Real estate investing can be an excellent way to build wealth. And with low-interest rates, the internet, and reality DIY shows, it’s become more popular than ever. But those things have also fast-tracked people into making some mistakes. When you’re getting started, there’s a lot to learn. It isn’t as easy as it looks on […]
real estate
How Do I Get My Real Estate Purchase Offer Accepted?
You found the perfect home, it fits your budget, and you’re ready to put in an offer the seller can’t refuse. But it’s not as simple as offering a fair price. Low-interest rates and high demand for homes in some areas create a seller’s market. And with more competition among buyers, it’s common for sellers […]
Why You Need a Home Inventory [+ how to create one]
Each year, one of every 20 households file insurance claims due to theft, fire, wind, and water damage. In 2019, losses from natural disasters topped $25 billion, and 2020 is shaping up to outpace that number. It’s not something anyone likes to think about, but it can and does happen. And after going through a […]
The Real Estate Trap: Don’t fall for bad advice
If you look around you, it might seem crazy not to be buying a house right now. In parts of the country, people are in bidding wars, homes fly off the market, and house prices are rapidly increasing. But real estate is not always a good investment. It’s important to consider all the angles before […]
Common Home Buying Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Is now the best time to buy a home? How much can you afford to spend on a house? Do you have enough for a down payment? Where do you want to live? If you’re thinking about buying a home, it makes sense to get it right from the beginning. A home is one of […]
How to Buy a Home: From viewings to closing
Whether you’re buying your first home or your third, it’s an exciting time. After all, it’s one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make, and it’s a place where you’ll make lasting memories. It’s also quite a process to get from home viewings to closing. Buying a home takes time, money, and a lot […]
Why and How You Diversify an Investment Portfolio
For decades, experts have warned Americans not to rely on Social Security as a viable way to support themselves during retirement. The Federal Government implemented Social Security in 1935 to provide Americans with some income to supplement their finances after retirement. But Social Security was never intended to be a total solution. The best option […]
Selling a Home to Someone You Know [Good Idea?]
You’ve decided to sell your home and a friend or family member has expressed an interest in buying it. Even though it seems like a much simpler way to sell your house – remember that easier isn’t always better. There are plenty of advantages to both parties when someone you know buys your home. But […]
Live In House Flipping: A Good RE Investing Strategy?
Live in house flipping is a real estate investing strategy that can certainly pay off – if you’re up for the challenge. It’s a slower approach than traditional house flipping. But live-in flips have some unique advantages that can make them profitable. With a live-in flip, you live in your investment – while you fix […]
Can You Make Money Investing in a Duplex and Renting Half Out?
Investing in real estate is a popular way for people to build wealth over time. Commercial real estate may interest more seasoned investors. But those who are just starting usually invest in single-family rentals or smaller multi-family properties. House ‘hacking’ has also grown in popularity for those who are new to real estate investing. Making […]
Real Estate Investment Clubs: Can I benefit from joining?
Pros and Cons of Real Estate Investment Clubs It seems like a lot of people you know or read about are trying to build wealth through real estate. Some buy houses to “flip” and others are buy-and-hold investors. There are investors only buying single-family rentals and others who seem to prefer purchasing multi-family homes. Commercial […]
Becoming a Landlord: What should I know first?
When you have financial goals, like college savings, retirement, or financial independence, becoming a landlord is an effective way to help you reach those goals. Becoming a landlord through real estate investing is often described as a relatively passive source of income. In other words, it’s a way to make money without a whole lot […]
What Assets Go Through Probate Upon Death?
What happens to your assets when you die? Unfortunately, there isn’t a cut and dry answer to that question. Some of your things will go through probate, while others won’t need to. It depends on the type of property you have and where you live. The process varies from state to state. What happens to […]
Buying a House: What do you need to consider and what are the best first steps?
From the down payment to financing to finding the right home – there are many things to consider when buying a home. It’s all much easier – and less stressful – when you understand the process and prepare. Though it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, buying a house is one of the […]
Is Buying Rental Property in a College Town a Good Idea?
Whether you currently invest in real estate or are new to the idea, buying rental property in a college town might have crossed your mind. Much of the standard real estate investing advice applies to properties in college cities. But there are some key differences to consider before you start buying rental properties near a […]
Holding a Mortgage: What Does it Mean and Can It Make You Money?
You’ve worked hard to pay off your home. But the time has come to sell. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or moving to a new state – you’re in the financial position to “act as the bank” for the new buyers. Holding a mortgage note, also known as seller-financing, owner-financing, or private mortgage, is an alternative […]
Is Real Estate Investing a Good Way to Build Wealth?
The answer to whether or not real estate investing is a good way to build wealth depends entirely on your definition of wealth. Your individual long and short-term goals, as well as your threshold for risk, are crucial factors in determining if investing in real estate is the right path for you. Let’s unpack that. […]
Starter House or Forever Home? Considerations when buying your first place
Buying a home is exciting. It’s also one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. So you want to get it right – and you want to get it right the first time. If you’re purchasing your first home, you may wonder if you should buy a “starter” home or a “forever” home. […]
Airbnb vs Long-Term Rental: will one make me more money?
Whether you already own a rental property or are looking to get into real estate investing as a way to grow your wealth, you may be asking yourself this question. Should I use the property as a long-term rental or try short-term rentals on a website like Airbnb? If you’ve heard the hype that you’ll […]
Why Women Need to Invest and Not Just Save
You hear about people not saving enough for retirement on the news. Oodles of articles report on women living longer than men and the struggle many women have with money in their later years. Family members, friends, and online communities mention the importance of women investing and they encourage you to get started. You know […]
Is Buying a Short Sale, Foreclosure or REO Home Too Risky?
Whether you’re looking for a bargain on your first home, hoping to score a great deal on a bigger house, looking for a house to flip, or investing in another rental property – your attention is focused on foreclosures. But is it a good idea or way too risky to buy a home in foreclosure? […]
What Happens When You Cannot Pay Your Mortgage?
Perhaps you lost your job after going through a divorce. Or you’re suffering from a severe illness or injury and unable to work. Whatever the cause, you’re now struggling to make ends meet and worry you can’t pay your mortgage. On top of it being a rough emotional time, your finances are a wreck. You […]
Can I Make Money as a Part-Time Real Estate Agent?
Whether you are looking for a new part-time job, considering a side hustle to supplement your 9-5, or thinking about investing in rental properties, you wonder if you can make good money as a part-time real estate agent. You’ve always been interested in real estate. Taking the preparation classes and getting your real estate license […]
When is the Right Time to Refinance My Mortgage?
Refinancing your home loan could save you a lot of money. But, depending on your situation, the cost to refinance could mean you end up spending more in the long run. So when should you refinance your house? That depends on several factors. The best thing you can do is run the numbers and do […]
Is It Better to Sell Home By Owner or Use Real Estate Agent?
If you’re thinking about selling your home, you want to get the best price possible. Eliminating realtors’ commissions puts more money in your pocket. But does it make sense to sell your house without a realtor? Will it save you money in the long run? And how much work will it be? There are benefits […]
