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Side’s Hilary Saunders discusses the evolution of brokerage models

Housing Wire

While she believes this transparency was a good thing for the seller, it harmed the buyer as many agents began to claim that they would represent buyers for free — which has certainly played a role in the commission lawsuits that are currently plaguing the industry. “We

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Going to Extremes

Appraisal Buzz

Add to this rising replacement costs and legal fees, increased government regulation, inflation, and fraud, and companies are bleeding about a billion dollars every three weeks. Areas more exposed to such risk are likely to see increased volatility in valuations.” The post Going to Extremes appeared first on Appraisal Buzz.

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Two Southern banks complete mortgage eNote transfer

Housing Wire

Elaine Marshall, North Carolina Secretary of State, described it as a “win-win-win for home buyers, the business sector and the government sector in making the mortgage closing process less time consuming, less stressful, and even more secure.” Full e-Closings reduce the use of paper, legal fees, mailing and courier costs.

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Title insurers reckon with attorney opinion letters

Housing Wire

Prior to the advent and widespread use of title insurance, before taking title to a property, the buyer required that the title be free of any rights, interests, liens or encumbrances of others for which the buyer would be responsible for.

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ALTA: Protecting property rights with title insurance

Housing Wire

Having owner’s title insurance means the cost of defense and legal fees that typically would be the homeowner’s responsibility instead are paid by the title insurer. The buyers purchased title insurance, which turned out to be an excellent investment.

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5 Negotiation Secrets Smart Buyers Use to Get Better Deals

Berkshire Hathaway

Besides the purchasing price, your budget should also include other costs such as renovations, structural and environmental assessments, downtime during transitions, legal fees, realty commissions, taxes, and contingencies. You should also consider the financing options available for your investment property.

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First-Time Homebuyers Incentive Changes: What You Need to Know

D Fritz Appraisals

The First-Time Buyers Incentive can lower your monthly mortgage payments. As explained by the National Housing Strategy, the First-Time Home Buyers Incentive is a program that lets you borrow 5% or 10% of the sticker price of a home. There are two options, 5% or 10%, depending on what you qualify for as a buyer.

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