Saving Money With Multi-Family FHA Loans

In the 1900s you would commonly find family generations living under one roof. For the last decade, extended families have begun to move farther apart. But again, this trend is changing.

Mostly for economic reasons, extended families have begun to live together once again. Thinking of ways to save and cut corners? Look into an FHA loan on a multi-family home.

A multi-family property is any home or residential building that has more than one unit. Most people purchase multifamily housing in order to invest in the property and use the rent from the tenants to pay the mortgage. The newest trend has been to purchase a multi-family home and move extended families under one roof.

FHA insured home loans can be used for a variety of properties, including purchasing the multi-family home for up to four families, or a condo or even a “manufactured home” on a permanent foundation.

FHA loans are an excellent choice for those with less than 720 Fico scores, and the FHA is still guaranteeing home loans.

• There is a minimum down payment of requirement for all FHA new home loans.

• Credit guidelines are more lenient with acceptable scores in the 600s.

• FHA does allow loan applicants to borrow money for a down payment, with restrictions

Some borrowers still have a difficult time coming up with the down payment and closing cost fees, however there are many programs available that “gift” these fees to the borrower.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have no direct grant programs for down payment or closing cost assistance, so borrowers are not able to apply directly. Borrowers can inquire about these programs from their Mortgage broker or lender.

Many lenders participate with local, state and federal programs that provide down payment and closing costs assistance, i.e., all mortgage lenders and brokers are not created equal. This is why it can be vital to look around and ask your broker or lender which programs they take part in.

Living with parents just became the new trend

Many people looked down on the notion of “still” living with the parents, but today, mom and dad, siblings with husbands in tow and grandparents can be beneficial in many ways.

1. With several incomes, the monthly mortgage is more affordable

2. Child care fees are greatly diminished

3. When living with family, we tend to spend less on entertainment and enjoy more family time, which greatly benefits the younger generation

It may not be an ideal situation for everyone, but many families are making this FHA multi-family mortgage benefit them in many ways, especially with today’s tightened grip on our finances.

Speak with a real estate agent and lender to discuss your options.

Retiring For The Budget-Conscious

Being budget conscious does not necessarily mean that you have to deprive yourself of an enjoyable retirement. Of course the more money you have to retire with, the less you’ll have to worry and the best way to boost your retirement fund is to start saving early. Even those with limited retirement funds can benefit from some smart planning.

Re-Evaluate what you need

The first step is to create a retirement spending plan – where do you stand? The most important thing to consider when you create your retirement spending plan is whether or not the plan is reasonable. If it’s not, you probably won’t stick to it.

Mistake #1; the biggest mistake prospective retirees make is when they do not take a hard look at their overall retirement situation. Is your nest egg enough to generate retirement income for the next decade or more? Take a good look at your retirement situation because it could be time to downsize.

How much annual income will you need during retirement?

Financial planners suggest that you’ll need about 75 to 85 percent of your pre-retirement gross income to maintain your current standard of living. Of course, this can vary according to your lifestyle.

During retirement, you will pay less in taxes, save less, and you should have less of a mortgage burden than you did while working. While many expenses will decrease during retirement, many will increase.

Mistake #2; one in 10 Americans choose to downsize early, at the onset of retirement. Early planning to downsize to more affordable lifestyles can save you thousands every year. Only recently during our economic downfall have Americans began planning for retirement sooner than later. Why wait until you’re under water and barely surviving?

The practical alternative is smaller

Who said you would have to sacrifice the amenities when you downsize? The American dream was built around the idea of bigger is better but lifestyles have changed and the aging population are opting out of the “big” notions and choosing to keep it small. Retirees are turning to alternatives.

Whether it’s one-floor ranch styled homes, modular homes and manufactured homes or perhaps a home on wheels, retirees have a bevy of options to reduce living expenses.

Think about this – retirees require only the basics for living, sleeping, cooking and bathing. Do you really need several bedrooms, a family room, dining room, basement and more? This only translates into more electricity, more rooms to clean and more expenses.

Smart seniors realize that small can be advantageous, especially to the pockets.

Pricing A Home To Sell

Psychologically which price looks and feels better to you - $299 or $300? People generally feel like it’s more of a bargain with $299, although the difference is a mere dollar.

There’s a fair amount of psychology and strategy that goes into determining a home’s asking price and while you may have a price in mind, that doesn’t mean your home is priced to sell. It’s all about tapping into the mind of potential buyers and how they identify with your price.

The biggest hurdle is to determine a fair price for your home, sans any emotions. Ask any homeowner what their home is worth and the price will include all the memories that have gone into making a piece of property a home. Emotions have no place in this business practice.

