If you've served in the U.S. military, a VA loan might be an excellent way to finance your first home. If you're interested in using this benefit, it's important to know the steps involved. Here is a basic guide to buying your first home with a VA loan: Get Your Certificate of Eligibility A certificate of eligibility from...

Assuming a VA loan can be a convenient and cost-effective way for veterans to finance a new home. By assuming a loan, the buyer can take over an existing mortgage when buying a home. Loan assumption can have numerous advantages for the buyer and seller, and is considered an often overlooked VA benefit. Here are some major reasons...

Getting preapproved for a mortgage is an essential part of the home-buying process. While it’s possible to wait before securing your financing, there are major benefits to getting preapproval early. For more information about preapproval, here are the basics to consider: When to get preapproval It’s recommended that would-be homebuyers obtain a preapproval letter from a mortgage lender...

If you’re searching for a new home, it’s important to be aware of the different terminology used for property conditions. Knowing the details of a property can help you avoid extra costs and frustration after purchase. “Move-in ready” is one term you will probably encounter in the housing market. Here is an explanation of what “move-in ready” actually...

Photo by Romakoma via Shutterstock Many modern housing developments share areas such as parks, pools and playgrounds. When this is the case, they need a homeowner’s association to tend to the needs of the common areas. The same is true for condominium complexes and townhome communities. Since hallways, elevators and the outsides of buildings require shared maintenance, the...

Photo by LDprod via Shutterstock Buying a house is more than the number of rooms and how it is staged. It’s a set of complex systems in a specific location. And while it’s not all about location, that’s a perfect place to start your list. Where to Buy Areas and neighborhoods trend for a variety of reasons. If...