Helping Home Buyers Acquire Homes at
the Best Possible Price
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME!
Whether you are looking for your first home, your last, or something in between, these buyer resources will help you along your way!
HOME BUYERS
For home buyers, our knowledge of the Greenville South Carolina real estate market is second to none. We know the neighborhoods, the current market conditions, and the opportunities for buyers in today’s market. Our buyer specialists are committed to helping you find the home you want at the best possible price.
HOME BUYING TIPS
Here are a few things to think about as you start your home search. Educate yourself on today's issues before making any offers. The knowledge you gain today can save you headaches down the road!
Many sales agreements mention asbestos by saying "the buyer is aware asbestos may be used in the construction of this home." This can be a little unsettling. Asbestos is a known carcinogen …
Heating and cooling systems are some of the most important investments you'll ever make in your home. Heating and cooling accounts for 44% of your home's energy use
The most important thing to be aware of with insulation, other than the safety issues of urea formaldehyde and asbestos (covered elsewhere), is the R-value, or the insulating factor. The higher the number, the better the insulator …
When purchasing a home, you will need to acquire homeowners insurance. In fact, all lenders will require a policy to be in force prior to funding the loan …
All sellers with homes built prior to 1978 are required to fill out a lead-based paint disclosure form and provide you, the buyer, with a lead-based paint educational booklet in any sale …
You will spot several different types of plumbing systems in any housing market, including your own. Copper, galvanized, rigid plastic, polybutylene, and soft plastic are but a few. Certain systems are more prone to having certain problems …
When you are checking out homes, there are several items in our market you need to be aware of - including a man-made siding. A lot has been said about …
This is a terrific product, as it adds insulation value to the home, not to mention classy looks. However, it can also be a serious and very expensive repair if it isn't installed correctly …
Single pane, double pane, thermo pane, triple pane windows, plain glass, leaded glass, low "e" glass, wired glass, and tempered glass, too. WOW - There's a lot to know …
The type of wiring in residential homes generally depends on when the home was built, where it was built and if it has been updated. In the older homes, knob and tube type wiring was the norm …
HOME BUYERS GUIDE
Avoid the costly mistakes many buyers make and maximize your next purchase when you download these free reports. Titles include, "Eight Insider Buyer Tips", "Closing Costs Explained", and "Save Thousands on Taxes."
These FREE buyer reports will save you time, money and headaches! Each report offers a unique insight into the buying experience.
Download these reports today!
Calling lenders, looking at mortgage loan programs and interest rates can be confusing. There is an easy way to get started! Read this report today!
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It can be surprising to see so many different items on your closing statement. What do they all mean? Find out here!
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Make your next offer count! These eight insider tips for buyers will help you get the most house for the money!
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Before you get in that agent's car, make sure you ask them these important questions! Save both time and money by hiring the right professional!
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Did you know that you can save thousands of dollars when you buy your next home? It's absolutely true! Read this report for money saving strategies!
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How much home can you afford? Access our finance center today and learn about your options. Mortgage calculators, loan programs, and refinancing options included. Click here for more information and link to: schomelend.com
How much home can you afford? Use our finance center to learn about your loan options below. There are several loan programs available, and depending on your credit history, there is bound to be one that is perfect for you. Here are a few examples of the most popular programs offered today:
The fixed-rate mortgage is the most popular mortgage program in use today. Fixed-rate loans offer the borrow a fixed-interest rate for the life of the loan, typically 15 to 30 years. Borrowers have peace of mind knowing that their monthly payment will not change over time.
Conventional fixed-rate mortgages have underwriting requirements established by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, and require certain down payment and debt-to-equity ratios to qualify. Fixed-rate loans are especially attractive to buyers who plan to stay in their homes for more than a few years.
With an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM), the interest rate changes periodically, and payments go up or down accordingly. Rates are tied to an index that reflects the cost of money at any given point in time. Generally speaking, lenders charge a lower initial interest rate for the ARM than for the fixed-rate mortgage.
If you are expecting interest rates to decrease in the future, or if you are trying to maximize your purchase power today knowing your income will rise in the future, then this loan may be right for you. Adjustable-rate loans are attractive for buyers who expect to be in the home for a short period of time.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA), offers loans for low-to-moderate-income home buyers. FHA loans have lower down payments, and have relatively easier requirements than conventional fixed-rate mortgages. FHA mortgages have no income restrictions and even those with lower credit scores may be considered. Past bankruptcy does not necessarily disqualify borrowers from using this program!
In addition, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a zero-down mortgage program. To take advantage of this program, borrowers need to be among those listed as veterans and service personnel in the U.S. military. One of the biggest benefits of this program is that it eliminates the need for private mortgage insurance!
There are often many state and local programs available. These programs offer down-payment assistance and programs for local homeownership. Learn more about these local programs, recommended lenders, and other finance options by contacting us today!