Buyers Information - www.murphyshometour.com

If you've decided to sell your home, chances are you're caught up in a host of emotions. You may be looking forward to moving up to a new dream house or facing the uncertainty of a major move across country. You may be reluctant to leave your memories behind or eager to start new adventures. Whatever turbulent feelings you're experiencing right now, there are plenty of practical matters that need your attention…

Getting help to spruce up the inside of your home is as close as the phone, mouse or remote control. Today's homeowners have lots of options when it comes to interior design. While hiring a professional to turn your house into a dream home is certainly one way to go, there are lots of other places you can turn for help that won't cost a penny. With enough time and effort, anyone can become a Martha Stewart by turning to Martha Stewart herself…

An appraisal assists the mortgage lender in assessing the value of the house to determine whether a mortgage should be made and in what amount. Generally, the appraisal will analyze the condition of the house, its location, structural soundness and comparable sales in the area. A survey, on the other hand, goes to the question of the marketability of the house. The surveyor determines whether the house is within the property borders, whether there are any encroachments on the property by neighbors and the extent to which any easements on the property may affect legal title…

If you believe what it says, late night TV is full of great ways to invest in real estate. Most investors - they seem to suggest - are looking at big paybacks with no money down. That's unlikely, like going to the store to buy a watermelon and offering to pay for it with a paperclip (a highly-unlikely feat which my daughter successfully managed to do this summer at camp). It takes forethought and preparation to be successful in real estate. You also need to realize that buying real estate is investing and with investing there is risk: If you don't know what you're doing, you can make a costly mistake…

As we enter the sweltering days of late spring and early summer, homebuyers' thoughts will naturally turn to patios, decks, landscaping, air conditioning, and in some cases, pools. So if your home is on the market, you'll want to make sure your house is in top order and summer-friendly. Spring, particularly March and April, is typically the time of year that garners the most home sales; summer runs a close second…

While it may sometimes appear that your home inspection is the end-all, tell-all, it isn't. Home inspectors occasionally make mistakes, which is why it's important to carefully review everything that comes to light in the inspection process and question findings that don't add up. The average home has more than 60,000 pieces and parts to it. Short of being able to see through walls, predict cracks where none is showing, and test every single element of your home, even the best home inspector has to rely on representative samplings, coupled with experience and up-to-date product and systems information in tracking down faulty points…

During a recent tour of a town-home for sale, I was struck at the owner's apparent apathy for increasing her odds. My Realtor and I tripped over a pile of tennis shoes in the front entryway. Newspapers were littered about the living room floor. A pile of shirts drooped over the recliner. The morning's breakfast dishes were still on the table, being hungrily eyed by a pair of dogs confined to another section of the kitchen behind a baby gate. We walked out to the backyard to discover overgrown grass, chipped and peeling paint, and dog toys strewn about the lawn. The truth is that the town-home had potential, but after being met with this display, I had little interest in heading upstairs to view the bedrooms. It didn't dawn on me until that moment that how owners display their homes during showings is critical. Even in hot markets like Dallas, buyers are savvy enough to know that they have plenty of other options -- homes which have been well-maintained and convey the owner's sense of pride…

Generally speaking, and in the absence of a contractual agreement to the contrary, fixtures remain with the house. Personal items can be removed by the seller. As one can see, it certainly makes a difference if an item is characterized "personal property" or "fixtures." For example, can a seller take a removable wet bar from the basement, even though the plumbing is hooked up? Does a window air conditioning unit convey with the property? There are no easy answers to any of these questions…

The trend in residential construction is definitely "build bigger". In the last 30 years, the square footage of a typical single-family house has increased by 40 percent. Yet there are some buyers looking for smaller houses. Many empty nesters are looking to downsize from houses that often exceed 4,000 square feet to ones that are 2,000 square feet or smaller. Another segment is the first-time buyer. Typically just starting out and cash-poor, the first-timer in the new-house market wants an affordable house that will launch him or her on the road to equity. However, while both segments want smaller, they want to have the appearance of bigger…

