A real estate agent plays a crucial role when buying or selling a home. Buying a home is a big deal hence, paying attention to every detail matters. Additionally, having a real estate agent on your side will help you in eluding multiple issues that come along with the home-buying process. If you’re new to the process then read our blog ‘The Dangers of Buying A Home Without a Real Estate Agent’

Paying Exorbitant Amounts of Money

Unless you don’t belong to the real estate industry you’d hardly know about the accurate prices of homes. Furthermore, if it’s an FSBO home (For-Sale-By-Owner) then, it’s likely that the owner is unaware of the pricing. In most FSBO cases, homeowners overprice the house. Reason being, a lack of knowledge and guidance.

When you hire a real estate agent, they offer you accurate information and provide you with a precise house price. They can give you a fair idea post-first viewing and rest after the completion of CMA(Comparative Market Analysis) or comparables(real estate appraisal term referring to properties with characteristics that are similar to a subject property whose value is being sought.). Additionally, they’ll offer you a suitable bidding price for your house that may take months to establish.

Issues with Disclosures

As a mandatory rule, disclosing problems related to a property is crucial whether it’s for an agent or a buyer. Although, in some places the rules may differ for instance in New York there is a rule known as Caveat Emptor. Caveat Emptor or buyer beware translates that a seller is not entitled to disclose known problems, if there’s an issue then it’ll be on you (seller). Although, major problems like structural issues still need disclosure. 

Being Unaware Of The Neighborhood

A good real estate agent will know and understand your needs and the neighborhood that interests you. They will suggest the best neighborhood according to your requirements and value. Furthermore, they will also enlighten you about the market if it’s steep, low, or stable. If you research alone it’s almost impossible to be precise about prices in a city that you’re unfamiliar with. Moving to a new neighborhood is a big deal as you may spend most of your life residing there. Having a real estate agent at your side can identify potential problems in the neighborhood.

Problems while Appraisal

Paying an extravagant amount for a home can be bad, and seeking financing for the purchase is even worse. The case can worsen if you are buying an FSBO home. As none of the sides are represented the buyer eventually ends up paying more. Furthermore, when the home appraisal is run, the bank refuses to approve or sign off as the appraisal value is low and the amount is high. It’s a scary situation as the final price is settled and the seller doesn’t negotiate on the prices further.

Additional Problems

The situations above are some of the nightmares you would want to avoid by not hiring a real estate agent. Adding to the rest there are numerous other risks that you may fall prey to when you try to trade properties.

• Loss Of Time

Researching homes, potential buyers, neighborhoods, and buildings can take a toll on your head. Unless you’re a retired person or are currently unemployed you cannot afford to lose time and property.

• Too Much Paperwork

Real estate agents can be extremely complex with multiple verification processes and paperwork it can get tedious. Laws and regulations can differ from state, city, and region although, it comes inclusive of several documents that require signatures. Every detail counts and if you make any mistake it can cost you a fallthrough or delay.

• Numerous Lost Deals

The real estate market is highly competitive and constantly changing. Failing to make the right move on time can lose you out to other buyers that prepare beforehand. An agent’s job here is to make sure you’re ready to finalize deals and even win buyers/sellers respectively.

Bottom Line

No matter how much you may deny it, hiring a real estate agent will only help you ease the home-buying process. If you don’t have time to deal with a real estate agent you can get in touch with Elite Properties. We are a cash buying company and buy home as-is, we can close a deal in less than a week. This means you can move with the alignment of your timeline without having the need to disturb your schedule. Call us at 718-977-5462 and get to know more.

After a lot of house hunting, you’ve finally found the home of your dreams. A house with the right amount of rooms and a beautiful front yard so, what do you do next? How do you turn yourself into a homeowner from being a potential buyer? It’s simple, you apply for a mortgage to finance the purchase of your new home. As simple as it sounds there’s a lot that goes into applying for a mortgage and one of them is the mortgage underwriting process. If you’re a potential buyer, here’s a Step By Step Detail On Mortgage Underwriting Process.

What is Underwriting?

Underwriting is a critical step in the mortgage approval process where a qualified individual, known as an underwriter, assesses your financial information and determines whether you meet the lender’s requirements for a loan. This process involves a comprehensive review of your creditworthiness, income stability, debt obligations, and the property’s value. The underwriter’s role is to minimize the lender’s risk and ensure that you can repay the loan.

What Is Mortgage Underwriting Process?

An underwriting process merely determines whether a buyer is able to pay back the loan to the lender. It is a process due to the lender, assessing the risk of lending money. The lender here will assess and verify your income, debts, assets, etc. towards the decisive approval for your loan.

What Goes Into Mortgage Underwriting

A mortgage underwriter’s responsibility is to assess the overall risk of the potential buyer, and whether he/she would be able to repay the mortgage. The underwriter evaluates the factors which help the lender comprehend a buyer’s financial condition that including –

• Buyer’s credit score
• Buyer’s credit report
• Property intended to be bought by the buyer

Additionally, the underwriter also aids the lender in determining if the buyer may or may not see a forthcoming loan approval. The motive of this process is to ensure the buyer doesn’t end up closing a mortgage that they can’t afford. An underwriter further will investigate the buyer’s credit history, order an appraisal, verify the income and employment, analyze the Debt-To-Income Ratio, and lastly, verify your payments and savings. 

