Ken Rosen: Take Advantage of Low Interest Rates Now!
The low interest rates we’re currently enjoying will be higher by the middle of 2010, according to economist Ken Rosen. I attended yesterday’s First Republic…
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Home Buyer Tips
Final Word on Federal Tax Credit
President Obama extended the $8,000 tax credit last week, allowing it to remain in effect through next spring. Based on several conversations and questions I’ve…
Recovery Act Hits the Streets
Nancy Pelosi’s office has mapped out the areas and businesses that will benefit from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that President Obama signed into…
SoMa Within Reach for First-Time Home Buyers
There was a time when one- to two-bedroom condos and lofts were out of reach for those who could afford up to $600,000. I know…
Empty Nesters Get Tax Benefits
Empty nesters and retirees take note: There could be some very nice tax advantages in your next home purchase. If you’re ready to downsize and…
Get a Deal on a Loft
If you’re a first-time home buyer looking for a nice space in San Francisco for up to $700,000, I’d like to suggest you consider a…
Realtor Association Steps Up To the Plate
You’ve been reading a lot about the various home buyer assistance programs being offered through the government. But I wanted to share information about a…
Get On Your Walk Score
If you’re considering buying a home in a neighborhood in which you’re not sure about access to services, restaurants, parks and transportation, check out Walk…
Seeking “Spot” Condos for FHA Loans
FHA loans are about the only ones out there these days that will let buyers put down less than 20%. In some cases, it’s possible…
Conforming Loans Lead the Way
Conforming loans are about the only option these days for those prospective buyers who have less than a 20% down payment. Though this loan amount…
FHA Loans Cover Condos
Though Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans cover single-family homes and multi-unit buildings, these loans include condos, too. The loan amount maximum is $625,500, and you…
Lower Credit Score = Better Deal
Housing prices are softer, but you can get yourself an even better deal when it comes to a loan program if your credit score is…
Hayes, Arterra Appeal to First-Time Buyers
I’m in the process of assisting one of my first-time home buyer clients with a purchase at Arterra, the city’s first LEED-certified green complex in…
Pocket Listings Get Popular
Now that our San Francisco market has softened, sellers and the listing agents they hire are trending toward a new strategy: pocket listings. This is…