Rhonda Duffy's

Learning Cafe for Home Buyers and Sellers – Exposing the Truths and Busting the Myths in Real Estate

To Do: Order a Survey

August27

It is very important to order a survey.

Most lenders do not require a survey anymore so it is optional for you.
The closing attorney’s office will order the survey upon your request.
This information is from Jill Elliott’s website, a closing attorney friend of Rhonda’s. Here is her take on the issue.

(So what do you think you are buying?) Read the rest of this entry »

Pending Home Sales Up Again!

August23

Pending Home Sales for July increased by 3.2%, more than double the expectations of 1.5%, and representing the sixth consecutive monthly gain…the longest streak on record.

While it’s nice to finally hear some positive news about the housing sector – let’s remain cautious in our optimism, as many first time homebuyers moved up their home purchasing plans to take advantage of the Federal tax credit (according to the Mortgage Market Guide). Read the rest of this entry »

Rhonda’s voice is heard in AOL Housingwatch article!

August20

Please go to http://www.housingwatch.com/2010/08/18/home-listings-only-half-of-last-years-have-sold/ to read it!

10 Ways to Prepare for Homeownership

August17
1. Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.
2. Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list. Read the rest of this entry »

Choosing the Best Home

July25
After weeks of searching for your next home, you now have it narrowed down to two great options. One offers a shorter commute, but the other offers more square footage for your growing family. How can you make the best choice?
There are several strategies you can employ in your decision making process. Above all, be confident in your decision making abilities. “The fear of making serious decisions is a new kind of fear, called decidophobia,” proclaimed by Walter Kaufmann at Princeton University in 1973. Worry and procrastination do nothing to aid the process, so buyers, be confident that you will make a sound choice. Read the rest of this entry »

Using a Power of Attorney

June17
Many attorneys will allow you to get a power of attorney for your closing. This could be your spouse, relative, friend or another attorney. In the case of a husband and wife, this is helpful so that one person can be with the movers. Read the rest of this entry »

Scheduling The Movers – Know Your Options

June12
Remember that your Purchase and Sale Agreement allows for a seven day unilateral extension. This means that you should know what the penalties and options are for your moving plans. You can also rent PODs to hold your furniture. Read the rest of this entry »

Tips for Moving with Pets

June6
If you will be moving soon and have pets, here is a great guide for you!
http://www.tipsandformsforbuyers.com/docs/450IDEASBONUS-PETS.pdf