Thursday, June 3, 2021

Top 10 Myths That Trip Up First-Time Home Buyers


Top 10 Myths That Trip Up First-Time Home Buyers

If you’re thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably received your share of advice from family and friends. Add to that the constant stream of TV shows, news segments, and social media posts that over-simplify the home buying process for easy entertainment.

With so much information to sift through, it can be tough to distinguish fact from fiction. That’s why we’re revealing the truth behind some of the most common home buyer myths and misconceptions.

Buying a home is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a scary one. If you arm yourself with knowledge and a qualified team of support professionals, you’ll be well equipped to make the right choices for your family and financial future.

DON’T FALL FOR THESE COMMON HOME BUYER MYTH

Myth #1: You need a 20% down payment.

Plenty of buyers are purchasing homes with down payments that are much less than 20% of the total cost of the property. Today, you can buy a home with as little as 3-5% down.

There are multiple programs out there that allow you to have a lower down payment, and a mortgage broker can talk you through which option is the best for you. Since you’re putting less money down, you’re a riskier borrower to your lender than people who put down a full 20%. Because of this, you will most likely need to pay mortgage insurance as part of your monthly payment.

Myth #2: Real estate agents are expensive.

Your agent is with you every step of the way throughout your home buying journey, and he or she spends countless hours working on your behalf. It sounds like having an agent is expensive, right? Well, not for you. Buyers usually don’t pay a real estate agent’s commission. Your agent’s fee is paid for at closing by the seller of the home you’re buying. The seller knows to factor this cost into the property’s total purchase price.

Myth #3: Don’t call a real estate agent until you're ready to buy.

The earlier you bring in an agent to help with the purchasing process, the better. Even if you’re in the very early stages of casually browsing Zillow, a real estate professional can be a huge help.

They can create a search for you in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), so you get notifications for every house that meets your criteria as soon as it hits the market. The MLS is typically more up-to-date than popular home search sites like Zillow and Trulia. Setting up a search a few months before you’re considering buying gives you a good idea of what’s out there in your town that’s in your budget. Reviewing the MLS and speaking with an agent as soon as possible can help you set realistic expectations for when you actually start the house hunting process.


Myth #4: Fixer-uppers are more budget friendly.

We’ve all watched the shows on HGTV that encourage people to go after fixer-uppers because they’re more affordable and allow buyers to eventually renovate the home to include everything on their wishlist. But, this isn’t always the case.

Sometimes, homes that need a lot of work also require a lot of money. Big renovations, like add-ons, a total kitchen remodel, or installing a pool, take a lot longer than it looks on TV. If you’re really interested in a fixer-upper, ask your agent to show you a mix of newer homes and older homes. If you fall in love with an older home that needs a lot of work, get some quotes from contractors before you buy so you know the real cost of the renovations and see if you can work them into your budget.

Myth #5: Your only upfront cost is your down payment.

Your down payment is big, but it isn’t the only money you’ll spend during the home buying process. At closing, you’ll pay your down payment, but you’ll also bring closing costs to the table. Closing costs are typically anywhere from 2-4% of the total purchase price of the home. This amount includes the cost for items like homeowners insurance, title fees, and more.

You’ll also need to pay for an inspection before closing, which usually costs a few hundred dollars. This price will be higher or lower based on the size of your new property. Your lender will also require an appraisal. An appraiser will come in and inspect the home to determine how much it’s worth. Depending on your lender, you may have to pay this when the appraisal is conducted or it might be rolled into your closing costs.

Myth #6: You need a high credit score to buy a house.

You don’t need perfect credit to buy the perfect home. There are loans out there that buyers with lower credit scores can qualify for. These are good options for people who have had credit issues in the past, but some of them come with additional fees you will need to pay. Speak to a few local lenders or mortgage brokers to talk through which options might be best for you.

Myth #7: You can't qualify for a mortgage if you're still paying off student loans.

While some buyers may feel more comfortable paying off their existing debts before taking the leap into homeownership, it’s not a requirement. When you’re applying for a mortgage, the lender takes a close look at your debt-to-income ratio.  If you want to calculate this on your own, add up all of your monthly debt payments and divide those by your monthly income. When you’re lender does this, they’re trying to make sure that you will be able to afford your monthly mortgage payments along with your other existing payments. If your income is high enough to allow you to make all of these payments each month, having a student loan will most likely not stop you from getting a mortgage.

