What are buyer closing costs and how much are they? Summary:  Closing costs are all the fees that a buyer is responsible for paying when buying a home and can range anywhere from 1% to 4% depending on the loan program selected.  Fees are higher for FHA loans. These fees DO NOT include the down payment. Closing costs are broken down into the following: Loan Fees Appraisal – this ranges from $350 to...

All of the documentation needed to start a Short Sale is commonly called a “Short Sale Package” and is usually submitted by the seller of the property, the agent representing the seller, or the investor interested in the property. The package usually includes the following items: Cover Letter Authorization to Release Information to a 3rd Party (your Realtor) Seller’s Hardship Letter Seller’s...

I just sent out this letter in hopes that I can assist struggling homeowners with Wachovia, World Savings, or Goldenwest Financial home loans.  While this letter was directed to homeowners in Orange County, CA...I can assist homeowners anywhere in Southern California from Los Angles to San Diego. "Dear Homeowner, Have you been unsuccessful at getting a Loan Mod?  Do you need to sell your home? Are you...

Updated: December 2016 I get calls from the signs and the Internet (sites like Zillow) on my listings from prospective buyers.  After giving them a status update, they often want to ask about other properties. Of course, I offer to help them find a different home if they are not interested in the one I have for sale.  Many of them respond with, “We only want to work with the listing agents.”  I...

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently issued new guidelines and clarified documentation that taxpayers must submit to successfully obtain the federal tax credit for home buyers. KEEP THIS IN MIND • The federal tax credit for home buyers was extended and expanded late last year. Qualified first-time buyers may be eligible to receive a tax credit of up to $8,000 on homes purchased before April 30,...