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Showing posts from 2010

The Home Inspection Process - Andrew Alpaugh

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 Scott Andrew Alpaugh is longtime friends with a certified home inspector who has been in the business for over 10 years. He says that the home inspection process is a vital step for anyone who is buying or selling a property. Here's how it works: - The home inspector will contact the seller or the seller's agent to schedule a convenient time for the inspection. The inspection usually takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. - The home inspector will arrive at the property and conduct a visual and operational examination of all the major systems and components, such as the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, ventilation, doors, windows, appliances, etc. The home inspector will also look for any signs of damage, defects, safety hazards, or potential problems that may affect the value or functionality of the property. - The home inspector will document his findings in a detailed report that includes photos an...

Should I use a Realtor to buy? - Andrew Alpaugh

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  Wendy and Andrew Alpaugh are a married couple who recently bought their dream home in a quiet neighborhood. They want to share their tips on how to choose the right realtor from their experience in finding a suitable realtor. Here is what they have to say: - Do your research. Before you contact any realtor, do some online research on their credentials, reviews, and track record. Look for realtors who have experience in the area and type of property you are interested in. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or coworkers who have worked with realtors before. - Interview several realtors. Once you have a shortlist of potential realtors, schedule interviews with them to see if they are a good fit for you. Ask them about their availability, communication style, fees, and marketing strategy. You should also ask them for references from previous clients and check them out. - Trust your gut. After interviewing several realtors, you should have a sense of who you feel com...

Finding the right mortgage lender - Andrew Alpaugh

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  Wendy and Andrew Alpaugh are a married couple who recently bought their dream home in the suburbs. They had to go through a lot of challenges and decisions to make their dream come true, but one of the most important ones was choosing the right mortgage broker. In this article, they share their tips and advice on how to find a suitable broker for your needs. A mortgage broker is a professional who acts as an intermediary between you and the lenders who offer mortgages. They can help you compare different options, negotiate better rates and terms, and guide you through the application process. However, not all brokers are created equal. Some may have hidden fees, conflicts of interest, or poor customer service. That's why it's crucial to do your research and find a broker who is trustworthy, experienced, and transparent. Here are some of the steps that Wendy and Andrew took to choose their mortgage broker: - They asked for referrals from friends, family, and coworkers who had ...

Things to consider when buying a house - Andrew Alpaugh

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  Buying a house is a major decision that requires careful planning and research. There are many factors to consider when choosing a property that suits your needs and preferences. Here are some of the most important things to consider when buying a house by: - Location: The location of the house affects its value, accessibility, convenience, safety, and lifestyle. You should consider the proximity to your workplace, schools, shops, public transport, parks, and other amenities. You should also check the neighborhood's crime rate, noise level, traffic, and future development plans. - Budget: The budget is the amount of money you can afford to spend on buying and maintaining a house. You should consider your income, savings, debts, expenses, and credit score. You should also factor in the costs of mortgage, taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs, and maintenance. You should look for a house that fits your budget and offers good value for money. - Size and layout: The size and layout of...