Myth #8: You should base your budget on what your lender approves.

How much house you qualify for and how much you can afford are two totally different numbers. When you prequalify for a mortgage, your lender will look at your income, debt, assets, credit score, and financial history to determine how much money you might qualify for.  For some people, this number might be much higher than you thought because lenders tend to approve for the highest amount they think you can afford. But that doesn’t mean that’s how much you should borrow.

Instead, figure out how much house you can actually afford. An online mortgage calculator can be a good first step in determining this number. We recommend thinking about what you want your monthly payment to be as a starting point. And remember to include your principal, interest, taxes, and, insurance. You should also think about ownership expenses that aren’t part of your monthly payment, like HOA dues and maintenance.

Myth #9: It's all about location.

You’ve heard the phrase. Location, location, location is basically the real estate industry’s motto, but we’ll let you in on a little known secret: It’s not always true. Yes, location is great to consider when it comes to school districts and commute times, but you also need to think about how the home will function for you and/or your family’s lifestyle. If a family of five is choosing between a one bedroom condo in the bustling city center and a 4-bedroom home out in the suburbs, the latter is probably the best, most functional choice for them. Also, by buying in a less sought after neighborhood, your property taxes will most likely be much lower!

Obviously, you might still want to choose an area with great resale potential, and this is something that your agent can speak to you about. They’re an expert in your city and are constantly monitoring buying and selling trends.

Myth #10: If you look hard enough, you'll find a home that checks every box on your wishlist.

You’ve seen that famous house hunting show. And while we have our suspicions about how real it is, the one thing they get right is that almost every buyer needs to compromise on something. Yes, the perfect house that meets every item on your wishlist is probably out there, but it’s also probably double or triple your budget.

A long wishlist can be a great starting point for figuring out what you want and don’t want, but we recommend narrowing that wishlist down to the top five things that are important to you in order of priority. We also recommend noting on your wishlist what your absolute deal breakers are, like “must have a yard for our dog,” and noting what you can live without, like “heated bathroom floors.”

This is a great list to discuss when you first start talking to an agent. A good real estate agent will be able to look at your list and find properties that might work for you. By coming to that first meeting with realistic expectations and knowledge about home buying rather than a bunch of myths heard here and there, you’ll be able to start the process off on the right foot and be in your new house in no time.



WE’RE HERE TO HELP

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, there’s no reason to go through the home buying process without an advocate on your side. We’re here to answer your questions and do the hard work for you, so you can spend your time dreaming about your new home. Call us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Get Pre-Qualified with the Florida Mortgage and Loan team Pre-Qualification This soft Credit Report is accurate and doesn't effect your score.

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Tuesday, March 9, 2021

Tips for Credit Card Reduction in 4 Easy Steps




 The secret to debt elimination lies in reducing or eliminating APR applied to your balances. By minimizing the interest charges that get added to your debt each billing cycle, you can focus on paying off principal; that’s the actual debt you owe. Then you simply prioritize your balances and knock out each debt one by one:

  1. Call your credit card companies to negotiate lower interest rates.
  2. Revisit your budget to free up as much cash flow as possible.
  3. Prioritize your credit card balances for elimination based on your budget.
  4. Focus your cash flow on eliminating one debt at a time to become debt-free.

As you decide on the best way to take down credit card debt, there are two basic tactics you can use. The strategy we outline above stays the same no matter which path you choose. The difference is how you prioritize your credit card debts for reduction in Step 3. We go into more detail on each step below, so you know exactly what to do at each stage to get out of debt.

  1. Use a credit card debt worksheet to list out all your debts. You specifically need to note each current balance and the APR.
  2. Call each credit card company to see if they will negotiate to lower your interest rates; if so, adjust the interest rate on your worksheet accordingly
  3. Prioritize the list from highest APR to lowest.
  4. Now review your budget to cut any unnecessary expenses; this maximizes the cash flow you have available to pay off debt.
  5. Make the minimum payments on all your debts except the one with the highest APR.
  6. Then make the largest payment possible on the debt with the highest APR.
  7. Keep that up until the debt is gone, and then move on to your next highest APR debt.

