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Home Buying

Welcome to the ActiveRain Home Buying section. This is the place where you'll find comprehensive information on everything connected to purchasing a home – and we mean everything.


What exactly goes on in a home inspection and how is it different from a home appraisal? Curious about what it takes to purchase that foreclosure you've had your eye on? You'll find out how to do it right here. Look around: the professionals at ActiveRain have the information you need.


ActiveRain is the top real estate social network in the world. So, while you may find articles about purchasing a home on other websites, only at ActiveRain do you have the opportunity to read the words of wisdom from over 300,000 real estate industry professionals. From real estate agents to lenders to home inspectors and stagers -- that's a lot of brain power and we've harnessed it, right here at AR.


What are you waiting for? Everything you need to know about home buying awaits you on the following pages!

Recent blogs on Home Buying
By Jean Richer, Straight Talk on Real Estate
(Keller Williams Realty Inc.)
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, and yes, it can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or just need a refresher, I’ve broken down 14 essential steps to help you navigate the home buying process like a pro.Here’s a quick preview:✅ Know your credit score – Your financial report card plays a big role in your mortgage rate.✅ Get pre-approved – Know your real budget and shop with confidence.✅ Understand the costs – From closing costs to future repairs, know what you’re getting into.✅ Define your must-haves vs. deal-breakers – Be realistic about what you need and want.✅ Work with the right realtor – Don’t settle. Your agent should be a trusted advisor.✅ Avoid being house poor – Just because you’re approved for more doesn...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
House hunting can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to find the one that checks all your boxes. 🏡 That’s where I come in! I’ll help you cut through the noise, narrow your options, and guide you toward a home that truly fits your needs. Let’s make this process easier (and more fun!) together. 📲 Reach out when you’re ready to get started! #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #icanhelp #a061125 #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #dreamhome
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By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
✴️►CASH SALES MOBILE HOMES SELL NOW Move Later Summerville Charleston ✴️►► WE BUY-SELL MOBILE HOMES CASH Sell Now Stay Until You Move Summerville Charleston 🈚►►WE BUY MOBILE HOMES AS IS for Cash -YOU CLOSE on YOUR Schedule Remain Until You Move (Summerville Charleston) 🈚►► MOBILE HOMES CASH SALES Stay Until You Move Summerville Charleston 🈚►► MOBILE HOMES CASH SALES Stay Until You Move Summerville Charleston  ★ ★✴️►SELLERS We BUY Houses CASH OFFER Charleston-Summerville ★ ★ SELL HERE See Our SELLER Website Below to SELL Us Your House - Mobile Home or Land for CASH:   Sell Us Your Property(s):  ✴️►► GetFairCashOfferSC.com ★ ★✴️▐►We BUY - SELL for CASH Mobile Homes Charleston-SummervilleSELL Get Fair Cash Offer LAND HOUSES MOBILE HOMES Summerville★  BUY - SELL - RENT TO OWN - WHOLESALE ★ ...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Real Estate
(RE/MAX Associates)
In today's dynamic housing market, many potential buyers are contemplating whether to purchase a home now or wait for interest rates to decrease. While the allure of lower rates is understandable, several compelling reasons suggest that buying now could be a more advantageous decision. 🔑 Key Reasons to Buy Now1. Home Prices Are Likely to Rise Even with higher interest rates, home prices have continued to climb. In April 2025, prices increased by 1.4% nationally, despite a record $700 billion in listings. Waiting for rates to drop could mean facing higher home prices, potentially offsetting any savings from lower interest rates. 2. Less Competition in the Current Market Higher mortgage rates have led to decreased buyer demand, resulting in increased inventory and longer listing times. Th...
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By Nathan Fitts, The Leading Name in Real Estate
(Nathan Fitts & Team )
Living in North Georgia doesn't get any better than this!  This is your chance to own a private mountain compound and mini farm.  This type of property is hard to find so take advantage of this opportunity.  This one is priced below appraised value!  Nestled overlooking gorgeous rolling green pastures w/ valley views & panoramic mtn views, this private 10 acre compound is a picture perfect setting.  Consisting of approx. 7 ac cleared in pasture this property is the perfect mini farm for your farm animals & horses. “The great outdoors” is your backyard playground in this prime location is surrounded by the protected Cohutta Wilderness Region of over 37,000 acres w/ 90 miles of trails great for hiking, backpacking, & horseback riding following the nearby Jacks & Conasauga Rivers. This 3 B...
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By Nathan Fitts, The Leading Name in Real Estate
(Nathan Fitts & Team )