Here’s what an underwriter does:

A mortgage underwriter is a crucial player in the loan approval process. They are responsible for assessing the risk associated with lending to a borrower and determining if the loan meets the lender’s guidelines. Here are some key responsibilities of a mortgage underwriter:

1. Review Your Credit History: This includes a thorough examination of your credit report, credit score, and payment history.

2. Analyze Your Finances: Lenders typically adhere to federal financing guidelines. For example, Fannie Mae guidelines require borrowers to have a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 97 percent, a credit score of 640 or higher, and a maximum debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of 36 percent. The lender might also incorporate its own criteria. Additionally, they’ll consider specific aspects of your financial situation. If it’s an income-producing property, they might assess whether you plan to occupy the property alongside tenants and take into account your financial reserves, such as investments, assets, and savings.

3. Conduct a Property Appraisal: The approval of your loan is influenced, in part, by the relationship between the amount you’re borrowing and the value of the home you’re purchasing (used as collateral). As a result, the underwriter will request a property appraisal to ensure that the asking price aligns with recent sales of comparable homes in your area.

4. Render the Approval Decision: Once all the necessary reports and paperwork are gathered, the underwriter makes the critical decision to approve or deny your application.

Common Factors That Can Impact Mortgage Underwriting

Mortgage underwriting is a complex process that takes into account various factors to assess your eligibility for a loan. Let’s explore some of the common factors that can impact mortgage underwriting.

1. Credit Score: Your credit score plays a significant role in mortgage underwriting. Lenders use this three-digit number to evaluate your creditworthiness and predict your ability to repay the loan. A higher credit score indicates a lower risk for the lender, making it easier for you to secure a favorable loan.
2. Income: Underwriters carefully evaluate your income to determine if you have the financial capacity to make regular mortgage payments. They will assess your employment history, stability, and the consistency of your income. Generally, a higher income level makes you a more attractive borrower.
3. Debt-to-Income Ratio: Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is another crucial factor in mortgage underwriting. It measures the proportion of your monthly debt payments to your monthly income. Lenders prefer a lower DTI ratio, as it indicates that you have enough disposable income to comfortably handle mortgage payments.
4. Employment History: Underwriters consider your employment history to gauge the stability of your income. They typically look for a steady employment track record, preferably with the same employer or within the same industry. Frequent job changes or gaps in employment can raise concerns for lenders.
5. Property Value: When underwriting a mortgage, the value of the property you’re purchasing or refinancing is also assessed. Lenders want to ensure that the property’s appraised value aligns with the loan amount. A lower loan-to-value ratio (LTV) is generally preferred, as it reduces the lender’s risk.

Understanding these common factors can help you prepare better for the mortgage underwriting process.

What Information Do Underwriters Look at?

Mortgage underwriters analyze a range of documents and information to assess your eligibility for a loan. Here are some of the key items they review:

1. Credit Report: Underwriters obtain your credit report from the three major credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. They scrutinize your credit history, including your payment history, outstanding debts, and credit utilization. A clean credit report with a history of timely payments enhances your chances of approval.
2. Income Documentation: Underwriters review your income documentation, such as pay stubs, tax returns, and W-2 forms. They verify the stability of your income source and calculate your debt-to-income ratio. Self-employed individuals may need to provide additional documentation, such as profit and loss statements or business tax returns.
3. Bank Statements: Underwriters analyze your bank statements to assess your financial health and verify your assets. They look for consistent deposits, large cash transactions, and any red flags that could indicate undisclosed debts or financial instability.
4. Employment Verification: Underwriters verify your employment history and income by contacting your employer directly. They may request additional documentation, such as employment verification letters or recent pay stubs, to confirm your income details.
5. Appraisal Report: Underwriters review the appraisal report to ensure the property’s value aligns with the loan amount. They assess the property’s condition and location to determine its marketability and potential risks.

By understanding the information underwriters evaluate, you can gather the necessary documents and ensure that your financial records are in order. Now, let’s explore the step-by-step process of mortgage underwriting.

Types of Underwriting Categories

There are three main types of underwriting process. Those are: loans, insurance, and securities.

Loan Underwriting

All loans, in some capacity, undergo the process of underwriting. This involves the evaluation of an applicant’s credit history, financial records, collateral value, and other factors that vary based on the loan’s size and purpose. The appraisal duration can range from a few minutes to several weeks, depending on whether human intervention is necessary.

The most common form of loan underwriting that involves human underwriters is for mortgages. This is the type of underwriting that most individuals encounter. The underwriter assesses an individual’s income, liabilities (debt), savings, credit history, credit score, and more, considering their unique financial circumstances. Mortgage underwriting typically has a “turn time” of a week or less.

Refinancing often takes longer, as buyers facing deadlines receive preferential treatment. The loan applications can be approved, denied, or suspended. The most receive “approval with conditions,” requiring clarification or additional documentation.

