Wednesday 23 May 2007

Buying and Financing a Manufactured House: Pros & Cons

If you are currently in the market for a new home, perhaps you have considered manufactured housing. What is a manufactured house? It is typically a home that is built completely in a factory (commonly known as a mobile home). When it is finished, it is moved to the site where it will be installed.

One of the biggest cons to buying this type of a house is that you can almost never get a traditional mortgage. Lenders do not like to finance these types of houses as they could be moved at any time. Also, it is hard to build equity in a manufactured home (for reference, equity is the property value minus the debt). Many owners of manufactured houses do not own the land their house is sitting on, and land is a big part of equity. Manufactured houses simply do not tend to go up in value. They are also geared towards lower income levels, and sometimes there are inferior building materials used. These are a few of the reasons why it is hard to get a traditional mortage on a manufactured home.

The pros are that manufactured houses are very affordable, and provide people without a lot of income with a way to own their own home. More and more people are buying manufactured homes and permanently installing them on land that they own. Because of this sometimes they are able to qualify for a traditional mortgage.

If you are planning on considering a manufactured home, arrange for your own financing (do not necessarily go with the offer the seller of the home will try to talk you into). You will usually get a better deal arranging for financing yourself. Lots of financing tips are available on www.mortgage-refinancing-online-guide.com. Also, avoid "all in one packages" that include everything (installation, financing, home-site, etc). You can get a more competitive price on your home by shopping for just the home. Try to find a good site to install your home on, before you buy the home. Also, consider buying rather than renting the site where your home will be.

Manufactured homes have both pros and cons, and are often a good housing solution. Just be sure you get all the facts and options before you sign any contracts.

Casey Smith worked for years in the mortgage industry and often contributes to the popular website http://www.mortgage-refinancing-online-guide.com


For More Info


http://hot-uk-real-estate.blogspot.com/


http://eu-realestate.blogspot.com/


http://seized-real-estate-propertyinvetment.blogspot.com/

Friday 18 May 2007

Choosing The Right Community To Buy A House In


The old “location, location, location” phrase might seem clichéd but it holds true as much today as it did when it was first coined. The right community can enhance future resale value while a not so desirable one can lead to rates plummeting in no time at all.


When choosing a community, it is always advisable to choose a city that has a stable, thriving economy. Take the time to check out the state of the local community. Are the roads and pedestrian ways well maintained? Are the stores and retail centers full of shoppers? Is there evidence of community pride exhibited in the locals?
Find out if the local fire services and police personnel are efficient and closely situated. Above average crime rates will lead to a fall in appreciation. Check to see if the city has adequate youth sports facilities and parks. Community events such as those for children and teenagers will have a bearing on the overall appeal of the house.


Even if you do not have kids nor plan to have any, it is imperative that you check the local school system. This is because your potential buyers in the future might have children of school going age and the lack of good schools nearby might put a damper on your sale. Find out if there are enough schools for the local population. Also, check to see how well these schools fare on standardized tests. You can get this information online.


Find out the rate of property taxes. If they seem higher, you can be reasonably sure of a higher level of maintenance.
About the writer: Nigel Kerry is an American free lance writer born in Los Angeles, California. Kerry writes about Apply Credit Online and Online Credit Card Applications, as well as refinance mortgage loan.


For More Info



Thursday 17 May 2007

Home Equity Loans - What You Need To Know

Equity loans were created to help out homeowners to puff up the equity on their house in order to make profit, or else set up one more loan on the home. Home prices grow over time, making the home increase worth everyday that it is around. A Home's equity then is the entire value of the property, minus the total the homeowner is paying on the home.

If you set up an equity loan, you must bear in mind that the loan is intended to terminate your first mortgage and then initiate payment on the pending loan. Lenders ask for borrowers to pay a minimum of 5% upfront deposits, as a guarantee. The larger portion of deposit will lower your interest rates and mortgage payments in most situations.

Equity loans then are borrowed money and the homeowner signs over collateral, which in most cases is the home. There are advantages of taking out equity loans, mainly if the borrower is in debt and needs money to pay off his home. The collateral,however, is the garnishing product if the borrower cannot repay his mortgage. Stated in other words, if the borrower fails to make repayment on the equity loan, then the bank may possibly repossess the house.

So, the approach for homeowners is to borrow money by establishing an equity loan to minimize the monthly mortgages. Many homeowners may pay $500 per month on their mortgage; and if they unearth the suitable lender, they will set up an equity loan to repay $180 per month. The reduction is large, but what the homeowner is doing is securing a 30-year term loan, paying below $200; hence the homeowner is really paying twice for the same house.

