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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 Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Are you looking for the BEST VALUE for a private pool home in the McCormick and Gainey Ranch area. Well here it is! See listing with pictures with "arrow" showing the loft, rest of home is on the main floor: 8020 N 72nd Place, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258 Beautiful pool home nestled between McCormick Ranch, Gainey Ranch & Paradise Valley, one of most desired places to live in Scottsdale near resort hotels, restaurants, golf, shopping & more. This 2/2 pool home has 2,581sf with 2,295sf on first level + 286sf bonus loft with separate AC & skylights. Soaring ceilings, spacious rooms & lots of natural light! Front private courtyard. All rooms are on main floor except for loft to be used as optional third bedroom with armoire or an office, exercise or craft room (you choose). Home is adjacent t...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Blue skies, sunny days in Arizona. It is time take a look and own Pool homes for sale in Scottsdale UPDATED DAILY on the MLS.  Don't wait, buy one now! (Photo: 8020 N 72nd Place, Scottsdale Arizona by Jeffrey Masich)Pool Home in Santo Tomas for $699,000 with land lease next to McCormick Ranch. See listing with pictures and details: 8020 N 72nd Place, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258Just as an example, this photo is of Scottsdale pool homes (with private front courtyards) in Santo Tomas nestled in a prime location between McCormick Ranch and Gainey Ranch with Paradise Valley to the west, surrounded by golf courses, biking trails and resort hotels. However, Scottsdale has plenty more...read on.No need for mosquito nets over the pool like Florida. Why? It is a DRY heat. You have come to the right...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
This is something that Steve wrote about and so true. “Renting is like throwing money into the wind—buying is planting a tree that grows money.” “Why pay someone else’s mortgage when you could pay your future?” “You can rent your life away, or you can buy a piece of freedom.” “Renting is a treadmill—running fast but getting nowhere. Buying is walking toward wealth.” “Rent payments build someone else’s equity—mortgage payments build your legacy.” “The rent trap: you’re paying for someone else’s vacation home while you sleep in a rental.” “Buying gives you control, renting makes you pay for someone else's.” “Don’t rent your life. Buy it. Own it.” “You rent a lifestyle, but you buy a future.” “The only thing worse than paying rent is knowing it’ll never come back.” Judy Wahba - Broker/Owne...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Pacific Beach Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Pacific Tower NEWLY LISTED Cass Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 793 sq. ft. | $789,000 See the Sea RECENTLY SOLD Ocean Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1157 sq. ft. | $1,650,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Hillcrest Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Centre Court Condominiums RECENTLY SOLD Centre Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1045 sq. ft. | $799,000 Chateau Centre RECENTLY SOLD Centre Street | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 786 sq. ft. | $650,000 Essex Place NEWLY LISTED Essex Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 608 sq. ft. | $550,000
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
How do you Choose a Neighborhood That will be Right for You?  Choosing the right neighborhood is a critical decision, as it directly impacts your lifestyle, future property value, and daily comfort. Here are key factors to consider when selecting the perfect neighborhood: 1. Budget and Home Prices Research Property Values: Understand the price range of homes in the area and assess whether it aligns with your budget. Also, investigate if the neighborhood's values have been appreciating. Property Taxes: Check the property tax rates, as they can vary significantly by neighborhood and affect your monthly expenses. 2. Location and Proximity Commute: Consider the distance to your workplace or places you frequently visit. Shorter commutes can improve your quality of life. Amenities: Look for p...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
How Hybrid Work is Shaping Housing DemandThe rise of hybrid and remote work is dramatically reshaping the housing market. With fewer people tied to offices in big cities, many are opting to live in more affordable or scenic areas. Homes with dedicated office spaces, larger square footage, and proximity to outdoor activities are becoming more desirable.Why It Matters: Buyers are prioritizing space and lifestyle over proximity to offices. Markets that were previously overlooked, like smaller towns, are seeing increased demand. What You Can Do: If you work remotely, now is the time to rethink where you want to live. I can help you find a home that supports your lifestyle and work-life balance.“Working from home? Why not live where you’ve always wanted?”“Let’s find a home that suits your ne...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
La Mesa Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Fox Haven RECENTLY SOLD Saranac Place | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1184 sq. ft. | $599,000 Rosehedge Manor NEWLY LISTED Rosehedge Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1330 sq. ft. | $600,000 Westwood Village BACK ON THE MARKET Maple Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 673 sq. ft. | $399,999