Insurance Underwriting

In insurance underwriting, the focus is on the potential policyholder – the individual seeking health or life insurance. The medical underwriting for health insurance was used to determine pricing and coverage decisions. These are based on health status, often considering pre-existing conditions. However, since 2014, under the Affordable Care Act, insurers are no longer allowed to deny coverage or impose limitations based on pre-existing conditions.

Life insurance underwriting aims to evaluate the risk of insuring a potential policyholder based on factors such as age, health, lifestyle, occupation, family medical history, hobbies, and other criteria determined by the underwriter. The outcome of life insurance underwriting can lead to approval, along with various coverage options, prices, exclusions, and conditions, or outright rejection.

Securities Underwriting

Securities underwriting, which evaluates the risk and appropriate pricing of specific securities. That are related to Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), is typically conducted on behalf of a potential investor, often an investment bank. Following the underwriting process, the investment bank may purchase (underwrite) securities issued by the company attempting the IPO and then sell those securities in the market.

Underwriting ensures that the company’s IPO will raise the necessary capital and provides the underwriters with a premium or profit for their services. Investors benefit from the vetting process that underwriting provides, enabling informed investment decisions.

This type of underwriting can encompass individual stocks and debt securities, including government, corporate, or municipal bonds. Underwriters or their employers purchase these securities to resell them for a profit, either to investors or dealers (who sell them to other buyers). When multiple underwriters is involved, it is referred to as an underwriting syndicate.

What Is Automated Underwriting Vs Manual Underwriting

A mortgage underwriter has two options to assess the loan application. The first is to do it manually and the other through software. The one with software is known as automated underwriting. An automated underwriting process is much easier and faster than the manual one as a computer evaluates it. Although, it has some limitations that are non-negotiable like inconsistent income, poor credit score, etc. That may be a deal-breaker for borrowers. Hence, in such circumstances, manual underwriting is an easy option. Furthermore, in some situations, lenders combine automated and manual underwriting to avoid the complications of the loan application.

Mortgage Underwriting Process Steps

As explained above in brief, an underwriter evaluates your finances and forwards them to the lender. Although, there are more aspects that need to be analyzed while proceeding with the underwriting process. Some of the aspects are given below.

1. Income

While assessing a buyer’s income the underwriter requires a set of documents as proof to determine if he/she can cover the monthly mortgage payments. As a buyer, you’ll need to submit documents like –

• W-2 (of last 2 years)
• Bank Statements (2 most recent ones)
• Pay stubs (2 most recent ones)

Furthermore, if the buyer is self-employed or has a share in a business. There are some additional documents that need to be submitted. Such as –

• Profit And Loss Sheets
• Balance Sheets
• Personal And Business Tax Returns
• K-1s

Adding to the above, the underwriter will verify if the buyer’s income is as mentioned in the payslips (or any other format where the income details are provided). Also, the underwriter will verify your employment status with the employer as well. 

2. Assets

Your assets help you qualify for a mortgage. As they can sold for hard cash if you fail to satisfy the outstanding loan amount. An underwriter will go through your savings accounts, stocks, and property if any. As the closing amount ranges from anywhere from 3%-6% lenders use assets to make sure the buyer makes monthly payments post-paying closing costs.

3. Credit

It is one of the most important aspects of mortgage approval, is assessing your credit score. An underwriter will evaluate your credit score to understand how well you have managed to repay your past loans. Assessing your credit score helps the underwriter to predict your capacity to repay the loan. 

4. Collateral

The underwriter needs to understand the worth of the house you’re interested in buying. The motive for seeing the collateral risk is to avoid putting the buyer’s money in a house that is not worth it. Hence, as a part of the closing process, the lender will order an appraisal.

Potential Underwriting Consequences

There can be only three possible consequences of the underwriter’s evaluation as given below.

1. Conditional / Contingent Approval

You can submit documents to satisfy the underwriter’s questions. Although, you’ll be clear to close while the documents go through the assessment. One of the most common requests includes verification/proving large amounts of deposit in the buyer’s bank. In such situations, a gift /donation letter from the donor is vital to prove it’s not a loan.

2. Suspension

This means there are significant questions in your file for which a loan officer will work with you closely to resolve the underwriter’s questions.

3. Denial

If the buyers got the loan pre-approved and review of their finances thoroughly, their loan will still be ultimately declined.

How Long Does Underwriting Take To Complete?

The underwriting process takes up to 5-8 days. Although, there are dependencies like your financial condition, loan type, missing paperwork, etc. that may prolong the whole process. Additionally, a point to remember, underwriting is a mere part of the process. A complete closing can take up to 40-50 days in total.

Tips for Smooth Mortgage Underwriting Process

1. Organize Your Documents

The key to a streamlined mortgage underwriting process is to have all your financial documents ready before applying for a loan. Keep the following document ready when you apply:

• Employment details from the past two years (for self-employed individuals, include business records and tax returns)
• W-2s from the last two years
• Pay stubs covering 30 to 60 days before application
• Comprehensive account information, including checking, savings, CDs, money market accounts, investment accounts, and retirement accounts
• Additional income details, such as alimony, child support, annuities, bonuses, commissions, dividends, interest, overtime payments, pensions, or Social Security payments
• A gift letter if you’ve received funds from friends or relatives for your down payment

2. Enhance Your Credit Profile

A lower credit score can make mortgage approval challenging and result in a higher interest rate. Improve your creditworthiness by taking the following steps:

• Pay down existing debts
• Avoid applying for new loans during this period
• Aim for a favorable debt-to-income (DTI) ratio (ideally 36% or less)
• Review your credit report for errors and dispute inaccuracies

3. Consider a Larger Down Payment

The underwriter also evaluates your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, which compares your loan principal to the property’s value. A higher LTV ratio puts the lender at more risk if you default on the mortgage. You can improve this ratio by making a substantial down payment upfront. Borrowing less through a larger down payment increases your chances of qualification. Don’t hesitate to explore down payment assistance programs or seek support from family and friends.

