Consumer Content

Why You Should Lock in a Mortgage Rate Ahead of the Next Fed Meeting

November 1st, 2021
(TNS)—With the next Federal Reserve meeting set for Nov. 2-3, now is probably a good time to lock in a mortgage rate whether you’re planning a home purchase or a refinance in the near future. It’s likely that the (indirect)...

Real Estate Q&A: What’s the Best Way to Make Sure Sibling Is Taking Care of Mom’s House?

December 27th, 2021
(TNS)—Q: Our youngest sister lives with our 94-year-old mother and takes care of her. The family has agreed that she will be the sole owner of the property upon my mother’s demise. My sister is listed on the house deed...

Real Estate Q&A: How Should Condo Board Tell New Residents About Fee Increase?

November 2nd, 2021
(TNS)—Q: How should the board member interviewing new residents in our condominium association handle knowing there will be a significant increase in the monthly maintenance fees due to the increasing insurance premium? It is a sensitive subject for sellers to...

Mortgage Interest Deduction: What You Need to Know for Filing in 2022

December 28th, 2021
(TNS)—Buying a home has never been more expensive, but if you can find one you can afford, there’s some good news after you move in: You might be able to take advantage of the mortgage interest deduction to lower your...

Real Estate Q&A: What’s the Best Way to Prevent Title Fraud?

November 8th, 2021
(TNS)—Q: Recently, there has been an emphasis on stealing titles and the loss of a home. What is the best way to check on the status of our titles and prevent our properties from being stolen? — James A: Real...

5 Trends That Will Move Mortgages and Housing in 2022

December 30th, 2021
(TNS)—In the Amazon age, consumers are more pampered—and less patient—than ever. Tap your phone and, voilà—hot food from your favorite restaurant arrives in minutes. High-end electronics appear on your doorstep in hours. However, the mortgage industry has yet to deliver...

How to Prepare for an Emergency Situation

November 9th, 2021
You don’t want to find yourself unprepared, especially in an emergency or disaster situation. But this is the unfortunate reality for many households every year. With some advance planning, however, you can ensure your safety. Set up emergency alerts. Emergency...

Real Estate Q&A: I Have No Debt but a Low Credit Score. How Can I Get Association Approval to Purchase Condo?

January 3rd, 2022
(TNS)—Q: I am having trouble getting approved to buy a condo due to my lack of credit. I do not use a credit card and have more than enough money saved up to purchase my new home without a mortgage....

Tax-Efficient Investing: 7 Ways to Minimize Taxes and Keep More of Your Profits

November 9th, 2021
(TNS)—If you’re an investor, be sure to give special attention to the taxes you’ll have to pay on your investments. In many cases, you have ways to legally reduce, defer or even eliminate taxes on your investment gains and keep...

Real Estate Q&A: I Co-Own a House With a Friend. Is it Better to Leave My Share in a Will, or Should I Draft a Deed?

January 3rd, 2022
(TNS)—Q: I own my home 50/50 with a friend. Neither of us has any close relatives that we would want to leave our half of the house. I read your article about owning a property with other people. Would it...
Page 1 of 3123

20/20 Real Estate: Your Vision. Our Expertise.