AFCI Houses Built Prior to 2002
Electrical receptacles in most homes prior to 2002 do not comply with the most recent requirements for branch circuit protection by an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) device. Although homes are not required to be updated to comply with newly-enacted building safety standards, to reduce the potential danger of electrical fire, as an inspector we recommend that AFCI […]
Three Deadly Mistakes Every Home Buyer Should Avoid
Deadly Mistake #1: Thinking you can’t afford it. Many people who thought that buying the home they wanted was simply out of their reach are now enjoying a new lifestyle in their very own homes. Buying a home is the smartest financial decision you will ever make. In fact, most homeowners would be broke at […]
USDA Loans
USDA loans are housing loans that are backed through the Rural Housing Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Purpose In the wake of the mortgage crisis in 2008 and 2009, lenders have become more cautious, so it’s harder for home buyers, especially first-timers, to secure financing, especially those with low incomes or little money for a down payment. […]
VA Loan Basics
A VA loan is a mortgage loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Like FHA loans, VA loans are backed by the federal government in order to protect lenders against default, an assurance that removes barriers to home buying for prospective homeowners when they attempt to get a mortgage. This loan guarantee has its […]
Settlement Information
You’ve decided to buy a new home — congratulations! This article will help you take this big financial step by describing the home-buying, home-financing, and settlement process. Lenders and mortgage brokers are required by federal law under the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (“RESPA”) to give you this information. You should receive it when applying […]