By following these steps, you’ll pave the way for a smoother mortgage underwriting process. Also, well-prepared and maximizing your chances of loan approval.

Takeaways

A pro tip to speed up the process is to keep the documents in place, maintain a good credit score and always put a larger down payment. This way it’ll make the mortgage underwriting process a smooth sail. Furthermore, if you are in a hurry to move out and don’t have time for a traditional home-selling process then sell your house to Elite Properties. We buy houses as-is which means no hassles of legal documentation. We close a deal in less than 7 days and offer you hard cash. Call us today at 718-977-5462 and sell your house fast for cash.

What Are the Steps in the Mortgage Underwriting Process

Mortgage underwriting involves several stages that culminate in the lender’s decision to approve or deny your loan application. These steps are

1. The process begins with completing a loan application and submitting it to the lender.
2. Once your application is received, the underwriter performs an initial review to ensure all necessary documents and information are included.
3. Underwriters analyze your credit report, income documentation, and other financial records to assess your creditworthiness.
4. Underwriters review the appraisal report to ensure the property’s value supports the loan amount.
5. Underwriters may issue a list of conditions or additional documentation required for loan approval.
6. Once all conditions are satisfied, the underwriter grants final approval for the loan.

What are the factors that impact the duration of mortgage underwriting?

Several factors can impact the duration of mortgage underwriting, those are

1. Application Accuracy
2. Lender’s Workload
3. Complexity of the Loan
4. Third-Party Involvement

How Long Does Mortgage Underwriting Take?

On average, the underwriting process takes approximately 30 to 45 days from the time of application submission. However, it’s important to note that this timeframe is just an estimate, and the actual duration may differ.

FAQ

What Are the Steps in the Mortgage Underwriting Process

Mortgage underwriting involves several stages that culminate in the lender’s decision to approve or deny your loan application. These steps are

1. The process begins with completing a loan application and submitting it to the lender.
2. Once your application is received, the underwriter performs an initial review to ensure all necessary documents and information are included.
3. Underwriters analyze your credit report, income documentation, and other financial records to assess your creditworthiness.
4. Underwriters review the appraisal report to ensure the property’s value supports the loan amount.
5. Underwriters may issue a list of conditions or additional documentation required for loan approval.
6. Once all conditions are satisfied, the underwriter grants final approval for the loan.

What are the factors that impact the duration of mortgage underwriting?

Several factors can impact the duration of mortgage underwriting, those are

1. Application Accuracy
2. Lender’s Workload
3. Complexity of the Loan
4. Third-Party Involvement

How Long Does Mortgage Underwriting Take?

On average, the underwriting process takes approximately 30 to 45 days from the time of application submission. However, it’s important to note that this timeframe is just an estimate, and the actual duration may differ.

There are several key advantages of buying a foreclosed home it could be tremendously rewarding as far as investment is concerned. It is crucial to ask questions before purchasing a foreclosed property like – for how long has the property been on the market? You’ll be paying cash or mortgaging? How much money will you have after the purchase? So on and so forth, if you have answers to such questions then you are rolling in the right direction.  It’ll clearly give a heads-up for purchasing it.

We would also like to enlighten you further on the ways to buy a foreclosed property. It comes in multiple forms like short sales or pre-foreclosures, we hope it helps you get the right property.

Buying Foreclosed Property Through Auctions

It is essential for you to understand that foreclosed properties are sold as-is. If the house has shabby exteriors or worn-out floors, the property will be auctioned anyway with prevailing faults.

The home buying process is much simpler in auctions. Here the highest bidder wins even if it is for a small amount. This particular type of bidding is known as an absolute bid. There is another way of bidding also called the reserve bid in which the property has to be auctioned for the given price or else the lender gets the title. The purpose of selling foreclosed properties is to achieve the highest price on them.

If you have made up your mind to buy a foreclosed home through an auction then for obvious reasons, you won’t be able to get your hands on a walkthrough. Paying for an unevaluated property could be a bane for your pocket. There are clear chances you’ll end up paying a lot more than anticipated due to additional repairs that come later in the play. As soon as you buy the house, you are designated as the rightful homeowner of the property and eventually, you stand liable for all the necessary home improvements that occur post-purchasing.

Hence, even if you have bought the property for a cheaper cost through the traditional way, repairs can make your pockets bleed money. Do your thorough research and talk with brokers who are willing to work with you and try not to go into the process blindly.

