Michael Sinton's Real Estate Blog

Mortgage applications are being reviewed far more thoroughly now than in the past, and your credit score should be 680 or higher to qualify for the best interest rates. So how do you determine your score, and know you're getting the credit you deserve? Everyone is allowed one free credit report p...

While not a very common problem, if you've got it, it can have a terrible impact on your listing: The Messy Neighbor. If you live next door to a "neglected" property, you might lose up to 20% of your home's market value, particularly with buyers looking for any excuse to reduce their offer. It's ...

As you've already read here, conditions are ripe to become a homeowner, and it's time to determine if you’re ready to make the leap. While the price of the home is the largest factor, don't forget about loan fees and closing costs, which add to your total financed amount. Since banks are stricter...

If you're under pressure to sell your home quickly in a challenging market, you may have to swallow a large dose of reality and take some radical steps to increase your home's visibility. While making concessions can seem difficult, please consider the following proven suggestions to produce a qu...

Many areas of the country are experiencing buyers markets, and current tax laws make this a very attractive time for parents to help their children become homeowners. Prices and interest rates may never be lower than they are now, so strongly consider this potential investment in your children's ...

When you receive an Offer To Purchase, you are likely to focus on the price. You might be ecstatic over a full price offer, but you should be aware how "contingencies" could affect the likelihood of success. Almost every offer has a mortgage contingency, stating that the buyer will secure financi...

The question on everyone's lips is, "When are things going to return to normal in real estate?" Well, if the "normal" being referred to is the conditions and shady financial dealings that created the artificially inflated markets of five years ago, then we need to be thinking about redefining “no...

After you've taken step one to decide to sell your home, step two is usually setting your asking price, striving for a balance between generating offers and receiving top dollar. We will perform a Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) to produce an estimate of your home's "fair market value," or that...

If you own or plan to purchase a home, then you know that insurance is not just a luxury, it’s a requirement. While you should not skimp on certain coverage items, there are some steps you can take to reduce your overall premium. If you have a security system installed (and operating!), you might...

When a homeowner faces default on their mortgage, there may be two options: foreclosure or short sale. Foreclosure can be devastating, both emotionally and financially. A short sale, or one in which the lender accepts a selling price less than the amount owed, is a better option for both the lend...