Found 3 blog entries tagged as First time home buyers.

Even if you’re not planning to sell your home right away, updating and maintaining your home shows you take pride in owning it.

Clean the exterior. Dirt, grime, and cobwebs can accumulate on your home’s exterior. Use a pressure washer to remove the buildup and give your home a fresh look.  Wash the windows inside and out, clean gutters and doors – including your garage door.

Paint. Painting is a great way to boost your homes curb appeal.  Update your home with a coat or two of the same colour or choose a new shade.  If you choose to pant the same color you can scrape a small swatch of paint to take to the paint store to have it matched.  Also paint your doors and trim in a complimentary shade. Don’t forget to prep the surface area before you start…

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The total cost of buying a house goes beyond just its price.  Your Real Estate Agent or Lawyer will be able to tell you exactly how much you’ll have to pay.

LAND TRANSFER TAX | .5-2% of value
When a home changes hands, many provinces and a few municipalities, charge a property transfer tax, or title transfer fee.  It can add thousands to your purchase price. (First time home buyers qualify for rebates or exemptions in some provinces)

APPRAISAL FEE | around $500
Your lender may ask you to have a home appraised to confirm its market value.  Fees vary depending on a property’s value and complexity.

LEGAL FEES | $500-$800
A lawyer or notary will help protect your interest by reviewing your purchase agreement, searching the property titles, and…

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There are many reasons why you should consider owning a home, here are ten reasons to seriously consider if homeownership is for you:

To quit renting – This is probably one of the biggest reasons people consider.  Why contribute to someone else’s mortgage when you could be paying off your own? With the current market increase in rent, it could even be cheaper to own.

Security – You don’t have to worry about your house being sold from under you, where rent can substantially increase without notice; forcing you into debt or even out of your home.

Investment – The price of real estate continues to increase.  Purchasing real estate is one of the safest long term investments a person can make.  A house appreciates in value over the years. Once…

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