Buying Foreclosed Property Through Banks

There are mainly two types of foreclosed homes which are –

1. REO(Real Estate Owned) Properties
2. Bank Owned Properties

Both of the above-foreclosed properties are under the ownership of the lender which is mostly the bank, the only way of differentiation is the stage of the foreclosure process. Before you proceed with buying the property at auctions or through banks make sure you get a mortgage.

Whereas buying a foreclosed property through cash could be the soundest option. But it may be not so feasible for many homebuyers. If you have thoughts about buying a foreclosed property with the help of a loan then it is advisable to prequalify. And then get a preapproval letter before you start with the research and proceed with the home buying process. The latest preapproval letter from the lender or bank will aid in providing detail of how much money you can have in the form of a loan. It is based on the lender’s evaluation of your credit score or income.

Buying Foreclosed Property Through Brokers

The professionals know the best, and real estate agents are highly experienced in their stream. They will assess your property inclusive of factors like the current condition of the house, locality, and neighborhood. If you are a first-time foreclosure buyer we advise you to get in touch with a broker. The brokers know the tricks of the trade as far as REO’s come into play. Hiring a real estate agent would surprisingly cut down your legwork and time and steer you to your desired property.

Although it is the most advised suggestion for new home buyers, we would also like to inform you that buying a distressed property through agents could be rash on the budget as you will have to pay the commission costs to him or her which makes it a less fair deal.

Make Cash Offer On House In Foreclosure

There are companies that buy houses for cash in New York and sell it to you post-flipping. ‘Elite Properties’ is one such company that helps buyers and provide necessary services to those who are facing foreclosure, they will also help you in stopping foreclosure. These companies buy foreclosed home and renovate them by providing necessary amenities to the future consumer. They do the primary improvements like sewage repairs and HVAC repairs including some renovation of tiles or ceilings. Furthermore, these remodeled properties are listed in the market for sale at modest prices. Homebuyers wish to buy foreclosed properties at reasonable prices.

Companies that buy houses for cash are saviors if you are running out of time. By paying cash for foreclosure properties, you can buy your dream house without worrying about the renovation. All you get is brand-new properties with no flaws. They will propose the final deal and give you a moving date according to your specifications. All you have to do is finalize the cash offer and get things done. You require no paperwork or any kind of legalization at all.

Last Words Before Purchasing A Foreclosed Property

Given above were the four ways of buying a foreclosed home. After reading the blog above, you will be able to make better decisions for yourself. It will take you closer to buying your dream home even if it is a distressed property. If you are residing in New York City and wish to buy and sell properties then get in touch with ‘Elite Properties’ they will provide you with the exact solutions for all your real estate crises and guide you through the right path.

The home buying process has many different aspects to it which are linked together. One has to conceive it thoroughly and get to know all the fundamentals in the world of real estate. One of the major element of it is ‘Property Chain’.

Here, we will be explaining, everything about property chain. Scroll down to dive in deep.

What Is A Property Chain?

To be explained into simple words, property chain is a full-fledged system where people buy and sell properties from one person to another, meaning; when you a buy a home from someone, they’ll be moving to a new house, which eventually means even they have purchased the place from someone so on and so forth, it continues. This type of transaction is known as an upward chain.

A property chain mainly consists of two people or two parties (i.e. the sellers or buyers). Further, it can increase the number of people involved. The linking starts with an individual who yearns to buy a house and ends on the one who only wishes to sell and not buy these are two different things. The case is different when you buy the home for the first time; first time buyers’ chain only moves upward in the same direction reason, you do not have to sell a property for buying a new one.

The transactions or chains consist of many people namely a chartered surveyor, mortgage lender, appraiser, real estate agent and many more, which means more addition to the rest. It is required for everyone to fulfill their due-diligence in a timely manner so that the process doesn’t lack behind. If anyone from the chain fails to do so the progress of the process will decline to lead to a slower pace of the sale process.

Points To Consider While In A Property Chain

As the home sale process has many chores that have to be achieved in the given time frame, like getting an approved mortgage with specified principles including the closing date; the process can be time-consuming and lengthy. While conducting these steps, there is a high chance of missing out on things which could delay the deal.

Provided below are some of the points you could keep in mind while transacting properties-

• A pre-hand mortgage with agreed principle
• Making a deal and agreeing upon property SSTC. (Agreeing upon SSTC means the offer proposed by the buyer has been accepted by the seller but hasn’t completed the legalizations or paperwork.)
• Hiring a solicitor
• Arranging legal surveyors
• Finalizing the mortgage with the lender
• Exchanging agreements and closing dates

Ways Of Skipping Property Chains

Here are some ways out to skip the property chain –

Choose a first-time buyer, as they are not in chain.

Sell your house fast for cash and move in for a rented lodging. By doing this you are eluding yourself from the chain. This could be an advantage for you while making a deal, as a chain-free buyer, you’ll be enticing more sellers.

If you have your finances in place and are looking for multiple options in property, always opt for upward chains which are short. Example: if the seller has a second property and doesn’t plan to move in it voila, you are sorted.

If you have to sell your property, a real estate developer may ask for a part-exchange. Here the developer will purchase your property as-is to make it a fast-paced process. They will be buying home in an as-is condition you are not expecte to keep hopes of high returns.