A growing number of people are getting into the swing by buying a home at one of the nation's many new golf communities. The National Golf Foundation reports that since 1986, the number of golfers in the United States has jumped 34 percent. During that time, the number of residential golf communities has also been on the rise. In fact, the NGF says about 45 percent of golf course construction today is part of a residential community. Golf communities are alluring to golfers and non-golfers alike and appeal to a wide range of age groups. In addition to the golf course, many of the communities offer a host of other amenities, such as swimming pools, baseball and softball fields, basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, and hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Some also feature a community recreation center, club house, restaurant, and reception areas…

While the thought of paying a mortgage is more enticing than paying rent, it's important to understand all the costs involved in buying and owning a home as you determine whether you can afford to join the ranks of homeowners. Potential buyers sometimes forget to factor in the down payment, homeowners insurance and the possibility of depreciation, as well as the costs associated with closing the transaction, moving, purchasing major appliances, and home, landscape and pool maintenance, not to mention furnishings and design accessories once you move in…

If you've been waiting to get through the holidays and closer to warmer weather before beginning the search to buy your first home, you're not alone. The traditionally busy spring real estate season is just around the corner, meaning heavy competition looms. But there are things you can do as a potential homebuyer to get a head start. The number of home sales in 2002 shattered records with 5.56 million existing and 979,000 new homes sold throughout the country, according to National Association of Realtors chief economist David Lereah…

Once those formalities have been resolved, here are some suggestions. Let's assume your parents currently have $150,000 in liquid assets. Your purchase price is $150,000. Your parents can lend you the entire purchase price, and you will take title to the condominium in your name only. You will sign a promissory note, agreeing to repay this money over an agreed upon period of time. To secure payment of this note (and to allow you to deduct the mortgage interest for tax purposes) you will also have a deed of trust (the mortgage document) recorded against your property in favor of your parents…

Your boyfriend will be paying half of the mortgage and half of the utilities. Does he have any interest in obtaining half of the property in the future - whether or not you stay together as a couple? Does he believe that he will be obtaining any ownership rights because he is making these payments? What about furniture? Will you be furnishing the entire house, or will your friend share in these expenses? What happens should you decide to split? Will you be able to afford to carry the house on your own, or will you need to get a roommate to assist you financially? If both of you were to go on title, the law is universal in the United States…

You've finally found the perfect - or near-perfect - house. You've haggled, negotiated, and appear close to finalizing the deal. But first you'll want to hire a professional inspector - and then you'll want to do some inspecting yourself, including the home's major systems. An inspection involves a qualified professional who will take an objective look at the condition of the property and prepare a report. But it's also important that you, as the buyer, carefully inspect every foot of the house for things that might not be included in the professional inspection, as well as the things that are, like the systems - heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical service, and the water heater…

In the Southern U.S. it is not unusual to pass by many mobile home parks on the way to an everyday destination. They were - and still are - considered a vital part of many communities across the country and may offer a viable alternative to traditional housing for households seeking an affordable home of their own.. For some, a manufactured home can fulfill their dream of homeownership. Fortunately, the industry has gone through many changes in the last 25 years to assure quality and safety in the construction of manufactured houses…

If you're close to buying a home in the coming year, then you'll want to keep a close eye on your holiday spending. You don't want to hamper your chances of getting a loan, and you'll want to be sure you have plenty of cash on hand in your first year of homeownership. The International Mass Retail Association in a late October survey estimated that holiday shoppers will spend an average of $863 on gifts this year. However, they ultimately end up spending some 15 to 30 percent more, the association says. Because your credit history is so important in obtaining a loan, you'll want to refrain from opening any credit accounts for major appliance or electronic purchases. You'll also want to avoid running your existing credit cards to their limits. Why? When you apply for a mortgage, the lender may request a credit score as well as a credit report…

Many would-be home buyers are dismayed at the ever-increasing price of their rent and housing in general. In addition, they just can't seem to make enough money top afford the purchase of a home. They are in industries that will not provide them more opportunity than what they have now. As an example, someone who's salary was at $15,000 and though there are houses priced about $50,000, their debt to salary ratio knocks them out of the buying arena at this time. They can't see homeownership as a part of his future. For people in this situation there is hope.. Someone making $15,000 could purchase a house in several markets with today's interest rates…