It’s understood that sellers don’t want to simply give their homes away and everyone wants to sell for the maximum price, but buyers are seeking bargains and with an abundant inventory, sellers must be flexible.

The real estate agent will identify the approximate value of a property based on comparisons of similar properties sold in a neighborhood, the market conditions, competing surrounding properties, and the time of year. Once all of these elements are considered, the real estate agent will have a price range in mind.

Here are a few strategies for the seller to consider;

• Listen carefully to your agent’s pricing strategy – they are the experts. It’s their job to know what works and what doesn’t. And as with any strategy, be prepared to have an ongoing discussion about pricing with your real estate agent. If potential buyers are not biting, it may be time to re-think the asking price.

• By pricing your property on the average to the lower end of the price range, you will stimulate more interest among more than one buyer. Also, for those homeowners in a position to sell quickly, this would be a good option to get more offers. Sellers who list their homes too high miss out on a segment of buyers.

• Forget the creative pricing strategy - $488,888? Odd priced homes call attention to the price for no good reason. The goal is to showcase the property, and to appeal to as wide an audience as possible. Getting eccentric with your asking price counteracts the tried-and-true strategy of psychological pricing. Well thought out rounded figures work best - $299,000

A lot of factors can come into play when selling or buying a home, and not all of them can be anticipated. If you can be flexible and react quickly to changing market conditions you’re more likely to get the best price with the least aggravation.

South Bay Home Sales Rise

The local housing market enjoyed an increase in single-family home sales for October, even as prices fell.

South Bay cities - excluding the Palos Verdes Peninsula and Inglewood - saw 183 sales of single-family homes, up 8 percent from the same month a year ago.

In a statement released Wednesday, the South Bay Association of Realtors reported that the median price of those sold homes was $400,000, down 26 percent from a year earlier.

The median price is the middle figure where half of homes sold for more and half for less.

The improved sales with lower values represent real estate's uncertain future as monthly data give mixed signals about the industry's direction.

"Increased single-family sales suggest that buyers and sellers are coming together more effectively and new families can get into homes for which they are qualified to buy," association President Caren Greenwood said in a statement. "If this trend continues in the coming months and going into 2012, and appropriate financing is available to qualified buyers, then we hope that it signals the economic recovery gaining strength."

Sales of local condominiums and town homes were less promising, with 6 percent fewer transactions in October compare with a year earlier.

The median price in this segment was flat at $409,000.

Warren Snyder, co-owner of a mortgage brokerage and real estate company, said he has been an uptick in business in part because of low interest rates.

"We're doing a lot of refinances, and we're also doing a lot of sales right now through short sales," said Snyder, of Carriage Realty & American Broker Loans in Rolling Hills Estates.

While the housing market continues to look shaky, Snyder said that lower home values mean he has been able to help his clients lower their assessed property taxes.

Statewide, home sales also rose last month, according to the California Association of Realtors.

Resales of single-family homes across the Golden State reached 493,240 in October, up 8.5 percent from a year earlier, and a 0.9 percent rise from September of this year.

The statewide median price was $278,060, down 8.9 percent from a year earlier and 3.3 percent decline from a month earlier.

Note: Article written by Muhammed El-Hasan of the Daily Breeze.

Does Your House for Sale Advertisement Say "Buy Me Or Boring"?

It's no secret that human beings react to words, and any edge that a seller can gain - starting with the house ad - is vital.

While advertising your home is not an exact science, some words seem to give a listing more power than others. "Beautiful" rather than "move-in condition" translated on the average to three percent or more on the sale price - that works out to $9,000 on a $300,000 house.

Words that denoted "curb appeal" or general attractiveness - such as good neighborhood or excellent upkeep, for instance - helped property sell faster than those that described "value" and "price."

There is always something that can be said in an enticing influential way, which will force a buyer reading the ad to see opportunities. It is always important to help elaborate on the home's assets by providing descriptive details and giving the buyer a visual.

Placing a spin on the advertisement is the best opportunity to getting people in the door. You may chose to say, 'professionally designed,' 'Laura Ashley-inspired,' 'designer decor' or 'gourmet kitchen,' ".

It is also important to use proper terminology to enhance a feature. For example, heated floors in a master bathroom should be referred to as 'radiant heating' or a 'spa-like master bathroom.' If an owner claims there's nothing new, it can be referred to as, 'lovingly maintained’.

Many times sellers can make overstatements about the home. Your realtor will perform a walk-thru and ensure all the characteristics of the home have been considered; real estate agents create that visual romance that potential home buyers are looking for.