 The glistening, calm waters of Lake Chatuge become hard to resist in spring every year when the termpearture starts getting warmer. These pure waters with the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains invites a sense of escape from life’s daily bustle. Nestled between Clay County, NC and Towns County, GA, this hidden gem offers endless water recreation options. It is a favorite vacation spot for many reasons, but Lake Chatuge surely tops the list. Whether you’re into boating, kayaking, fishing, swimming, sight-seeing or lakeside camping, Lake Chatuge offers something for everyone. History of Lake ChatugeNamed for a neighboring Cherokee settlement, Lake Chatuge is a manmade reservoir steeped in World War II history whose shorelines touch parts of both North Carolina and North Georgia. The pi...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2662 Heathrow, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$375,000 4 Beds - 2 Baths - Photos Maps & Local Schools Print This bright, beautiful 4 bedroom home on a culdesac in the Glen at Golden Eagle features vaulted ceilings, stainless appliances including a Bosch dishwasher and many custom extras. Roof replaced in 2018 and termite bond included. This property has smart smoke/CO detectors, an Ecobee thermostat and touchscreen security system with Skybell camera and garage door access. This open concept home has lots of natural light, double rainfall showerheads in primary bathroom, new wood shelving in laundry room, and fresh paint throughout most of the house. Privacy fenced yard backs up to Golden Eagle and features a covered patio area, key lime tree and a great space for children...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2058 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$400000 4 Beds - Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Remodeled Duplex in the heart of Tallahassee! This charming and cozy duplex has been tastefully updated with ample parking and easy, walkable access to Midtown, local parks, and shopping. Great opportunity for investors or homeowners that want to live on one side, rent the other. Outstanding opportunity for income production for gameday weekends, too! Follow This Home
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
JUNE IS NATIONAL HOMEOWNERSHIP MONTH 🏡🗝️REASON #5 TO OWN A HOME, NOT RENT YOUR HOME EQUITY GIVES YOU SOMETHING TO BORROW AGAINST IF NEEDED As you build equity in your home, you’re doing more than just increasing your ownership stake. You’re also creating a potential financial resource that can be tapped when large or unexpected expenses arise. Your home equity can serve as a valuable source of funding during times when you may not have sufficient cash available. Common uses include covering a child’s college tuition, managing significant medical expenses, financing major home renovations or additions, or addressing other essential financial needs. While it’s generally unwise to use your home’s equity for non-essential or frivolous purchases, utilizing it for necessary and meaningful exp...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Localist Realty)
Long Beach Weekly Market Update June 2nd - 8th, 2025 838 Pine RECENTLY SOLD Pine Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 930 sq. ft. | $499,000 1140 Pacific Ave BACK ON THE MARKET Pacific Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 2 baths | 731 sq. ft. | $375,000 Bixby Riviera BACK ON THE MARKET Riviera Circle | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1927 sq. ft. | $875,000 Casa Verde RECENTLY SOLD Gladys Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 714 sq. ft. | $439,000 Orange Villas BACK ON THE MARKET Orange Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1040 sq. ft. | $539,950
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Scott has a excellent blog on this subject. Timing and a little bit of luck play a crucial role when buying a new home while selling your old one. While some aspects of the process are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to increase the chances of a smooth closing, perhaps even on the same day! Here is some essential information to guide you through the process of buying and selling a house simultaneously.   Assess the Local Housing Market  The state of the real estate market in your area is a pivotal factor in timing your home purchase and sale correctly. Whether you're moving within the same town or across the country, understanding the market you're dealing with is vital. The time it takes to buy and sell a property can vary significantly based on local real estate cond...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
When a home sits on the market longer than expected, the price is often the first thing blamed. While overpricing can be a major factor, it's far from the only one. One of the most common culprits is poor presentation. Buyers today form opinions within seconds, often based on online photos before they even step foot inside. Homes that are cluttered, outdated, poorly lit, or in need of deep cleaning may leave a negative impression. Listing photos that are dark, grainy, or unprofessional can stop interest before it starts. Accessibility and Showings Another big reason homes don’t move quickly is limited accessibility. If a home is difficult to show, whether it’s strict showing hours, last-minute cancellations, or requiring too much advance notice, buyers may simply pass and move on to mor...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
