Tips & Tools

How to Explain Closing Costs

September 29, 2017

Ever had a first-time homebuyer confused over closing costs? Prepping clients for these important figures can help ensure smooth sailing on closing day—not to mention a rock-solid client-agent relationship with the potential for extra referral business! Below you’ll find some quick basics you can go over with your clients. Even experienced homebuyers may not know everything that’s lumped into the category of closing costs, and might appreciate the extra clarification from their trusted real estate agent. What are closing costs? Closing costs, also called…

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Tips & Tools

What Your Client’s New-home Warranty Can Do for You

October 25, 2016

A new-home warranty offers obvious advantages for your clients—and some not-so-obvious opportunities for you! If you’re used to selling resale, you’ve seen that once your clients have the keys, they’re generally stuck with the bill if they have a home problem four or six months down the road. With a new home and all-new appliances, not only are buyers less likely to have a problem in the first place, but they also enjoy the peace of mind a home warranty and manufacturers’ warranties afford. Here…

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Tips & Tools

5 Tax-time Conversation Starters

April 8, 2016

Talking taxes with your clients can be tricky—after all, federal and state tax laws can change at any time—but that doesn’t mean you should stay mum on one of homeownership’s great financial advantages. Here are just five tax-related topics that could interest your clients: Some costs associated with buying a home may be tax deductible, such as points paid to lower a mortgage interest rate, upfront private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums, loan-origination fees, VA funding fees and USDA guarantee fees. Federal and state tax deductions…

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Tips & Tools

How to Help a First-time Buyer

December 15, 2015

As a real estate professional, you’re probably well aware of the potential equity and tax benefits renters could be missing out on, but they might not understand them. That’s why some renters who could benefit today from homeownership still remain on the fence. Even when they decide to jump in the market, everything about the homebuying process is entirely new. That’s why first-time homebuyers need professional advocates like you, and we’re here to help put a plan of action together. Here are six points to…