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Home Buying

Welcome to the ActiveRain Home Buying section. This is the place where you'll find comprehensive information on everything connected to purchasing a home – and we mean everything.


What exactly goes on in a home inspection and how is it different from a home appraisal? Curious about what it takes to purchase that foreclosure you've had your eye on? You'll find out how to do it right here. Look around: the professionals at ActiveRain have the information you need.


ActiveRain is the top real estate social network in the world. So, while you may find articles about purchasing a home on other websites, only at ActiveRain do you have the opportunity to read the words of wisdom from over 300,000 real estate industry professionals. From real estate agents to lenders to home inspectors and stagers -- that's a lot of brain power and we've harnessed it, right here at AR.


What are you waiting for? Everything you need to know about home buying awaits you on the following pages!

Recent blogs on Home Buying
By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Having a preapproval letter can significantly increase your chances of getting your offer accepted compared to having a prequalified letter. Sellers often prefer buyers who have already been through a thorough financial review and have been pre-approved for a mortgage, as it shows that they are serious and ready to move forward with the purchase. A preapproval letter gives sellers more confidence in your ability to secure financing and close the deal, making your offer more attractive to them. In a competitive real estate market, having a preapproval letter can give you a significant advantage over other buyers who only have a prequalification letter.  
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Getting pre-approved instead of just pre-qualified is highly recommended for buyers because it shows sellers that you are a serious and qualified buyer. Pre-approval involves a more in-depth financial review, including verification of income, assets, and credit history. This gives you a more accurate idea of how much you can afford to spend on a property and strengthens your offer when competing with other offers that are just pre-qualified buyers. This gives you a stronger position in the homebuying process and a clear idea of how much can afford to spend. And can give you an advantage in a competitive real estate market in the eyes of sellers. Pre-approval also shows that you are ready and able to make an offer on a property, which can give you an advantage in a competitive market. In...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Santee Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 California Mariposa RECENTLY SOLD Whispering Willow Drive | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1203 sq. ft. | $745,000 Carefree East RECENTLY SOLD Restful Court | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 896 sq. ft. | $509,000 Corsican Villas RECENTLY SOLD Kerrigan Court | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1323 sq. ft. | $624,000 Mission La Vega RECENTLY SOLD Buena Vista Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 903 sq. ft. | $455,000 Morningside NEWLY LISTED Bright Court | 4 bedrooms | 4 baths | 1733 sq. ft. | $690,000 Palmilla RECENTLY SOLD River Park Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1267 sq. ft. | $629,000 Riderwood Gardens NEWLY LISTED Caspi Gardens Drive | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1348 sq. ft. | $685,000 Riderwood Terrace RECENTLY SOLD Riderwood | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1321 sq...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
La Mesa Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Avocado Village RECENTLY SOLD Avocado Village Court | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 678 sq. ft. | $433,876 Lake Park NEWLY LISTED Baltimore Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1038 sq. ft. | $549,900 RECENTLY SOLD Baltimore | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1068 sq. ft. | $580,000 Villa Elena RECENTLY SOLD Lowell Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 938 sq. ft. | $459,000
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Asheton Park a vibrant community in Auburn, AL Welcome to the vibrant community of Asheton Park, nestled in the heart of Auburn, AL!  Discover the epitome of Southern charm with the neighborhood’s delightful amenities, including a refreshing neighborhood pool, kiddie pool for the little ones, and a BBQ area perfect for weekend gatherings with friends and family. Immerse yourself in the lush green spaces that dot the neighborhood, offering a serene retreat right at your doorstep. With homes ranging from approximately 2400 sq ft and up, situated on spacious lots, Asheton Park provides the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. Plus, benefit from being part of the prestigious Auburn City Schools district, ensuring top-notch education for your family. Convenience is key in Asheton Park, with ...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