If you are in a tearing rush, you can find a seller who agrees upon the move-out date regardless of they have a property previously bought or not. Sellers in some cases eventually end up agreeing to move for a semi-permanent stay as they want to skip the chain.

Why Chains Fall-through?

There are many possible reasons for a chain to fall-through, according to a survey around three cases out ten i.e. 28% have witnessed major fall-through while purchasing properties. In many cases, the major fall through occurs from buyers side and the rest remaining were sellers who pulled out the deal as the process is apparently prolonging and energy-consuming.

There are many other reasons combined for a property chain to collapse –

• When a buyer or seller changes their mind for not continuing with transactions
• Surveys revealing major property catastrophes
• Buyer or seller loses jobs, falls ill or any other personal reasons
• The buyer cannot make up to the required mortgage loan for what they previously agreed on.
• Legalizations and paperwork stays held or is prolonging

As a piece of advice, it is highly recommended- if you are going through from any of the above situations you should sort them prior to finalizing or even making an offer. If you are on the seller’s side make sure your real estate agent does his due – diligence and assures that the buyer is not suffering from any of the reasons stated above.

How To Break-free From The Property Chain

When you are in a chain, losing a purchase would cost you thousands of dollars. Breaking the chain is the possible thing you could do, there are three ways to break the property chain.

Sell Before Buy Later – here for simultaneous purchases you don’t have to negotiate on the price or time and as a bonus, the seller will reduce their prices reason being they will be selling the property with a tag of chain-free.

Obtain A Bridging Loan –bridging loan allows you to purchase your dream home. If the sale process prolongs then repayment could be pricey over the duration.

Extension Of The Current Mortgage –collecting money over the present property will help you contribute to deposit money for your new place or you could rent a part of your residence to meet the mortgage payment.

Concluding Lines

Hope we were able to counter your queries about property chains if you want to know more about them or any real estate related crisis we will be happy to help with a solution. If you are residing in New York then get in touch with us at ‘Elite Properties ’, we’ll be happy to cater to all your queries.

One should have immense knowledge about the home buying process, as it has a lot of misconceptions and confusion. Since you are a newbie, this surely is going to be a complicated process. The knowledge you conceive about the real estate market differs because it is an ever-evolving market. Buyers would likely fall into the pothole of delusions, without comprehending the facts about the home-to-buy process.

Therefore, here we are providing you with some of the myths and facts about home buying.

A Near Perfect Credit Score for Home Buying

First off, a credit score is nothing but a number. You as a buyer will be evaluated for verification. From that, the eligibility for buying an asset is confirmed. Your credit score shows the managerial aspect of your finances. It has nothing to do with home buying. Credit scores are evaluated on factors like your revenue source, assets, and employment history which has your salary statement on track. So when you have this myth on your mind that you should necessarily have a perfect credit score, you have a piece of good news below.

The myth-buster here is that – There is a fundamental understanding that if your credit score is high you will be able to repay the debts much easier.  Hence, you are seen as a loyal remunerator. Ultimately you are not on the financial uncertainty from the creditor’s perspective. In fact, there are some loans under the special category for people who have low-end credit scores.

20% Down Payment Is a Must

Rationally, when you are buying a property, you’ll have to pay a minimum of 20% of the total amount of the home, again a misconception that has a hidden fact that people should know. If you do so, that is paying the ideal percentage, you are saving a lot of money in the form of additional interest, which you are liable to pay covering the span of your loan.

20% is recognized as an ideal percentage to put down for Home Loan. But it isn’t mandatory when you are applying for an FHA (Federal Housing Administration) Loan or VA(Veterans Affairs) loan. You can put down as less as 3% – 3.5% on the desired property. You should be thorough with the terms and conditions as these are Government-backed loans and come with higher restrictions on credits and other finances. Whereas, there are some cases where there is no down payment required at all if the buyer is qualified.

30-Year Loan, Best Policy

A 30-year loan is the most convenient option for home buyers, this is the most common myth among buyers. Homeowners opt for a particular loan category. This strikes down the increased interest rates and provides you with a lot of time to repay the outstanding debts.

But again as a buyer, the actual fact is; that it is not compulsory if you have your finances in place. You can pick a 10, 15, or 20-year fixed-rate mortgage. Choosing this option will cut down your time but, it will also increase your monthly payments. In such a scenario, you have to be confident about the feasibility of repayments that would strike down your other expenses.

Home Buying For the First Time Is Unapproachable

There is a myth around people for endless years that buying a home for the first time is nearly unapproachable. But the reality is if you have a reliable company and good guidance home buying process is as smooth as butter.

Definitely, first time home buying is one of the most complex phases of your life. Buying a home is every individual’s dream and to turn this dream into reality ‘Elite Properties’ in New York will help you in the journey. We have extended knowledge of home buying and the local housing market. To that, we add to it our real estate agents are genuine and hold expertise in all the real estate-related problems which make the process of buying a home effortless.

It’s Only About The Monthly Payments

There is a big misconception that buying a home only revolves around monthly payments, which is a lie. Whereas the truth is, when you are planning on an estimate, there are many other factors that come into play. It may be inclusive of monthly payments like added upfront closing costs, insurance, property tax, maintenance, and many more. When you consider all of the above, you would be able to calculate the expenses and make a realistic budget.