Thinking about a second home? In 2001, nearly 6 percent of the record 6.2 million sales of single-family homes were of second homes. According to the most recent data, there were 3.6 million vacant seasonal homes in the third quarter of 2002, up from 3.1 million in 1990 and only 1.7 million in 1980, the U.S. Census Bureau said. "That category often is cited as the total number of vacation homes," David Lereah, chief economist of the National Association of Realtors, says. "However, we believe that assumption misses many recreational properties that are not vacant." Other census data show there are 9.2 million homes held by owners in addition to their primary residences…

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). PMI is a monthly fee that the borrower pays if the first trust loan exceeds 80 percent of the purchase price. Since a lower down payment results in a statistically higher risk to the lender, PMI insures a portion of the loan to reduce the risk to the lender. Thanks to creative lenders, however, a borrower can still put as little as no money down and avoid PMI by taking out two loans. Ask your loan officer about loan packages with no PMI, sometimes called "piggy-back" financing…

Counting the extended cost of home ownership, can you afford to buy a home? The first person you will want to talk with about your qualification will obviously be a lender or real estate agent. Once you find out your buying power, then you need to calculate what new expenses you will have once you move out of the apartment and into your first home…

What is a home inspection? A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical checkŠup. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector will refer you to the appropriate specialist or tradesperson for further evaluation…

First-time homebuyers face a steep learning curve. There's much to know, much to learn, and a great potential for "rookie mistakes" -- with costly consequences. One common mistake is rushing into the transaction. Buyers looking for homes in extremely tight markets may feel pressured to make an immediate offer. Instead, it makes sense to become familiar with the local market before making a purchase offer. Not asking enough questions is a widespread problem. First-time homebuyers, by definition, simply don't have home buying experience. It may be uncomfortable to ask questions, but ask anyway. Brokers can't answer unasked queries…

While most people (almost 80%) have their homes inspected prior to purchase, just who is it that is inspecting the inspector? We've all seen those hidden-camera stories of home inspectors missing major defects, glossing over major problems or finding problems that they then offer to fix (for a charge, of course). Since the industry isn't closely regulated, it is important to make sure your home inspector is well trained and insured, especially since you are relying on the home inspector's professional assessment to help decide on the biggest investment of your life…

Check with your local U.S. Department of Agriculture for regulations regarding moving plants from one state to another. Many states have restrictions on certain plants to prevent importing bugs or pests that can destroy valuable cash crops. A couple of weeks before you move, prune plants to facilitate packing. Consult a florist or a plant book for instructions. A week before your move place your plants in a black plastic bag, along with a bug/pest strip, conventional flea collar or bug powder…

For homeowners aiming to sell their home and buy another, it's the classic question; "Buy or sell first"? If you sell first, you may find yourself under a tight deadline to find another house, or be forced in temporary quarters. If you buy first, you may be saddled with two mortgage payments for at least a couple months. You may need the money from the sale of your original home in order to pre-qualify for a loan for your new home. You may be facing a job relocation and need to sell quickly. There are many variables involved; there is no universal correct answer. It basically comes down to your specific circumstances…

The basic guidelines for investing wisely are well known and it's not uncommon to acquire a first property before age 30. The fact is that it's never too early to start building equity. Yes, owning rather than renting implies new and different responsibilities. The reality is that 42 percent of all home buyers are first-timers according to the National Association of Realtors. No doubt, among these many first-times are those who have yet to reach age 30. No less important, the earlier you buy the earlier you are likely to pay off your mortgage and build up debt. No, real estate is not a sure thing, but most owners in most markets have done well over time…

A builder's warranty should be an important part of any new home purchasing decision. Whether you're buying from a builder with a household name or one that is new to the business, what a warranty says and the ability to get warranty work completed should not be overlooked. There are several general types of warranties and each is important to you. At the most basic level, a home must meet local building code standards. Building codes are complex and detailed requirements which govern home construction…