If you are preparing to buy a home, here are five essential steps to increase your odds of becoming a better homebuyer. Are you looking to purchase a home this year? With today’s competitive market, laying the groundwork early is vital. Here are five crucial steps to take sooner rather than later: 1. Educate Yourself Knowledge is power, especially in the fast-paced world of home buying. Understanding the process and being familiar with the mortgage journey can give you the confidence to make informed decisions swiftly. Plus, homebuyer education might open doors to special programs tailored for first-time buyers, making homeownership more accessible. As your buyer's agent, I will provide information on neighborhoods, schools, and available jobs if needed. 2. Determine Affordability It’s...
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By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
FSBO  RENT to OWN  House Summerville 🈚▐►NO BANK QUALIFYING RENT to OWN Brick House 3bd Summerville-CharlestonNEW TODAY!!     NEW TODAY!!Creative No bank financing, Any credit okay!  Brick 3 bed home, available today!✅SCHEDULE Your Visit by Appointment: See Video Tour on Our Website Below  ★ Terms = Savings!★ FREE RENT Month 3 - Boost Your Credit Score ★ Two Rent to Own Options to Choose OR ★ Buy Outright for HUGE Cash Discount  ★ JUST RENOVATED & UPDATED - SEE WEBSITE BELOW★ ★BUY HERE AVAILABLE TODAY!! 3 bd BRICK HOUSE RENOVATED  PLUS LAND – NEW APPLIANCES, Large Yard Front and Back, Trees, PLUS Shed! MORE! ★ ★ BUY HERE WholeSale Buyer Values see:✴️▐► SCInvestmentProperties.com ★ ★★ We contact ALL who Visit Our FREE Preferred Buyer VIPCall Steve for Appointment★ ★See Our BUYER Website B...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Whether you're looking to downsize for simplicity or expand for more breathing room, finding the perfect space to call home is key. 🏡✨ Let's explore homes that fit exactly what you need—be it cozy and compact or spacious and sprawling. Reach out today, and let’s make your ideal living space a reality! #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #bigger #smaller #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #investment #happyhome #happyhomeowners
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
El Cajon Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Artesia RECENTLY SOLD Chambers Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 732 sq. ft. | $385,000 Cottonwood Meadows RECENTLY SOLD Greenwick Road | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 903 sq. ft. | $649,000 Mollison Townhomes NEWLY LISTED Denver Lane | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1344 sq. ft. | $500,000 Mountain View Village RECENTLY SOLD Gustavo Street | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1386 sq. ft. | $595,000 Pepper Drive Estates NEWLY LISTED Sun Court | 3 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1136 sq. ft. | $530,000 Rancho Villas RECENTLY SOLD Calle De Medio | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 913 sq. ft. | $545,000 Stone Edge RECENTLY SOLD Stone Edge Circle | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1110 sq. ft. | $524,999
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
30 Sand Pine Cir, Midway, FL Click here to Get Directions$290000 3 Beds - 2 Baths - 10890 sqft Lot Photos Maps & Local Schools Print 2 hr notice for easy showings** **Heated/Cooled space in garage not included in sq ftg and can easily be removed** This turnkey All Brick property seems to tick all the boxes for convenience and comfort. Its close proximity to the highway, as well as its short commute of roughly 25min to the Capital and FSU stadium, make it incredibly desirable location. And with the added bonus of savings on property taxes and utilities, it's not just a great home but also a smart investment. Plus, knowing that the HVAC system was replaced in 2014 and the property has only been owner-occupied adds to its appeal. Follow This Home
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
University City Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 La Jolla Village Park NEWLY LISTED Mahaila Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1719 sq. ft. | $1,089,000 Verano NEWLY LISTED Charmant Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1037 sq. ft. | $794,900
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Pacific Beach Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Sail Bay Condos RECENTLY SOLD Pacific Beach Drive | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1616 sq. ft. | $3,275,000 The Plaza NEWLY LISTED Diamond Street | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 420 sq. ft. | $450,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Rancho Bernardo Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Morada RECENTLY SOLD Caminito Cantilena | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 716 sq. ft. | $469,000 Provencal RECENTLY SOLD Provencal Place | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1068 sq. ft. | $735,000 Ravenna NEWLY LISTED New Rochelle Way | 4 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1642 sq. ft. | $1,079,900 Savannah Terrace NEWLY LISTED