgeous new builds are underway. The first home is located at 8011 Brownie Luker Blvd. This 4 bedroom, 3 bath home is at the phase of sheetrock. Therefore, clients can still choose some of the interior finishes!As you enter this home, the first thing you will most likely notice are the high ceilings, the amount of natural light, and the roomy open spaces. The kitchen will make any chef proud with the huge cooking range, farmhouse sink, loads of cabinets, and lots of preparation areas. When you entertain, you know this is where everyone ends up so why not make it flow nicely into the living areas?Did I mention the finishes in these lovely Stella Rose Homes? You will find the finishing touches throughout these homes are on point with t...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
As a lender, I spend a lot of time helping First Time buyers qualify for a home of their own. This is why I think right now is the best time for first-timers to buy a house. When interest rates spike as they did last month and the market cools it is a blessing for those that are not in a position to compete with 15 offers and cash buyers. Everyone thinks they can outsmart the market and pride themselves on not buying when rates are up. But now that we have a dip in rates due to banking issues you can buy a home at a reasonable price when prices are not going up 10% a month like they were in 2021. You have a more attractive buyers' market and if you can get in and survive for a couple of years, it is likely you will be refinancing anyway. I think this market is a blessing for first-time...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Lenders
(Watermark Capital)
As a lender, I spend a lot of time helping First Time buyers qualify for a home of their own.This is why I think right now is the best time for first-timers to buy a house.When interest rates spike as they did last month and the market cools it is a blessing for those that are not in a position to compete with 15 offers and cash buyers. Everyone thinks they can outsmart the market and pride themselves on not buying when rates are up.But now that we have a dip in rates due to banking issues you can buy a home at a reasonable price when prices are not going up 10% a month like they were in 2021.You have a more attractive buyers' market and if you can get in and survive for a couple of years, it is likely you will be refinancing anyway.I think this market is a blessing for first-timers as ...
Comments 6
By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
When a buyer calls and wants to see a property, I like to look at the history, how long the home has been on the market, and even look at the assessor's value.   There are times the buyer called because the home just came back on the market.   Usually, the agent puts the reason in the broker's comments, and when there isn't an explanation, a phone call is necessary. The number one reason -- inspection items!   Once the Seller is aware of issues in a home, they must disclose. There could be other reasons -  ~ Buyer lost their job ~ Buyer did not qualify for the loan ~ Buyers' payment will be more than they expected ~ Buyer found another home that met their needs betterI have even seen where a buyer got relocated right after putting an offer in on a home. It is always wise to get the "sco...
Comments 14
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