What is PMI insurance?
PMI or Private Mortgage Insurance insures lenders against losses when they have to foreclose and can only sell…
Sample Quitclaim Deed
Here is a sample quitclaim deed taken from the pages of The Complete Guide to Your Real Estate…
What Is the IRS Form 4506 Which I Might Be Asked to Sign at Closing?
What is the IRS Form 4506 which I might be asked to sign at closing? Form 4506 is…
Can I Ever Get Someone Else to Pay My Closing Costs for Me?
One of the most effective ways of avoiding one or more of your closing costs is to ask…
Will My Ex-Husband’s Debts Show Up on My Credit Report?
Your divorce decree does not relieve you from joint debts you incurred while married. You are responsible for…
Mortgage Payment Calculator
Use this handy calculator to figure payments on the loan you are considering.
Real Estate Links
Buyer Resources Seller Resources Escrow and Closing Resources Real Estate Professionals State and Regional Title Associations Buyer Resources…
What Happens When Your Rental Is Being Converted Into a Condo?
Do you live in an apartment building that is going to be converted to a condominium? If so, are you at risk of being evicted? Or is this your unanticipated chance to finally become a homeowner? Many cities where land is scarce and housing is hard to find have developers who are clamoring to find established rental buildings that are suitable for conversion.
Closing and Settlement Q&A
“Closing” or settlement or “escrow” is listed as one of the top ten problem areas that occurs in…
Will I Have to File a State Income Tax Return?
There are currently seven states which do not require you to file a state income tax return. States…
Title Insurance Glossary
Also see the Loan Glossary A Abstract of Title A summary of the public records affecting the title…
Loan Glossary
Also see the Title Insurance Glossary Adjustable Rate Loan or Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) A loan with an…
I Heard That My Builder Will Be Handling My Escrow. How Can I Protect Myself?
It may be common for you to hear that the builder of the new home you will be…
Will My Escrow Agent Have to Report My Sale to the IRS?
The Tax Reform Act of 1986 required anyone responsible for closing a real estate transaction, which may include…
Closing Checklists
Buyer’s Home Closing Checklist Have you made a final walk-thru inspection of the property? Is the condition of…
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.
Summer Vacations Are When Mold Comes Out to Play
Summertime traditionally brings family trips, school vacations, as well as plenty of hot uncomfortable weather. Those sunny days, however, often come with high humidity and afternoon thundershowers — ideal conditions for annoying and potentially toxic mold.
The Complete Guide to Real Estate Closings
The Complete Guide To your Real Estate Closing has helped thousands of home buyers and sellers take control of their closing, saving on closing costs, and remove the mystery and confusion of the settlement process.