Catarina Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 956 sq. ft. | $779,000 Stony Brook RECENTLY SOLD Wimberly Square | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 906 sq. ft. | $499,900 Vista Del Lago RECENTLY SOLD Caminito Cantilena | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 716 sq. ft. | $469,000 Oaks North RECENTLY SOLD Plaza Otonal | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1431 sq. ft. | $598,000 Eastview RECENTLY SOLD Bajada Road | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1737 sq. ft. | $1,120,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Hillcrest Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Hillcrest Palms NEWLY LISTED 3Rd Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 576 sq. ft. | $459,000 West Park RECENTLY SOLD 6Th Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2450 sq. ft. | $2,248,300
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
College Area Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Chateau Marquis RECENTLY SOLD Lambert Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1348 sq. ft. | $729,000 Collwood Villas RECENTLY SOLD Collwood Boulevard | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 731 sq. ft. | $469,000 Tuscany Place RECENTLY SOLD Rolando Court | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 578 sq. ft. | $335,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Garden Grove Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Cobblestone Creek RECENTLY SOLD Dale Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1165 sq. ft. | $529,900 Greenhouse West RECENTLY SOLD Forest Drive | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1415 sq. ft. | $625,000 Lake Grove RECENTLY SOLD Euclid Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 745 sq. ft. | $379,700 Lakeside RECENTLY SOLD Lakeside Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1017 sq. ft. | $569,900 Lakeside Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 592 sq. ft. | $425,000 New Brookdale RECENTLY SOLD Edgebrook Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 876 sq. ft. | $499,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Irvine Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Alders RECENTLY SOLD Woodleaf | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1022 sq. ft. | $698,000 Avenue One RECENTLY SOLD Scholarship | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1038 sq. ft. | $535,000 Bowen Court RECENTLY SOLD Costa Brava | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 975 sq. ft. | $825,000 Collage RECENTLY SOLD Timberwood | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1388 sq. ft. | $939,000 Corte Bella RECENTLY SOLD Cigliano Aisle | 4 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1929 sq. ft. | $1,250,000 Deerfield Townhomes RECENTLY SOLD Snapdragon | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1109 sq. ft. | $825,000 Four Quartets RECENTLY SOLD Costa Brava | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 975 sq. ft. | $825,000 Lakeshore RECENTLY SOLD Waterway | 4 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2614 sq. ft. | $1,998,000 Las Palmas RECENTLY SOLD Agostino | 3 bedro...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Laguna Niguel Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Breakers BACK ON THE MARKET Shorebreaker | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1063 sq. ft. | $875,000 Crystal Cay RECENTLY SOLD Pearl | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 715 sq. ft. | $499,000 Encore RECENTLY SOLD Fleurance Street | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1516 sq. ft. | $949,000 Foothill Townhomes BACK ON THE MARKET Surf Cove | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1209 sq. ft. | $749,900 La Vista NEWLY LISTED Clubhouse Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 742 sq. ft. | $575,000 Laguna Sur NEWLY LISTED Saint Raphael | 3 bedrooms | 3.5 baths | 3183 sq. ft. | $2,795,000 Le St. Tropez NEWLY LISTED Outrigger Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1660 sq. ft. | $1,277,000 Village Niguel Gardens RECENTLY SOLD Airporter Way | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1494 sq. ft. | $965,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Lake Forest Weekly Market Update April 15th - 21st, 2024 Aliso Creek Villas RECENTLY SOLD Orange Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 977 sq. ft. | $500,000 Salerno BACK ON THE MARKET Chaumont Circle | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 891 sq. ft. | $675,000 RECENTLY SOLD Chaumont Circle | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 883 sq. ft. | $600,000 Serrano Woods RECENTLY SOLD Copper Cliff Court | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1190 sq. ft. | $649,000 Smoketree RECENTLY SOLD Firwood | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1300 sq. ft. | $539,900 Tuscany at Foothill Ranch RECENTLY SOLD Rue De Valore | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1060 sq. ft. | $635,000 Villorio NEWLY LISTED Forest Ridge Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 916 sq. ft. | $649,000
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