Coming towards the end of summer mortgage rates have ticked down a little bit but still higher than recent past.  Buyers still remain on the sidelines in most cases as prices for homes are still stubbornly high.  Many sellers are staying on the sidelines as well as there are fewer homes to buy for them after they sell and they have a low interest rate on their current mortgage.  Combine that with election season and people have reason to pause.  Check out this month’s round up for some great insights into the real estate market.

NAR Lawsuit Settlement

The National Association of Realtors or NAR recently settled a lawsuit against them where they were being accused of overcharging commissions when buying or selling a home.  NAR opted to settle the lawsuit and as a result there will be some changes as Paul Sian explains.  Home buyers, sellers and real estate investors need to understand the changes so that they can better prepare when transacting in real estate.

Selling an Inherited Home

Selling a home can be a challenge and requires plenty of preparation, adding to the mix a home that has been inherited can up the stakes.  In this article by Bill Gassett he provides an in depth guide for selling an inherited home.  Selling a home that has been inherited usually involves going through probate court and getting certain permissions prior to even listing for sale.  There are also numerous legal and tax implications that need to be considered and explored in this article.

Expert Insights for Real Estate Buyers, Sellers and Investors

Whether one wants to buy or sell a home or is looking to invest check out this article from Vicki Moore where she pulled together thoughts and articles from some knowledgeable real estate experts.  Real estate being one of the most expensive purchases one will make in their life time having a good understanding and in-depth knowledge will pay for itself.  Topics covered include homeowner’s insurance, selling a home via probate process, home financing challenges, understanding CAP rate when investing and more.

2024 Conventional Mortgage Loan Reserve Requirements

As part of buying a home with a conventional mortgage the buyer has to show sufficient reserves of money as part of the application process.  In this article by Eric Jeanette he explores what are reserves and what are the reserve requirements for conventional mortgages in 2024.  Reserves are an important part of the factors that lenders consider in terms of risk, financial stability of the borrower and more.  He additionally looks at what the sources of funds for reserves can be.

Renting a Truck From Home Depot

Whether for moving certain supplies from the hardware storeto moving household items you can rent a truck from Home Depot that will cover a variety of different uses.  In this article from Kevin Vitali he provides a guide for renting a truck from Home Depot and what things need to be considered as part of the rental process.  From understanding insurance options, pick-up process, drop off process and more.  This is a helpful article providing tips for a good place to get a rental truck.

Entitlements in Real Estate

In this article from Joe Boylan he explores the reasoning and meaning of entitlements in real estate.  Entitlements refer to approvals from local government authorities.  Things like zoning approvals, conditional use permits, variances and more.  Joe explores at the variety of situations where these approvals will be needed, who to work with to get approvals and the value of having these things done by the book.

The Wrong Way to Make an Offer on a Home

Buying a home is an involved process that requires the best understanding of each step.  The offering price  is only one aspect of making an offer on a home as Karen Highland explores.  The buyer needs to consider closing dates, contingencies, seller motivations and more.  She provides some tips on how to make an offer on home that will lead to success.  The article provides excellent suggestions which can lead buyers down the right path for buying a home.

FHA vs. VA Mortgage Loans

When buying a home, the option to use an FHA or VA mortgage may be available depending on meeting certain qualifications.  Both programs have options for low down payment and more favorable debt to income ratios.  In this article from Luke Skar he provides a detailed look of the difference between the FHA and the VA mortgage loan.  Buyers should be researching all options when it comes to getting a mortgage as the savings over the life of the loan can add up.

What other real estate related articles have you found to be helpful?  Feel free to share in the comments below.

Real Estate Roundup for August 2024 was provided by Greater Cincinnati Area Luxury Realtor Paul Sian of United Real Estate Home Connections. Paul is a licensed real estate agent in the states of Ohio and Kentucky and has over 17 years of experience. Do you have a home you are ready to sell now in Greater Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky? Be sure to contact me now!