Your monthly mortgage payments also have various components to them like principal, interest, escrow payment, and Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). These are the components that make up the total of your monthly payments.

Buying Over Renting Is the Best Option

As the myth revolves around it states, renting sounds like the best option around, you might want to recheck once. The fact is – When you buy a home, you would be paying homeowner’s insurance which is higher than the renter’s insurance. You although won’t be entitled to pay for the maintenance and repairs whatsoever, which is a better deal. It is considered essential to weigh both options before landing on a specific decision. As renting a home could be more economically feasible. But buying a home on the other hand would be a stable investment. It does not require upfront charges for extra luxury.

The Conclusion

One could be easily duped by the home buying myths and facts. But our objective is to drive homebuyers on the right path and provide them with their dream property. Whether you are a first-time home buyer or you want to sell your house for cash, Elite Properties, caters to all the real estate problems. And we can give you the most accurate and helpful solutions.

Now, you can decide the best thing is for you, and rest assured you won’t fall for fallacies. This will help you buy the home of your dreams.

As we have taken a step in 2019, there are a bunch of questions that jump in every individual’s mind. Similarly applied to the real estate sector as well, do we see innovative opportunities coming in the market or it will be a downfall in the economy? As 2018 was a year full of developments and technologies, let us have a look at some real estate forecasts and predictions for the year 2019.

New Constructions

The real estate market is broad and demanding, and it becomes difficult for the Government to meet the requirements of the civilians. As there is a massive rise in the allowance of building permits, it is highly possible for us to see new constructions gaining numbers in a majority.

A study from the experts reveals, that the percentage of single-family permits issued nationwide has progressed by 8.4% compared to the year 2017 till 2018. The housing market is a gradually retrieving, and the process of filing of permits till receiving the end product consumes time, the market will eventually go through the lack of supplies leading to less listed homes.

New Technology Usage

Use of technology entices buyers. How does this work? Things like virtual staging, walkthroughs, and adoption of VR headsets – where people soak in the 3D visualization and experience of being in their dream home, capturing top shots of the property and landscape through drones – provides a 360-degree view and easy listing on MLS, using Chabot’s on websites and web applications for real estate which aids in saving money and time.

Added to these there is also a trend of Blockchain (is a stage where transactions or trades are carried, through digital currencies) which is growing immensely all over the globe, where people trade in Bitcoins and Ethereum (these are types of Cryptocurrencies that are operated on Blockchain). This platform is beneficial in many conducts as it offers smooth and transparent transactions and trades across the world digitally which involves less leg and paperwork. Here, you ultimately exempt the mediator and close deals directly with the third party.

Prefabricated Homes is the Future

Let us explain to you what are prefabricated homes in the first place – prefabricated houses resemble a 3D jigsaw puzzle, they are manufactured in parts offsite and then assembled onsite on the preferred location. Prefabrication is a construction technique which is fast and cost-effective compared to various other construction methods. Prefabricated homes are designed employing durable materials, offering high performance in concerns with the sustainability.

Facilitated entirely with amenities and luxuries prefabricated homes are a great choice to dwell for shorter terms.

Millennials, Above All the Generations

If your question is, which category of generation is flourishing as new buyers or investors in the real estate sector? The answer would be millennials. The millennials are currently the largest generation on the bar which has the maximum number of first-time home buyers in the real estate industry, calculated to be around 66%.

Millennials are smarter and much knowledgeable in comparison to the baby-boomers and Gen Xers when it comes to the home buying process. With the help of available technologies, IoT and apps millennials examine thoroughly to keep things streamlined before taking any step that might take them down in the pit of loss.

Substantial Increase in Mortgage Rates

A report from Mortgage Bankers Association states that the mortgage rates are currently around 4.9% (that is in the year 2018) and would stay the same in 2019 as well. The above-mentioned studies are based on the 30-year mortgage rates, as the rates would remain the same for a leading half of the year, they might also tend to jump thereby increasing from the current 4.9% to 5.1% as the year ends. According to the real estate market, it is a healthy growth but, as far as the buyer’s market is concerned, it would be an evident downfall.

According to a real estate forecast that was issued for the year 2018 (July) stated, the prices will continue to rise for the year 2019. As the past year experienced a rise of 8.1%, the experts foretold the rise will progress by 6.5% by the time summer arrives for the year 2019.

Sellers Over Buyers

As mentioned above, the increase in mortgage rates and a shortage of inventory recorded in the year 2017-2018 will generate a deficiency in the housing markets. All of the above will create an irregularity in trade, supply, and inversion of investing in real estate. Hence, the prices of properties will rise in 2019 affecting the affordability of buying homes.

In contrary, it is also a golden opportunity for those who are looking for an investment as there are many properties listed on the bar, you get hands on your dream property, which would eventually make you a smart buyer in the seller’s market. But the final word, 2019 is going to be a seller’s market and a gold mine for the ones who are listing their property.

Decide For Yourself

Addressed above were some real estate trends and real estate forecasts in 2019 that we might get to witness. The real estate market is very fragile and has a drift to fluctuate we will advise you to choose your purchases carefully, and not fall in the pothole of errors.

