Author Archives: Buyer Broker

Who regulates the residential lending industry?

Good question and it’s probably just as messed up as it always has been but it all depends on….the type of loan; type of financial institution (e.g., bank; savings and loan; independent mortgage lender/broker, etc,.), what goes wrong, and the … Continue reading

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TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure rules (now) starting (10-3-2015) 8-1-2015

Update July 11, 20-15: New TRID implementation date is October 3, 2015. The new “Closing Disclosure” forms (3 page Loan Estimate and 5 page Closing Disclosure) will replace the Truth In Lending, Good Faith Estimate, and HUD-1 forms. Visit TILA-RESPA … Continue reading

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Is a residential structural warranty worth the paper it’s written on?

Update 7-13-2015: Most importantly, it appears that my former clients’ claim (part of porch/foundation pulling away after 9 years of the 10 years of coverage) filed with a structural warranty company has been approved awaiting estimates. But it is still … Continue reading

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Is a residential structural warranty worth the paper it’s written on?

Tax Assessor – Santa Claus?

Disclaimer: This is just in jest and I have no real opinion on this matter either way…ok local governmental authorities? Just like good ole’ St. Nick, who visits each and every home on Christmas Eve….the County or local municipal Tax … Continue reading

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Georgia Homeowner’s Insurance Rate Comparisons

Did you know you can compare Homeowner’s Insurance Rates online through the State of Georgia website? http://www.oci.ga.gov/ConsumerService/RateComparisons-Homeowner.aspx References to products and services are not a specific endorsement, but the user must perform their due diligence and investigate whether the product … Continue reading

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Hardwood Floors – Do you really, really need them?

Yes … Yes…They really look nice in the photos when you’re trying to sell your home and when your dinner guests arrive for the party…but… You need to make sure your guests with pumps, stilettos, and other high heels take … Continue reading

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How safe are closing attorney databases?

Update April 30, 2015: One attorney found the email address of the fraudster was different from the actual seller’s email address by just one letter – this attempt to defraud the attorney is scary. I recently was informed of a … Continue reading

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How safe are closing attorney databases?

Can you sue someone for poor “workmanlike manner” of your home or lot?

The proper answer is… it all depends…followed by….consult a real estate attorney and seek advice in your case! First, is the company still in business? Second, if so, can you prove it was their fault? Third, do they have the … Continue reading

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Why are you still renting?

Probably several reasons, but if you think you want to buy a home – think and run the numbers again (and again) to make sure it’s right for you. If you are on the fence about renting v. buying, there’s … Continue reading

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Metro Atlanta area Property Taxes and Appeals

Property tax homestead exemptions are due April 1st of each year…so it’s too late for you to file your homestead exemption for 2015. But get ready to challenge the market value of your property once your local governmental property taxing … Continue reading

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