How Well Do You Know the FHA?

In the aftermath of the economic collapse of September 2008, the FHA has risen to an unprecedented level of importance. How well do you know the FHA? Take this quiz to test your expertise! http://www.realtor.org/RMOQuiz2.nsf/fhaquiz?OpenForm Courtesy of Realtor® Mag...

Old Walls, New Uses

Location and a wide array of public financing sources make reuse a great niche. Not everyone has the eye or the interest to sell or develop adaptive reuse, but if you’re passionate about it, “it’s a labor of love,” says Sandra Jarvis, president of...

Business Basics: Property Management Primer

Experts from the Institute of Real Estate Management share their knowledge to start you down the path of management professionalism. Core Skills Every Manager Needs Service, service, service. With building owners, excellent service means careful planning for property...

Pump Up the Bottom Line

With rents falling, tighter spending is the only way to grow a building’s NOI. By Mariwyn Evans | June 2010 Courtesy of Realtor® Mag Want to boost the value of your client’s building? Two words: Cut expenses.   “During economic upturns, owners forget...

17 Tips for Packing Like a Pro

Moving to a new home can be stressful, to say the least. Make it easy on yourself by planning far in advance and making sure you’ve covered all the bases. 1. Plan ahead by organizing and budgeting. Develop a master “to do” list so you won’t forget something critical...

Closing Documents You Should Keep

On closing day, expect to sign a lot of documents and walk away with a big stack of papers. Here’s a list of the most important documents you should file away for future reference. HUD-1 settlement statement. Itemizes all the costs — commissions, loan fees, points,...

Moving With Pets

Moving to a new home can be stressful on your pets, but there are many things you can do to make the process as painless as possible. Experts at The Pet Realty Network in Naples, Fla., offer these helpful tips for easing the transition and keeping pets safe during the...

Common Closing Costs for Buyers

You’ll likely be responsible for a variety of fees and expenses that you and the seller will have to pay at the time of closing. Your lender must provide a good-faith estimate of all settlement costs. The title company or other entity conducting the closing will tell...

What Not to Overlook on a Final Walk-through

It’s guaranteed to be hectic right before closing, but you should always make time for a final walk-through. Your goal is to make sure that your home is in the same condition you expected it would be. Ideally, the sellers already have moved out. This is your last...