At the Neighborhood Housing Service (NHS) of New Haven, CT, low-income participants who obtain home economics counseling and save just $20 per month in what's called an "Individual Development Account" or (IDA) are eligible for double matching funds of up to $1,000 over a two-year period. In Austin, TX, Foundation Communities' (FC) similar IDA program requires participants to save at least $300 a year at the rate of at least $25 a month. The program double matches the money to be used toward housing, post-secondary education or business start-ups…

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the roof to the foundation. The standard home inspector's report will include an evaluation of the condition of the home's heating system, central air conditioning system (temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement, and visible structure. Having a home inspected is like giving it a physical checkŠup. If problems or symptoms are found, the inspector will refer you to the appropriate specialist or tradesperson for further evaluation…

There are several advantages to having a realtor when buying commercial estate. Realtors will almost invariably save you money, by lowering your opportunity costs. The following are three specific ways a realtor will save you money…

Detroit is currently experiencing an overall shift of much of its industrial and office activity from the city center to the suburban markets. With this in mind the Detroit market is staying pretty level in vacancy rates for both industrial and office space at 14.04% and 16.71% respectively. While leasing activity has increase dramatically for both Warehouse/Manufacturing and Research and Development/High-Tech…

As this year marches on, Bakersfield CA continues to show strong returns in the commercial real estate sector. The strong commercial market is being fueled by a robust internal population growth. Bakersfield grew 28.1% from 1990-2000, compared with a 13.8% state average for the same period. The city of Bakersfield is expected to grow by 14.4% over from 200-2007 (compared to a 7.5% state rate)…

When buying commercial real estate it is vital that you carefully consider its location. Buying in the correct location for you and your business can make or break the money making potential of your purchase. The first thing you must determine is what exactly your needs are. Take the time to make a careful list of all the things that you will need from your commercial property…

Boise Remains Stable amidst uncertainty. Investment real estate demand remained strong in Boise during 2003 and is expected to expand during the coming years. The highest premiums have been paid for single-tenant, triple-net leased properties with credit tenants and remaining terms greater than five years. Additionally high vacancies have seemed to stabilize in what analysts predict is a preparation to lowering…

Baltimore Hangs On To Industrial Growth. The Baltimore market has remained steady throughout the recession years. In 2003 it absorbed as much space as it added - 2.3 million square feet of bulk distribution, flex, and office-warehouse space. This consistent behavior is expected to be the foundation for greater economic growth in the coming year…

Boston is enjoying the fruits of an increasingly robust economy. The Federal Reserve just issued a positive economic report for both commercial real estate markets and the commercial sector as a whole. The Fed reported that "Boston activity continues to gain strength, retailers and manufacturers report growth in sales and orders. Demand for software and information technology services as well as temp workers are also rising." The Fed further reports that "Commercial real estate markets may be stabilizing."…

Charleston S.C. enjoys economic gains for commercial investors The past year has been very positive for Charleston's overall commercial real estate economy. The city has rejoiced along with the nation in being a part of the overall national trend toward economic recovery. Charleston is well into a recovery and is showing signs of long-term growth. In particular Charleston has experienced a real growth in the office market. Growth in the market was a combination of new speculative development, corporate build-to-suit activity and adaptive re-use of older facilities…

According to the Federal Reserve "Economic activity continued to expand" in Dallas. The expansion has been led by increased manufacturing activity and demand for business services. The Fed reported that "Economic activity continued to expand from mid-April to early June. Manufacturing activity was up. Demand for business services is increasing but remains slower than contacts expected…

The Federal Reserve reports that the economic environment in Cleveland "remains strong."Cleveland is coming off of an economic slump in 2003 and is enjoying gains in manufacturing sectors for the first half of this year. The Fed reported that "The economic environment remained strong. In the manufacturing sector, increases in production continued to be broad-based, something that could not be said before the beginning of this year. Retailers reported steady conditions in recent weeks as well. Many firms reported that their hiring is likely to be limited for the remainder of this year."…