How to Protect Your Home from Title Fraud (Often For Free)
Title theft is a type of crime where scammers replicate your signature to create a fake deed, loan…
Why Is My FICO Score So Important in Getting a Mortgage?
Most lenders rely on a credit score, called a “FICO score” to determine a Borrower’s creditworthiness when applying…
When Selling a House, Avoid Awkward Misunderstandings Over Fixtures and Furnishings
State-of-the-art appliances, sleek lighting fixtures and tasteful window treatments can all make a memorable impression on potential home…
6 Tips to Ensure a Smooth House Closing
Real estate closings can be fraught with complications and setbacks, but they can go smoothly and quickly —…
What Should The Purchase Agreement Include?
The Purchase Agreement (or Residential Purchase or Sales Agreement and Deposit Receipt) is the overriding document that will…
How Much Can I Borrow?
Depending on your annual income, cash reserves, creditworthiness, and the appraised value of the property, you may be…
What States Have No State Income Tax?
There are currently nine states which do not require you to file a state income tax return. States…
Use Contingencies To Protect Your Right To Cancel a Sale
Kristen and Ben had been looking for the right property to buy for over six months. They finally…
Do I Live In A Community Property State?
Holding title to real property as Community Property is a type of ownership available to married couples only….
These Common Title Problems Can Snag Your Home Closing
In almost all real estate transactions, there are title issues that must be cleared up in order to…
Confused About How to Hold Title to Your Property? Here Are Your Options
One of the most important decisions that needs to be made at closing is how you choose to…
State by State Closing Guide
Here is a summary of closing practices for each of the United States. This is a general reference guide. Local practices within your city or county may differ.
How Will My Loan Be Handled in Escrow?
Once you have opened escrow and given the escrow officer the details of your purchase, you will next…
State by State Sales Tax Rates
This map indicates individual state sales base-line tax rates. Local sales taxes are collected in 38 states. In…
Is Title Insurance A Worthy Investment?
Evelyn Hunter wanted to deed a small condominium apartment in Pasadena, Ca., to her grandchildren. Because this property…
Real Estate Advice: Tips for a Fast Closing
Now more than ever, Buyers (and often Sellers) want a speedy escrow closing. The standard escrow period takes…
Trust Distribution of Assets: Is There a Way to Save on Income Taxes?
If you are a Beneficiary of a Trust and the Trustee will be distributing the assets towards the…
Know Before You Owe Disclosure Forms
Under the direction of the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB), lenders must give borrowers two important disclosure forms…