Useful Real Estate Web Sites Here's a short list of some of the more useful real estate and real estate related sites on the web. When you click on any of the links below, you'll see the site you chose, along with a form at the bottom of your screen. Use it to get answers for any questions you might have about anything you find. Remember: It's my job to know more about real estate than any web site! Houston Moving Companies With just a few clicks 123 Movers can find you Fast, Free, no obligation quotes from local & interstate moving companies, auto transport specialists, self storage organizations, international movers and more. Relocation can be a stressful event so let us help you find the moving services you need by searching our directory of licensed movers.
GOVERNMENT REAL ESTATE RESOURCES Try the US Census
Bureau,
FedStats.com, or the
Bureau of
Labor Statistics for useful information. The
HUD web
site is full of resources. Don't forget
Fannie
Mae,
Freddie Mac, or
Ginnie
Mae. Get home buying tips from the
Federal Consumer Information Center.
LOCAL INFO Find your local
Chamber of Commerce or
State Government.
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First Time Buyers >Good Faith Estimates
Several years ago the U.S. Congress tried to protect consumers from a few unscrupulous lenders by requiring all lenders to calculate and disclose the annual percentage rate (APR) you pay on your mortgage loan. But most homebuyers will learn more by directing their attention to the Good Faith Estimate of Settlement Costs (GFE). Although Congress meant well, in practice the APR is not helpful and may be confusing.
If you are looking for a good way to understand your costs of borrowing and/or to compare one lender's costs to another, the GFE is your best bet. Get your lender(s) to provide a written GFE before you commit your mortgage business. When reviewing a GFE, keep in mind that the lender actually controls only a certain portion of the disclosed costs. Other parties typically control costs of appraisal, settlement, title insurance, recording fees and taxes, survey, and the "prepaid" expenses of homeowner's insurance, mortgage insurance, real estate taxes, etc. Review these origination fees, discount points, etc. and you will have the ability to understand the full costs of your proposed mortgage loan.
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What is currently the most technologically advanced way to vacuum your home?
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| A |
The self-propelling Dyson DC06 scans and maps a room with sensors and is controlled by built-in computers that prevent it from falling downstairs. |
See More Real Estate Trivia > |
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