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The Business of Real Estate

This category contains 103 posts

Credit scores — important information

Since your FICO score affects so much of your life these days, it is important to understand how to raise it or to keep it high. Continue reading

Foreclosure myths …

If it’s your time to buy or sell, don’t wait for some imaginary sea-change in the Central Texas real estate market. The outlook for home values and mortgage interest rates us UP, and we are not facing a flood of low-priced properties in the coming months. Make your move because it’s right for you, not because of external factors you read or hear about. Continue reading

Foreclosure caution? Of course. Halt? Please don’t!

Last week I heard a prominent Senate leader suggest that there should be an across-the-board moratorium on all foreclosures. My response: STOP before you help us any more!!!!! Continue reading

Let the market heal, and it will

“Leave housing to market forces, let prices fall until buyers are motivated to come in, and hope that the economy can stand one final cathartic wave to clear the excesses of the bubble.” Continue reading

Myths about credit scores

I wrote a few months ago about the importance of credit scores, and what they mean. Today, Yahoo! Finance added some good information about several common misconceptions. Continue reading

“Vulture investors” back?

The national press continues to highlight “opportunities” in real estate markets that have been hit hardest by the recession. I continue to get calls from prospective investors who expect the same market conditions in Austin and Central Texas. The good news is that Austin is different. The bad news is that Austin is different. It’s all a matter of perspective. Continue reading

Home Improvement — Get Your Money’s Worth?

Remodeling and home improvement are perennial topics of discussion, but if you’re preparing your home for resale think ahead, and be aware of how much your investment is likely to return. Continue reading

Mortgage lending — a continuing adventure

Again, thank goodness that mortgage lenders have decided they prefer working with borrowers who are likely to make their payments. This pendulum is swinging WAY too far in the other direction, though. Continue reading

Mortgage insurance rates going up

A bill authorizing much higher mortgage insurance rates for FHA loans has passed the House overwhelmingly. An increase in the monthly mortgage insurance premium will reduce the loan amount, and therefore the purchase price, a prospective buyer can qualify for.
Continue reading

Get it in writing

It’s embarassing to think that a licensed real estate allowed this confusion with a client. When you hire a Realtor® to help you buy or sell your most important financial asset, invest the time to understand the experience and professionalism you’re getting. Continue reading

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