Is it Help or Hype?

Everything these days is about price and timing; potential buyers know a good deal is possible. Combine that with a properly worded advertisement, and you have the better chance than the next seller.

Buyers are attracted to verifiable amenities – the new roof, new carpeting, updated kitchen, beautiful landscaping, finished basement, golf course community, lakefront, or a gated community. If a property has a finished basement, it should be fully finished – not just one room in the basement.

Constructing your Ad

1.Start with a strong opening statement about the home

2.Mention the one or two key benefits that will attract buyers' attention and spark their interest

3.Include the significant facts about the property, such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms

4.Use words that appeal to the emotions and senses

5.Be accurate. Prospective buyers are bound to feel disappointed or manipulated if the home doesn't match your description.

Lastly, always close with a statement that encourages prospective buyers’ – don’t leave a blank slate. "Call today" is a call-to-action statement that translates into ‘catch me now while the getting is good’.

Buying A home May Now Be Cheaper Than Renting That Apartment

In an ironic turn of events, many people are finding they cannot afford to pay rent and are turning to buying a new home.

Falling house prices and increasing rental demand have made it cheaper to buy a property than to rent. Individuals are quick to assume a rental would be much more peaceful on the pockets, but it turns out most rentals are priced, on average, approximately 25 percent higher than a monthly mortgage.

With home prices way down, low interest rates and sky high demand in the private rental sector, buying has never been a better option for those able to secure a mortgage. And with home owners reducing prices even further, in preparation for a quick sale during the holiday season, this has become one of the best times in history to purchase a home.

The statistics in every state show that the average rent is more than a monthly mortgage payment. When you add on the incentives to owning a home, it’s a strong argument to contact a real estate agent quickly.

Take a look at average rental prices in a few states;

Alabama $ 724

Arizona $ 815

California $ 1455

Colorado $ 1032

Florida $ 982

Georgia $ 819

Illinois $ 1098

Maryland $ 1283

Nevada $ 811

New Jersey $ 1468

New York $ 1672

Pennsylvania $ 1009

South Carolina $ 753

Tennessee $ 794

Texas $ 946

Virginia $ 1149

Average rates, based on 2 bedroom

Renters have failed to realize what an opportunity they have right now. There is an abundance of homes to choose from; and a larger selection of available homes versus rental units. Imagine shaving off $300 from your monthly rental payment? What about purchasing a new home, with all your required amenities, in the vicinity that’s central to everything, all at a lower monthly cost?

But the million-dollar question is whether prospective homeowners can get a loan.

After the mortgage meltdown, banks tightened credit standards including increasing down payments which shut out many potential homebuyers; however, there are many programs available to help get those homebuyers into a new home.

Many factors have created great deals in the housing market, but those same factors also might be too daunting for many individuals to overcome right now.

Everyone should know where they stand. At a minimum, meet with a mortgage broker and real estate agent to ascertain what home loan programs you may qualify for. This could very well be the best time in U.S. history to purchase property.

A Better Advantage With Credit Union Mortgage Loans

Amidst the topsy-turvy spiral of mortgage lending, most borrowers feel as though they need to hire a team of expert finance and legal consultants before pursuing a mortgage loan. Who can blame them? From the unintelligible disclosures to the twists, turns and requirements presented during processing, borrowers must approach the loan process with an eagle eye on the bottom line. Getting the most bang for the bucks.

After the wave of borrowers lost their homes in the fiery ashes of mortgage-gate, many prospective homeowners are hesitant about mortgage loans in general. Adding fuel to this fire are unattainable rates, poor servicing and being subjected to polices that serve the lender, but not the borrower's needs.

Credit unions are showing that there’s a better way to bank with several distinct mortgage loan advantages;

• More flexibility when locking in rates. Published mortgage rates can be locked for 45 to 60 days without a fee, when most banks quote 15 or 30 day rates.

• Credit union mortgage rates are better than those of other lenders because the company does not build a profit margin into its loans.

• Most credit unions do not have prepayment penalties on mortgage loans and do not charge origination points, unlike commercial lenders.

• Credit unions have more flexibility of approving loan applications.

• Credit unions can charge lower rates than conventional lenders because they are nonprofit institutions.

• Credit unions can save hundreds in closing costs by eliminating or decreasing many of the usual fees.

Service, low closing costs and mortgage rates are the differentiating factor among lenders, not to mention trust. Credit unions have a stable, reputable status and are not marred by the economic mess created by commercial lenders. A strong point when deciding whom you should submit an application.