Mortgages come in very many styles; thus if you are contemplating refinancing your house, you can benefit by looking for the bottom rates and best deals. If you are choosing an equity loan, you could want to inquire about overpay and underpay loans, where you might get huge sums of cash back on your mortgage. Additionally, you will actually want to print out contracts and compare them side-by-side to determine what advantages you will gain by picking one legal agreement over the other.

Sydney Johnson gives you more free information at 20 Year Home Equity Loan Home page. Search other helpful articles at- 20 Year Home Equity Loan Sitemap. Click here http://www.homeequityloanbestrate.com
A search for a perfect home in Las Vegas is often an exhaustive exercise that requires careful planning and research. Las Vegas has many housing options ranging from single family homes to investment homes, luxury high rise condominiums, townhouses or even homes for rent.
Housing in Las Vegas is in high demand due to rapid growth of immigration, a strong economy, booming tourism and the industries that support the tourism. Many investors are opting for real estate purchases in the area.

Also, with no state or corporate income tax and low vacancy rates, Las Vegas is a favorable option for real estate investments. Fast appreciating property prices, a good business environment, connectivity, and other community services make the package very attractive. The Las Vegas Nevada Metro is an upcoming attraction that adds to growth and property value appreciation. Some of the Las Vegas area builders with a quality reputation are KB Homes, Richmond American, Centex, Pulte and American West.

A number of high-rises with condominium complexes can be spotted in the skyline of Las Vegas, as the crowded downtown area becomes a city going vertical. These apartment-style accommodations open up an entire new range for new home hunters. With a price range starting at $400,000, they are selling quickly. Excellent examples of such complexes are the Trump Tower, a 64-story, hotel and tower on Las Vegas Boulevard; the Park Avenue Luxury Mid Rise condos that hold 20 residential buildings; the MGM Grand; the Conrad Hotel which boasts of an enviable central location; the Sky Las Vegas and The Cosmopolitan, among others. This line of homes blends recreation with a taste of comfort and a touch of style.

Outside of downtown Las Vegas, there are many other rental and purchasing options. With careful research and planning, anyone can find their perfect home in the Las Vegas area.
New Homes provides detailed information on New Homes, New Homes in Las Vegas, New Home in Colorado Springs, New Homes in Florida and more. New Homes is affiliated with Portable Metal Buildings.

More info sites:
http://eu-realestate.blogspot.com/
http://hot-us-real-estate.blogspot.com/
http://hot-uk-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Wednesday 16 May 2007

Austin Texas Real Estate Profiles: River Place




Immediately east of the 620 intersection, off 2222 in Texas, River Place is a planned community that offers an exceptional value. Building in the area began in the mid 1990s and development in general began in the early part of the decade. Homes for sale from that era feature large lots, well-maintained buildings and mature lots. However, River Place still has some lots for sale, so that it is possible to buy new construction homes in the community. Whether you want a home with plenty of character or whether you want to infuse character into your own home by customizing the building to meet your requirements, River Place can offer you what you have been seeking.


The River Place real estate market features mostly single family homes with some high-end condominiums. Homes range in size, amenities, and style, so that you can find the exact home that suits you needs. Once you buy that ideal home in this superb community, you will also be able to access the many amenities and facilities that River Place has to offer. River Place offers the all the fine dining, special social events, gyms and fitness facilities – not to mention luxurious tennis and golf opportunities – that anyone could want. When you live here, having fun and enjoying an active lifestyle are second nature. Thanks to an exceptionally planned location, you can enjoy maximum comfort and convenience right in your own backyard.


River Place also offers an excellent location. Downtown Austin and the Arboretum are both only a 15 minute commute away. This places key recreation options and career opportunities just minutes away from River Place residents. Lake Travis and Lake Austin are also only a short drive away, so that you can enjoy both hill country and lake views whenever you desire them.
With innovative planning, great facilities and amenities and a location that is hard to beat, River Place offers everything that a home buyer could want. The River Place real estate market is strong and there are many homes to choose from, so why not start looking for your River Place dream property today? Before you know it, you could be moving into a home that enhances every aspect of your life.


Eric Bramlett currently manages his River Place Guide, his River Place real estate company’s website, & his River Place realtor Guide.

Tuesday 15 May 2007

Property Hot Spots - Hats Off To Panama

In the steamy South Americas, much is being made of Brazil and its samba infused, sun soaked property market which continues to go from strength to strength. But neighbouring Panama, the so-called crossroads of the world, is quietly entrancing thousands of would be investors with its considerable charms.