As you eliminate each debt, you free up more money to pay off the next debt. This accelerates repayment until you reach zero on all your balances. This acceleration to reach the bottom is why this method is commonly referred to as the Debt Avalanche – a term coined by the financial expert Dave Ramsey.


If your highest APR debts are also your biggest balances, tiger style debt reduction may not work. This is especially true if you couldn’t free up any extra cash for debt elimination because your budget is tight. In this case, you may not have enough power to tackle your largest debts first. Instead, you need to peck away at your debts, starting with the lowest balance first.


All the steps above stay the same, but you prioritize your debts in Step 3 by current balance. You start with the lowest balance first, which frees up money bit by bit. Each debt you eliminate gives you more money to take out the next debt.

With crane style, you essentially start pecking away at your debts. Each debt that you knock down gives you more financial power to take out the next. By the time you get to your biggest balances, you have the monetary power you need to take them down.


  • Stop charging! Any new credit card debt will only set you back as you pay off your balances. Avoid making new charges to your credit cards until you have your balances paid off.
  • Build savings into your budget. Unexpected expenses are a leading cause of credit card debt. Try to pad your budget with at least some emergency savings. If you’re living paycheck to paycheck, pay off a balance and then divert the cash that you save to an emergency savings fund.
  • Avoid solutions that put you in a weaker financial position. If you’re looking for solutions to a traditional debt reduction plan, avoid options that increase your financial risk, like a home equity loan, or that damage your credit, such as debt settlement.

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How to Avoid the Top 8 Home Inspection Mistakes


 Check out our educational videos on youtube: Inspections [Video]

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of buying a home. Once you’ve had an offer accepted on your dream house, you’ll probably be anxious to move in. However, before you make a significant financial commitment, it’s best to know exactly what you’re buying.

When you hire a home inspector, you get a professional, in-depth examination of the property’s structures and systems. It’s a worthwhile investment that can save you money in the long run, either by warning you away from a bad purchase or by providing a list of deficiencies you can use to negotiate with the sellers.

The inspector’s report will also list minor repairs that, if made, will help to maintain your home over the long term. Additionally, a good inspector can often predict the standard life expectancy of your roof, HVAC, and other big-ticket items so you can start planning for their eventual replacement.

However, many buyers make mistakes during the inspection process that cost them time and money and lead to unnecessary stress. Avoid these eight common buyer blunders to minimize your risk, protect your investment, and give yourself peace of mind and confidence in your new home purchase.

MISTAKE 1: Skip Your Own Inspection

Many buyers rely on their home inspector to point out issues with the property. However, by conducting your own visual assessment before you submit an offer, you can factor expected expenses into the offer price. Or, if you suspect major problems, you may choose to move on to a different property altogether.

Examine the walls and ceilings. Are there suspicious cracks, which could point to a foundation issue? Any discoloration? Yellow spots can indicate water damage, while black spots are typically mold. If there’s a basement, look for powdery white deposits along the walls and slab, which can result from water seepage.

To assess the plumbing, start by turning on a bathroom sink or tub, then flushing the toilet. Check for a drop in water pressure or a gurgling sound coming from the pipes. You can also try running the water in sinks and tubs for several minutes to test for drainage issues. Peak underneath sinks to spot signs of leaks or drain pipes that go into the floor instead of the wall.

Look for fogged or drafty windows, which may need replacing. Examine the roof for signs of cupped, curled, or cracked shingles. Check siding, decks, and other wooden structures for evidence of rot.

Overall, does the home appear to be well maintained? Unless it’s a highly-competitive seller’s market, consider the overall condition of the property BEFORE you submit an offer. Work with your real estate agent to factor in repairs and updates you know you’ll need to make when you determine your offer price.

MISTAKE 2: Hire the Cheapest Inspector

We all love to save money, but not all inspectors are created equal. Before you hire one, do a little research. You may even want to start shopping for an inspector before you complete your home search. Inspection periods are typically short, so it never hurts to be prepared.