These loans, which are available to anyone who meets a credit union’s membership terms, are not typically marketed, yet they have grown increasingly attractive during the last year.

Time to Compare Lenders

Many people will tell you they’re too busy to switch banks or comparison shop. Well, start with a quick call to your current financial institution and check to see if they are willing to decrease some fees and sweeten the deal for you. We are dealing in tough times and with the current economic demise, banks should be on the lookout to keeping customers happy. If they are unwilling to budge, it’s clearly time to shop around.

You can search for credit unions in your region at asmarterchoice.org, the website run by the industry’s trade association.

Buying a Budget Home

When it comes to real estate, it’s really hard to beat an inexpensive home. You may call it inexpensive while others refer to it as a cheap home – but they are very affordable and ideal for those on a budget.

These bare-bone types of homes represent a way to purchase property at a low price, build it up, and have instant equity. Making money with real estate is easy to do - no matter how you look at it.

Although you can find cheap homes throughout your state, some will obviously be better than others. Some are in great neighborhoods, giving you plenty to see and plenty to do all around you. On the other hand, most towns that offer the cheapest homes normally have a bad situation when it comes to the job market. They can be great to retire to or settle down in if you own a business, although they aren’t great if you need a job. Internet marketers and writers are finding these areas, and are flocking to them at a very fast pace.

The Best Way to Purchase Low

You can save quite a bit of money by buying a home that is practically unfinished, but still fits your needs. What this means, is buying a home in the inexpensive areas of your town, or buying a home that has not been completed yet. You shouldn’t be focused on one type of home or neighborhood, but instead look at your available options and compare prices.

Many builders have gone out of business, leaving plenty of unfinished properties. Let your real estate agent investigate how to purchase these almost finished properties. You’ll save a bundle and can have the home completed within months.

Keep in mind that buying cheap homes doesn’t necessarily mean buying a rundown place or buying your home in a bad part of town. You can get a cheap home in a great neighborhood, if you weigh your options accordingly. If you shop around and look at different areas, you might find yourself very surprised at just how many homes are available at cheap prices.

In some cases, you can end up paying the full price of a home and still end up spending less than someone else might spend. Although price has an impact, financing is also an area that can help to make a home more affordable. If you get a low interest rate, you’ll save a lot of money when you buy the home. There are several ways that you can save money through your finance options, which is why you should always research what’s available to you before you buy.

Contact a real estate agent and provide a list of what you’re looking for and how you want to save money. Finally, keep your options open because now is the best possible time to negotiate.

Three Reidential Improvements That Add Value

There are two ways to go about making home improvements. Either you splurge for things purely for the pleasure of having it or you take a pragmatic approach, making purchases that will increase your home's market value.

Exactly how much you'll recoup in costs depends on several factors, including the value of the homes in your neighborhood, when you plan to sell the home and the nature of the project itself.

But there are three improvements that will up your value no matter what!

1.Install a Standby Generator. Standby generators can add value to your home and while they are moderately expensive to install, they will safeguard your family by keeping power running in an emergency. Unlike a portable backup generator, which you store in the garage or shed and roll out during an emergency, a standby generator is permanently installed on a gravel bed or concrete pad next to your house. If the power goes out, an electronic switch automatically signals the unit to turn on, keeping essential household systems and appliances running

The cost of these units all depend upon your comfort level and what your expectations are. If you lose power, would you prefer the whole house remains running as if nothing ever happened or do you need just the basics to get through the rough time? Prices for standby generators can start as low as $1700, however, this does not include the price for an electrician to install and test the generator.

2.Create a Home Office. Many companies are looking for ways to reduce costs and minimize space to house employees; additionally, millions of Americans work from home and that number grows every year. This has made a home office more of a necessity than a luxury. Creating a dedicated work space not only adds value to your house, but it also makes your telecommute tax deductible. Converting an unused den, sunroom or extra bedroom is a great way to take care of business from the comfort of your home.

3.Infuse some Curb Appeal. If your house doesn't look appealing from the outside, chances are a potential buyer will never make it inside. Paving a driveway or walkway that is in disrepair is a must, because this is what leads people to your home -- you want it to be welcoming. Attractive, manicured front-yard landscaping will also add value to your home. Drought-tolerant plants are a great option if you don't have a green thumb. And don't forget about your backyard either. Outdoor living is very popular as more people wish to entertain. Raised garden beds and attractive lounging furniture will definitely appeal to future buyers. Who said you must spend a fortune? Curb appeal can be created for under $500.

Keep in mind that design tastes can shift significantly over time. A house that's priced higher than its neighboring homes could be perceived as overpriced even if it does have more value.