Small in statue but mighty in terms of natural beauty, the entire country is only ten times the size of Devon but manages to pack in to its 78,000 sq km volcanoes, mountain ranges, coastlines lapped by two oceans, lush rainforests and miles of golden beaches.

The cost of living is enticingly low with the government going as far as marketing property in Panama as a perfect retirement solution. Two years ago, they offered retirees from all around the world amazing benefits packages including substantial discounts on accommodation, health care and state utility bills in order to encourage foreign immigration.

As one of the most stable nations in Latin America, Panama has historically enjoyed close ties with the USA, leading to a well developed infrastructure and English speaking doctors. Familiar brand names and US franchises also abound, bringing a welcome reminder of home to this tiny pacific paradise.

Property prices in Panama are rising at a respectable rate, making it a sure bet for investors wanting to re-sell or rent out their purchases. The varied inland and accessible coastal regions mean property owners are spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding on a location.

Panama City is a modern metropolis, stuffed to bursting with breathtaking mansions, lavish casinos and bustling department stores. But when the urban sprawl gets too overpowering, the rainforest is just ten minutes away and the country’s three national parks within easy reach.
City living comes significantly cheaper than asking prices in American and much of Europe. A three bedroom condo in the Dupont Towers costs around £150,000. And in Panama, you get a lot for your money – restricted to three condos per floor, every apartment in the Dupont building benefits from ocean views, panoramic floor to ceiling windows, spacious terraces and ceramic flooring.

The ultimate in self indulgence, the Megapolis project on Balboa Avenue offers privately owned apartments with all the benefits of a hotel. Showing the South Americas can do luxury pampering just as well as its northerly neighbours, Megapolis investors have the option of a condo hotel package, ensuring apartment rental when the residence is not in use, a hotel room only purchase with revenues for unit rental or an included apartment option for all the benefits of hotel living in a privately owned apartment. And the cost for full-time access to valet parking, hotel concierge, room service, golf facilities and an onsite spa? Just £75,000.

Neighbouring the Megapolis development, the spectacular H20 Tower At The Ocean takes luxury living a stage further. Located on the bay front, close to the colonial city of Casco Viejo and within easy reach of the cosmopolitan city centre, the H20 building is set to make full use of its ultra desireable address on Panama’s most sought-after avenue. With 35 stories and 135 luxurious residences, the spectacular Tower At The Ocean comes complete with superlative views and cutting edge, contemporary living. Prices start at around £90,000.

For more information about investment property in Panama, visit http://www.davidstanleyredfern.com
David Stanley Redfern is the director of David Stanley Redfern Ltd, an overseas property specialist. David works closely with developers in more than forty countries and oversees the David Stanley Redfern Ltd. education programme which lectures individuals and organisations on property investment. David Stanley Redfern Ltd is AIPP accredited.
:http://eu-realestate.blogspot.com/
http://hot-us-real-estate.blogspot.com/
http://hot-uk-real-estate.blogspot.com/

Thursday 10 May 2007

Invest in Alabama Real Estate Foreclosures





If you are looking for a good investment, then you might want to take a look at the Alabama real estate foreclosure market. There are some very good deals to be made with foreclosures, and these homes are on the market right now. Normally, the bank just wants to unload them and get some of their money back. They are not into the real estate business. So, if you want to get a house for cheap, then maybe the Alabama real estate foreclosure market is the way to go.


There are many different counties in Alabama, some of which may have better deals than others. The following is a list of counties in Alabama which currently have foreclosed properties for sale: Elmore, Montgomery, Lowndes, Perry, Cullman, Blount, Saint Clair, Coosa, Dallas, Hale, Bibb, Jefferson, Chilton, Autauga, Winston, Lee, Russell, Randolph, Chambers, Cleburne and many more…..You can get free foreclosure lists from foreclosure companies and see the entire foreclosure market at once.


You can use the foreclosure property for either your own personal property, or for rentals. This would be an excellent source of income, especially from Alabama foreclosures. These foreclosures are very cheap, as the cost of living is very cheap in Alabama. I personally have bought a foreclosed home before. I used it as my personal home. I did most of the repairs myself, and the larger jobs, I had contracted out. I only had 3 weeks to get everything done to move in, but it was all worth it. In the end, I owned the house for 2 years, and walked away with a $40,000 profit from it. I would definitely do it again.


With the housing market on the bubble, and the number of foreclosures on the rise, now is the perfect opportunity to invest in the Alabama real estate foreclosure market, and get yourself set up for the future.
Visit Foreclosure Facts to get your Free List Of Alabama Foreclosed Homes


Side Note:

For More on Real Estae Visit