You can start by asking around for recommendations. Check with friends and family members, as well as your real estate agent. Then contact at least two or three inspectors so you can compare not only price but also levels of experience and service.

Ask about their background, years of experience, and the number of inspections they have completed. Verify their certifications and credentials, and make sure they carry the proper insurance.

Find out what is (and what isn’t) covered in the inspection and if they utilize the latest technology. Ask to see a sample report so you can compare the style and level of detail provided. Finally, make sure you feel confident in the inspector’s abilities and comfortable asking him/her questions.

MISTAKE 3: Miss Attending the Inspection

Make every effort to be on-site during the inspection. Buyers who aren’t present during their inspection miss out on a great opportunity to gather valuable information about their new home.

If can attend the inspection, don’t spend all your time picking out paint colors or chatting with your new neighbors. Instead, use your time there to shadow the inspector. It’s the perfect chance to find out where everything is located, ask questions, and see first-hand what repairs and updates may be needed.

Of course, if you do choose to tag along with your inspector, exercise good judgment. Don’t get in the way, become a distraction, or do anything to jeopardize your (or the inspector’s) safety.

If you can’t make it to the inspection, ask if you can schedule a time to meet in person or speak by phone to go over the report in detail. It will give you an opportunity to ask questions or request clarification about issues in the report you don’t fully understand.

MISTAKE 4: Skim Over the Report

Inspection reports can be long and tedious, and it can be tempting to skim over them. However, buyers who do this risk missing crucial information.

Instead, you should read over the report carefully, so you don’t miss anything significant. Now is the time to address any areas of concern. You have a limited window of time to request repairs or negotiate the selling price, so don’t squander it.

Your inspector may also flag some minor items that you wouldn’t typically expect a seller to fix. However, ignoring these small issues can sometimes lead to bigger problems down the road. Make sure you read everything in the report so you can take future action if needed.

MISTAKE 5: Avoid Asking Questions

Some buyers are too embarrassed to ask questions when there’s something in the inspection report they don’t understand. Afraid they might look foolish, they avoid asking questions and end up uninformed about important issues that could impact their home purchase.

The reality is, questions are expected. You hired your inspector for their professional expertise, so don’t be shy about tapping into it. For example, you might ask:

      Would you get this issue fixed in your own home?

      How urgent is it?

      What could happen if I don’t fix it?

      Is this a simple issue I could fix myself?

      What type of professional should I call?

      Can you estimate how much it would cost to make this repair?

      How much longer would you expect this system/structure/appliance to last?

      What maintenance steps would you recommend?

 

Don’t bother asking your inspector if you should buy the property, because he/she won’t be able to answer that question for you. Instead, use the information provided to make an informed decision. A skilled real estate agent can help you determine the best path.

MISTAKE 6: Expect a Perfect Report

Some buyers get scared off by a lengthy inspection report. But with around 1600 items on an inspector’s checklist, you shouldn’t be surprised if yours uncover a large number of deficiencies. The key is to understand which problems require simple fixes, and which ones will require extensive (and costly) repairs.

Your real estate agent can help you decide if and how to approach the sellers about making repairs or reducing the price. Whatever you do, try to focus on the major issues identified in the inspector’s report, and don’t expect the sellers to address every minor item on the list. They will be more receptive if they perceive your requests to be reasonable.

MISTAKE 7: Forgo Additional Testing

There are times when an agent or inspector will recommend bringing in a specialist to evaluate a potential issue. For example, they may suggest testing for mold or consulting with a roofing expert.

Some buyers get spooked by the possibility of a “red flag” and decide to jump ship. Or, in their haste to close or desire to save money, they choose to ignore the recommendation for additional testing altogether.

Don’t make these potentially costly mistakes. In some cases, the specialist will offer a free evaluation that takes minimal time to schedule. And if not, the small investment you make could provide you with peace of mind or save you a fortune in future repairs.

MISTAKE 8: Skip Re-inspection of Repairs

Most buyers request receipts to prove that repairs have been correctly completed. However, it’s always prudent to go a step further and have negotiated repairs re-evaluated by your inspector or another qualified professional, even if there’s an additional charge.