Else, if wish to buy or sell house in NY, you can reach a reliable real estate company like ‘Elite Properties‘ who will be happy to help you and sort your queries for the housing market.

Are you planning to buy a home for the first time or are you among First-Time Home Buyers? Well, that’s undoubtedly a smart financial move. However, you may have to face certain challenges such as finding the right location or financing your purchase during the initial phase.

So, before you take a step ahead in achieving your American dream of homeownership, you should gain some practical knowledge of investing in real estate. It will help you get a bird’s eye view of the current market situation, ensure you won’t end in smoke, and make your abode journey easier.

Considerations Before You Take the Plunge

Here are some basic yet important questions you need to answer before proceeding. They will positively help you navigate in the right direction.

1. What Kind of Property Will Meet Your Needs?

Buying a home for the first time can be a test of your patience and forbearance. Don’t get us wrong, but finding a home that meets your needs is actually not a cinch. It’s better you start the journey by making a list of all the features/amenities you expect in your dream home.

Let’s say your goal is to have a spacious home located in the central area of NY with a small backyard. Then, you can either opt for brownstones or townhouses. If you want a cost-effective property with low maintenance, walk-up housing, which is the most common housing in New York, would serve your purpose. You have to figure out things according to your preferences and standard of living.

2. Do you qualify for the Mortgage You Expect?

During the home-buying process, it’s crucial for you to know how much mortgage you qualify for. You may plan to buy a home with a net worth of $450,000. However, the lender may not provide more than $250,000. Why?

The lender will analyze certain factors such as your total income, job security, and outstanding debts prior to assigning you the capital. They’ll directly say no if your debt-to-income ratio depicts that you’ll not be able to afford the mortgage payments. So, it’s a wise step to calculate your credit before applying for a mortgage loan.

3. Do You Have a Trusted Source Who’ll Guide You throughout the Process?

As we mentioned earlier, buying a home can be a daunting task. A trusted source can prove to be a boon for a first-time house buyer because no matter how much groundwork you do, there will always be something where you’ll feel the need of seeking professional help. A real estate agent can provide you with a number of options that match your expectations and are within your reach in terms of the price range. In addition to that, they can also help you get a loan, complete the paperwork legalities, and streamline the process. Therefore, you must contact an experienced real estate agent in NY to make your transition a hassle-free one.

Home Buying Process

Here are the five significant steps that can demystify the entire home-buying procedure.

1. Pick the Right Type of House

Contradictory to the common mindset, there are a plethora of affordable real estate properties for sale in NYC. Make sure to do thorough research on such properties, online as well as by paying a personal visit.

First, check out the houses on the internet by exploring the property listing pages of top real estate companies in NY. This way, you’ll get the description of available houses including their high-quality images.

Once you’re done, choose the top 10 or top 5 houses of your choice and contact the real estate agent for further details. Sort out the best property and move on to the next step for fulfilling your desire.

2. Explore Your Secure Financing Options

Assistance programs that offer low down payments and discounted interest rates for first-time buyers are available across different states of NY. Therefore, you must discuss the different types of mortgages with your real estate agent. Investing your time in exploring secure financial options may seem like a mentally draining process but, it will surely pay off in the long run.

3. Make an Offer

Many people get confused during the negotiation and end up frustrated. To avoid such situations, talk turkey to the real estate agent and decide a final price that you can offer for the property. Your real estate agent will then proceed and keep your proposal to the seller.

4. Consider Doing a Home Inspection

Once the seller agrees to your proposal, consider doing a home inspection by personally visiting the house. You can also hire a professional home inspector to save yourself from any kind of pitfalls. If you find something major that needs to be repaired, ask your seller to either do the needful or deduct the price from the final offer. First-Time Home Buyers should be very careful with this.

5. Close the Deal

You’ll need to sign a ton of legal papers while closing the deal. Carefully read the ‘legal jargon papers’; if everything falls into place, go ahead and sign the agreement to seal the deal.

Mistakes to Avoid as First-Time Buyer

Buying a home for the first time is indeed very special. Even the slightest mistake while buying a home can result in failure. To verify the following things first and then take a decision.

1. Looking for Home First and Loan Afterwards

This is the most common mistake that first-time buyers do and regret later. As a first-time home buyer, you need to keep in mind that the property might fall into foreclosure or short sales if you fail to repay the loan within the specified period. So instead of daydreaming about the home, face the practical world by visiting a lender’s office first.

2. Not Paying Attention during Home Inspection

All that glitters is not gold. Therefore, paying undivided attention during the home inspection is necessary. Make sure you access everything including the drainage system, roofing, plumbing, and electrical wiring.

3. Fraudster Alert

Don’t fall into the honey trap of fraud sellers who offer you unbelievable deals. The modus operandi of fraudsters is to take advantage of your ignorance. Stay cautious and understand all the clauses while you sign the agreement. The best way to avoid real estate fraud for First-Time Home Buyers is to seek professional help. It will significantly minimize real estate-related risks.

The Bottom Line

In a nutshell, the more informed you are beforehand, the less stressful you’ll feel during the decision-making process for First-Time Home Buyers. Do follow these tips sincerely and we’re sure you’ll get your dream house in New York soon!