Month: November 2013

How to Apply for a Mortgage Loan

The first step to becoming a homeowner is applying for a mortgage. This is a crucial step in the home buying process that cannot be overlooked. Many times, real estate agents even require that you are preapproved by a mortgage company before they will spend their time showing you homes. It is important to know that… Read more »

Why Property Taxes go up after Buying a Home

Be sure to investigate property taxes before you buy a home. Sure, the real estate listing may estimate the current property taxes but you need to take it a step further to get the full tax costs. One common tax number that is overlooked is the SEV or State Equalized Value. Property taxes are based… Read more »

Important Mortgage Program Updates Regarding USDA Loans, Conventional Loans and FHA Loans

FHA Back to Work Program: Buying a Home after Foreclosure or Bankruptcy The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has announced a program that allows a borrower to buy a home sooner after foreclosure, bankruptcy, deed-in-lieu, or short-sale. This new FHA program is called The Back to Work Program. This is an extension of the current FHA… Read more »

Top Reasons to Buy a Condo in Grand Rapids MI

One of the most popular  and affordable real estate options are to buy a condo in Grand Rapids, MI. Condo, which is short for Condominium, is somewhat like a perfect mix between an apartment and a house. There are many advantages to buying a condo versus purchasing a home. It allows homeowners to invest and build… Read more »

Top West Michigan Sporting Events

Sports events are amount the top things to do in West Michigan. The city of Grand Rapids and its surrounding suburbs host an array of events and games the residents love and enjoy. Many of the sporting events draw thousands of tourist and visitors each year. Here are just 5 of the top sporting events… Read more »