While the majority of sellers are forthcoming, some will try to save money by cutting corners, hiring unlicensed technicians, or doing the work themselves. A re-inspection will help ensure the repairs are completed properly now, so you aren’t paying to redo them later.

To avoid having to go back to the sellers, be specific when requesting repairs. Identify the problem, how repairs should be completed, who should complete the work, and how the repairs will be verified.

Some buyers prefer to avoid this step altogether by completing the work themselves. They either request that the seller fund the repairs or reduce the selling price accordingly. Whichever path you choose, protect yourself and your investment by ensuring the work is done properly.

WE CAN HELP

A home inspection can reduce your risk and save you money over the long-term. But to maximize its effectiveness, it must be done properly. Avoid these eight common home inspection mistakes to safeguard your investment.

While these are some of the most common missteps, there are countless others that can trip up home buyers, cost them time and money, and cause undue stress. Fortunately, we have the skills and experience to help you avoid the potential pitfalls.


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Deceptive Mortgage Ads


If you’re looking for a mortgage either to purchase a home or to refinance, you may see or hear ads offers of low rates or payments. They may look like they are from your mortgage company or a government agency but whether you see these on the Internet, TV or they come by e-mail or in your mailbox you should be cautious. While the offers seem tempting some are terribly flawed: they don’t disclose the true terms of the deal as the law requires. 

To help you recognize an offer that may be less than complete, the Florida Mortgage & Loan wants you to know the buzz words that should trigger some question marks and follow up questions so you know what information to insist on after you’ve read the ad.


A LOW “FIXED RATE”

Ads that tout out a “fixed” rate may not tell you how long it will be “fixed”. The rate may be fixed for an introductory period only, and that can be as short as 30 days. When you shop for a mortgage, you need to know when and how your rate, and payments, can change. 


Very Low Rates

Are ads talking about a “payment” rate or an interest rate? This important detail may be buried in the fine print. The interest rate is the rate used to calculate the amount of interest you will owe the lender each month. The payment rate is the rate used to calculate the amount of the payment you are obligated to make each month. Some offers advertise a low payment rate without telling you that ie applies only during an introductory period. What’s more, if the rate is less than the interest rate, you won’t be covering the interest due. This is called “negative amortization”. It means that your loan balance is actually increasing because you’re not paying all the interest that comes due, and the lender is adding the unpaid interest to the balance you owe.



Very Low Payment Amounts

Ads quoting a very low payment amount probably aren’t telling the whole story. For example, the offer might be for an Interest Only (I/O) loan, where you pay only the amount of interest accrued each month. While the low payment amount may be tempting, eventually you will have to pay off the principal. Your payment may go up after an introductory period, so that you would be paying down some of the principal or you may end up owing a “balloon” payment, a lump sum usually due at the end of a loan. You must come up with the money when a balloon payment is due. If you can’t, you may need another loan, which in turn means new closing costs and potentially points and fees. And if housing prices are falling you might not be able to refinance to lower your payments.


Teaser Rates

Mortgage rates near 30-year lows!

Rates as low as 1%!

You are paying too much!

Who doesn’t want to reduce their mortgage payments?

Loan amount $300,000 – pay only $900 per month!

Ads with “teaser” short term rates or payments like these don’t often disclose that a rate or payment is for a very short introductory period. If you don’t nail down the details in advance about your rates and payments for every month of the life of your loan, expect payment shock when the rate and payment increase dramatically.


Official Lookalikes

Important notice from our mortgage company.

Open immediately - Important financial information enclosed.

Please do not discard – account information enclosed.

Appearances can be deceiving. Mailers that have information about your mortgage and your lender may not be from your lender at all, but rather from another company that wants your business. Companies can legally get your information from public records. Before you respond to any offer, review it carefully to make sure you know who you’re dealing with.


You are eligible to take part in an exclusive government loan program. We can negotiate your existing adjustable rate mortgage to a new low fixed rate mortgage. You must contact us immediately regarding this notice.

Some businesses use pictures of the Statue of Liberty or other government symbols or names to make you think their offer is from a government agency or program. If you’re concerned about a mailing you’ve received, contact the government agency mentioned in the letter. If it’s a legitimate agency – and not one that just sounds like a government agency -  you’ll find the phone number in the Blue Pages of your telephone directory.


