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Avoid Taxes on Capital Gains on Real Estate

Capital gains taxes can apply to investments, such as stocks or bonds, and tangible assets like cars, boats and real estate. The money you make on the sale of your home might be taxable. Here's how it works and how to avoid a big tax bill. The good news about capital gains on real estate The IRS typically allows you to exclude up to: - $250,000 of capital gains on real estate if...

Should I Do For Sale By Owner?

What Is For Sale by Owner, Exactly? For Sale by Owner or FSBO is when the owner of a house sells it on their own without any representation from a real estate agent. Is For Sale by Owner Worth It? Most home sellers decide FSBO isnʼt worth it because itʼs more of a hassle and you walk away with less money. Bottom line: Selling a house by yourself instead of using an agent usually...

How To Tackle Contingencies

Contingencies refer to the things that need to happen before your home sale can be finalized. Until contingencies are met, neither you nor your buyer are contractually obligated to fulfill the home transaction. As the seller, youʼll mainly want to pay attention to contingencies like these: - Home inspection - Appraisal - Financing Home Inspection Even if you paid for an...

What Happens if the Appraisal is Lower than the Offer?

What happens if the appraised value of the house you're selling comes in too low? In addition to ensuring there are no safety hazards at a home, the bank appraiser is also making sure that the home value is at least what a buyer and seller agree too. This isnʼt always possible though. If an appraiser determines the value of the subject property is lower than the agreed purchase amount, there...

What is a HOA and What You Should Know About It

What is a HOA and Things You Should Know about it. A homeowners association is an organization that makes and enforces rules for multiple-unit buildings like condominiums and townhouses and planned communities of single-family homes. If you buy a property with an HOA, you automatically become a member. You agree to abide by the rules and regulations and to pay dues, known as HOA fees. An HOA...

What is the Best Time to Buy a House?

What Is the Best Time to Buy a House? Although the best time to buy a house is when you're ready both financially and emotionally, there are other factors that can help you decide when to buy a house. By timing your purchase just right, you can nab a great home that's just right for you. What Is the Best Month to Buy a House? There's no such thing as a guaranteed "best month" to purchase...

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

What to expect during a home inspection? A house inspection is a routine process during which a home inspector takes a look at the house. Once you are under contract on a home, youʼre ready to hire a home inspector. Based on what the home inspector finds, you can decide to back out of the contract without a penalty, or you can proceed with negotiations. 1. Meeting your home inspector at the...

7 Signs You’re Ready to Sell Your House

Here are seven signs you're ready to sell your house: 1. You've got equity on your side. Figuring out how much equity you have may sound complicated, but the math is actually simple. 2. You're out of debt with cash in the bank. Start by taking a hard look at your finances. If you've paid off all your non mortgage debt and have three to six months of expenses in your emergency fund, that's a...

A Home Warranty can Bridge Negotiation Gaps

A home warranty can help you prepare for the worst during the chaotic period of selling your home — whether itʼs the water heater or refrigerator that goes down the drain. With a policy in place, instead of panicking, you can simply call your provider. Plus, home warranties can be used as marketing incentives to attract buyers and provide a little extra peace of mind. Here are 10 key...

Why Buying a House Before Selling Yours is a Bad Idea

You might be so focused on getting a new home that you prioritize buying one before selling your current home. If this means youʼll pile a second mortgage on your back, you definitely shouldnʼt buy before you sell. Sure, buying a new home before selling your current home would make it easier to move. You wouldnʼt have to worry about where to store your stuff or where to stay. But an easier move...