For those moving to Arizona seeking to buy real estate, many are not aware that the State of AZ is an open range state. There are numerous states that have open range laws with many west of the Mississippi.Here in AZ, ranchers lease land from the Bureau of Land Management. This allows the cattle to roam freely without fences.  In some instances, ranchers have large acreage ranches which are fenced.With open range cattle here in Golden Valley, AZ and Mohave County, AZ driving the paved and dirt roads is sometimes dangerous for both drivers and cattle. Speed limits of 45 mph may seem ridiculous slow because there are no homes in sight or oncoming traffic. However, the desert brushes often hide cattle and suddenly you have a large bull, steer, cow or calf in the middle of the road.Several ...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Welcome to our real estate blog! In this guide, we will walk you through the process of finding your dream home in 2025. With the rapidly changing landscape of real estate, it's important to stay informed and equipped with the knowledge needed to make the best decision for your new home.Understanding Market TrendsThe real estate market is constantly evolving, and it's essential to stay updated on the latest trends. In 2025, we are seeing a shift towards sustainable and smart homes, as well as an increased focus on community living. We will explore these trends and how they may impact your search for the perfect home.Setting Your BudgetDetermining your budget is a crucial step in the home buying process. With the help of financial experts, we will provide valuable insights on how to asse...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Making an offer is a big step—but sometimes, the seller has a few tweaks in mind. 🤝 That’s where a counteroffer comes in! It’s all part of the negotiation dance, and I’ll help you navigate it with confidence. From first offer to final signatures, I’ve got your back. Ready to start house hunting? Let’s chat! 🏡 #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #icanhelp #a061025 #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #happyhome #dreamhome
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
JUNE IS NATIONAL HOMEOWNERSHIP MONTH 🏡🗝️REASON #4 TO OWN A HOME, NOT RENT YOU WANT MORE LIVING SPACE TO MOVE AROUND Are you starting to feel like that proverbial "goldfish in a bowl?" Is your current space is feeling tighter by the day? It might be time to consider purchasing a home of your own. If expanding your living space is on your mind, here are some important factors to consider: Family Size:Is your family growing — or likely to grow soon? Will you eventually need to accommodate an elderly parent? Be sure to choose a home that will suit your needs not just now, but for the next 7 to 10 years, so you don’t find yourself outgrowing your space too quickly. Lifestyle:Do you love to entertain? Host frequent out-of-town guests? Do you have hobbies or interests that require dedicated sp...
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On May 19, 2025, Audrey Ference published a very good helpful interesting report on Realtor.com for list of questions to ask a home inspector before, during, and after a home inspection.    Critical questions to ask before a home inspection.1. What do you check?2. What don't you check?3. What do you charge for a home inspection?4. How long have you been doing this, and how many inspections have you done?5. Can I come along during the inspection?6. How long will the inspection take?7. Can I see a sample report?    Critical questions to ask during a home inspection.1. What does that mean?2. Is this a big deal or a minor issue?3. What's that water spot on the ceiling, and does it need a repair?4. I've never owned a house with an HVAC/boiler/basement. How do I maintain this thing?5. What ar...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2058 Thomasville Rd, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$400000 4 Beds - Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Remodeled Duplex in the heart of Tallahassee! This charming and cozy duplex has been tastefully updated with ample parking and easy, walkable access to Midtown, local parks, and shopping. Great opportunity for investors or homeowners that want to live on one side, rent the other. Outstanding opportunity for income production for gameday weekends, too! Follow This Home
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
2662 Heathrow, Tallahassee, FL Click here to Get Directions$375,000 4 Beds - 2 Baths - Photos Maps & Local Schools Print This bright, beautiful 4 bedroom home on a culdesac in the Glen at Golden Eagle features vaulted ceilings, stainless appliances including a Bosch dishwasher and many custom extras. Roof replaced in 2018 and termite bond included. This property has smart smoke/CO detectors, an Ecobee thermostat and touchscreen security system with Skybell camera and garage door access. This open concept home has lots of natural light, double rainfall showerheads in primary bathroom, new wood shelving in laundry room, and fresh paint throughout most of the house. Privacy fenced yard backs up to Golden Eagle and features a covered patio area, key lime tree and a great space for children...
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
A Rare Opportunity to Build in One of Somers’ Most Sought-After NeighborhoodsIf you’ve been searching for the perfect parcel to build your dream home in Northern Westchester, your search may be over. Welcome to 54 Hallocks Run—a newly listed 1.84-acre lot in the highly desirable Somers Chase area, now available for $219,000.This property is tucked at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, surrounded by custom homes and natural beauty. Unlike many parcels in the area, this lot offers access to the Somers Chase water and sewer district—a game-changer for ease of development, design flexibility, and long-term value. Forget the hassle of drilling wells and planning septic systems. This lot gives you the freedom to focus on your vision.With nearly 2 acres of usable land, this site offers both pri...
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