Tuesday, January 12, 2021

A Seasonal Guide to Maintaining Your Home


 From summer vacations to winter holidays, it seems each season offers the perfect excuse to put off our to-do list. But be careful, homeowners: neglecting your home’s maintenance could put your personal safety—and one of your largest financial investments—at serious risk.

 In no time at all, small problems can lead to extensive and expensive repairs. And even if you avoid a catastrophe, those minor issues can still have a big impact. Properties that are not well maintained can lose 10 percent (or more) of their appraised value.

The good news is, by dedicating a few hours each season to properly maintaining your home, you can ensure a safe living environment for you and your family ... and actually increase the value of your home by one percent annually!

Use the following checklist as a guide to maintaining your home and lawn throughout the year. It's applicable for all climates, so please share it with friends and family members who you think could benefit, no matter where their home is located.

    

 After a long, cold winter, many of us look forward to a fresh start in the spring. Wash away the winter grime, open the windows, and prepare your home for warmer weather and backyard barbecues.

 

Inside

 

     Conduct Annual Spring Cleaning

 

     Shut Down Heating System

 

     Tune Up A/C

 

     Check Plumbing

 

     Inspect Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

 

Outside

 

     Inspect Perimeter of Home

 

     Clean Home’s Exterior

 

     Clean Gutters and Downspouts


     Seed or Sod Lawn

 

     Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

 

     Plant Flowers

     Mulch Beds

     Fertilize Lawn

 

     Tune Up Lawn Mower

     Inspect Sprinkler System

 

     Check the Deck

 

     Prepare Pool


    

Summer is generally the time to relax and enjoy your home, but a little time devoted to maintenance will help ensure it looks great and runs efficiently throughout the season.

 

Inside

 

     Adjust Ceiling Fans

 

     Clean A/C Filters

 

     Clear Dryer Vent

 

     Check Weather Stripping

 

Outside

 

     Mow Lawn Regularly

 

     Water Early in the Morning

 

     Weed Weekly

 

     Exterminate Pests

 

    

Fall ushers in another busy season of home maintenance as you prepare your home for the winter weather ahead.

 

Inside

 

     Have Heater Serviced

 

     Shut Down A/C for the Winter

 

     Inspect Chimney Fire safety experts recommend that you have your chimney inspected annually and cleaned periodically. Complete this task before you start using your fireplace or furnace.

 

     Seal Windows and Doors

 

     Check Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

 

Outside

     Plant Fall Flowers, Grass and Shrubs Fall is a great time to plant perennials, trees, shrubs, cool-season vegetables and bulbs that will bloom in the spring. It’s also a good time to reseed or sod your lawn.

 

     Rake or Mow Leaves

 

     Apply Fall Fertilizer

 

     Inspect Gutters and Roof

 

     Shut Down Sprinkler System

 

     Close Pool

 

                 Winter (most of these aren't relevant in Florida)

 While it can be tempting to ignore home maintenance issues in the winter, snow and freezing temperatures can do major damage if left untreated. Follow these steps to ensure your house survives the winter months.

 

Inside

 

     Maintain Heating System

 

     Tune Up Generator

 

     Prevent Frozen Pipes

 

Outside

 

     Drain and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets

 

     Remove Window Screens

 

     Service Snowblower

 

     Stock Up on Ice Melt

 

     Watch Out for Ice Dams

 

     Check for Snow Buildup on Trees

 

 

While this checklist should not be considered a complete list of your home’s maintenance needs, it can serve as a general seasonal guide. Systems, structures and fixtures will need to be repaired and replaced from time-to-time, as well. The good news is, the investment you make in maintaining your home now will pay off dividends over time.

 

Keep a record of all your maintenance, repairs and upgrades for future reference, along with receipts. Not only will it help jog your memory, it can make a big impact on buyers when it comes time to sell your home … and potentially result in a higher selling price.

 

Are you looking for help with home maintenance or repairs? We have an extensive network of trusted contractors and service providers and are happy to provide referrals! Call or email us, and we can connect you with one of our preferred vendors.

(772)807-9699

Email: andrea@myfloridaloan.com


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