MOBILE APP FOR SCHOOL SEARCH

Realtor.com® First to Add School Search in Significant Update to Mobile App

 Realtor.com® ^[1], a leader in online real estate operated by Move, Inc., has announced a substantial update to its realtor.com® mobile app for iOS and Android. In addition to being the first to allow home buyers to target listings

SOLAR PANELS...WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Solar Panels Puzzle Would-Be Buyers

  ^[1](MCT)—With solar panel prices plunging and generous tax credits and incentives still available, now may be as good a time as any to go solar.

But shopping for a solar power system can be a tough task. Consumers face a bewildering array of options. There are thousands of different solar panel models from dozens of manufacturers. In some regions, consumers can choose from among hundreds of different panel installers. And once they pick their panels and a contractor, they have to figure out how to pay for their system from among several different methods.

SHORTEN THE LIFE OF YOUR MORTGAGE

An Easy Way to Cut 4 Years Off Your Mortgage

  ^[1](MCT)—We are now officially in the peak spring home buying-season. I was asked the other day for advice on what should be at the top of the list for homeowners after they move into their new home.

That was an easy question to answer. My No. 1 piece of advice for recent homebuyers is to switch from the traditional monthly mortgage payments to either weekly or bi-weekly payments.

FHA FINANCING: THE GOOD AND NOT SO GOOD

What’s the Story with FHA?

  ^[1]I hear a lot about the Federal Housing Authority, and much of it is simply wrong. “The FHA is the next subprime.” Untrue. “The FHA caused the housing crisis.” Also untrue. There is a lot of misinformation making the rounds, which helps neither brokers nor buyers. Here’s the low-down on what brokers or buyers’ agents need to know.

What is FHA?
The Federal Housing Authority, which was founded in 1934, is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The FHA insures loans made by the private market; it does not itself lend money. Its purpose is to provide access to safe, affordable financing when the private market cannot or will not participate.
What are the benefits/drawbacks of an FHA loan?
Historically, these loans have featured low down payments, closing costs and credit score requirements.