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Escondido Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Adobe Hills RECENTLY SOLD Cranston Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1026 sq. ft. | $518,000 Camden Cove NEWLY LISTED Tanglewood Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1039 sq. ft. | $525,000 Sun Mountain Springs RECENTLY SOLD Sandalwood Place | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 899 sq. ft. | $399,000 Villa Espanas NEWLY LISTED Espanas Gln | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1040 sq. ft. | $535,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Chula Vista Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Belleza RECENTLY SOLD Tiburon Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1244 sq. ft. | $625,000 Camelot RECENTLY SOLD Brookstone Road | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1166 sq. ft. | $604,000 Casa de Moss RECENTLY SOLD Moss Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 900 sq. ft. | $434,999 Mer Soleil NEWLY LISTED Nicolette Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 975 sq. ft. | $565,000 Monet RECENTLY SOLD Trouville Lane | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1372 sq. ft. | $640,000 Mosaic NEWLY LISTED Crimson Court | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1479 sq. ft. | $639,000 Parkwoods RECENTLY SOLD Center Street | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1618 sq. ft. | $576,000 Tivoli Villas NEWLY LISTED Callecita Aquilla Sur | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1450 sq. ft. | $799,000 Villa Hermosa NEWL...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Oceanside Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Montego Condominiums RECENTLY SOLD Sportfisher Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1647 sq. ft. | $1,349,900 North River Village RECENTLY SOLD Tranquil Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1132 sq. ft. | $589,900 Oceana Mission RECENTLY SOLD Dowitcher Way | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1056 sq. ft. | $475,000 The Bluffs RECENTLY SOLD Sea Cliff Way | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1030 sq. ft. | $554,998 Oceana NEWLY LISTED N Vista Campana | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1106 sq. ft. | $499,000 Vista Campana S | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 994 sq. ft. | $459,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
University City Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Avanti RECENTLY SOLD Calabria Court | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1720 sq. ft. | $1,325,000 Garden Village NEWLY LISTED Via Lapiz | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1053 sq. ft. | $799,000 Lucera RECENTLY SOLD Shoreline Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 848 sq. ft. | $525,000 Regency Villas RECENTLY SOLD Genesee Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 578 sq. ft. | $385,000 Verano RECENTLY SOLD Charmant Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 796 sq. ft. | $549,900 Charmant Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 704 sq. ft. | $560,000 Villa Vicenza RECENTLY SOLD Caminito Plaza Centro | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 535 sq. ft. | $525,000 Vista La Jolla RECENTLY SOLD Via Brillante | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1512 sq. ft. | $1,099,999
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On October 4, 2024, Julie Taylor published a very good interesting report on Realtor.com about signs for real estate agents knows the neighborhood.1. Your agent calls out things, big and small, that they love about the neighborhood to give you a well-rounded view of why it really is the best place to call home.2. Your real estate agent knows enough about local restaurants, bars, and hiking trails to give you an insider’s view of the neighborhood.3. How safe is the neighborhood? What are the crime rates? And is there a neighborhood watch?4. Commuting is a key factor in deciding which neighborhood to live in, so your agent should be able to tell you about important things to know—including proximity to freeways and highways, and public transit options.5. Your real estate agent should be o...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
San Juan Capistrano Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Capistrano Villas RECENTLY SOLD Calle San Francisco | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 897 sq. ft. | $465,000 Marbella Golf Villas RECENTLY SOLD Plaza Baja Del Sol | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1783 sq. ft. | $775,000
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
193 Nautilus Dr, Monticello, FL Click here to Get Directions$1,650,000 3 Beds - 6 Baths - 32.1 acres Lot Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Introducing a breathtaking fusion of modern convenience and medieval charm nestled in the heart of the woods. This meticulously renovated 9,848 square foot architectural marvel boasts a captivating design, featuring uniquely sized windows and curving walls that exude artistic allure at every turn. Step inside and experience the epitome of luxury living. The main building offers a seamless blend of functionality and elegance, with a spacious kitchen offering expansive views, a library capable of housing 10,000 books, currently fill with about 6000 books. The ensuite bedrooms provide unparalleled comfort and privacy. The master bedroom is situated on ...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Ladera Ranch Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Charleston Place RECENTLY SOLD Strawflower Street | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1617 sq. ft. | $940,000 Sansovino RECENTLY SOLD Sansovino | 1 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1057 sq. ft. | $599,900 Sansovino | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1228 sq. ft. | $729,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Fountain Valley Weekly Market Update September 30th - October 6th, 2024 Fountain Park RECENTLY SOLD Pebble Court | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1161 sq. ft. | $700,000 Harbor Valley BACK ON THE MARKET Saddle Court | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1269 sq. ft. | $734,900
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By KAREN SANCHEZ, ...Marketing your home like no one else will.
( Reputable Realty)
Charming 2-Bedroom + Den in Desirable 55+ Community Nestled in a prime location close to the freeway, restaurants, and conveniences, this 1150 sq ft mobile home offers a blend of comfort and accessibility in an over 55 mobile park. Situated on a peaceful cul-de-sac, this home features 2 spacious bedrooms, a versatile den, and a welcoming living area. The home also includes two convenient storage sheds and a covered carport for added protection and space. Enjoy the vibrant community amenities, including a sparkling pool, clubhouse with a pool table, ping pong, and much more to keep you active and entertained. Whether you’re looking to relax or socialize, this community has it all. Don’t miss this opportunity for convenient, low-maintenance living! Charming 2-Bedroom + Den in Desirable 5...
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By David Buck, Realtor-Broker
(Harcourts Island Real Estate)
So often in my business (in real estate) you get asked "is it necessary to do a termite inspection on a high rise condo?" There's 2 stories I'm going to share with you today... Read More
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