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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 Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Temecula Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Auberry Place RECENTLY SOLD Emerson | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1408 sq. ft. | $485,000 Reflections at Temecula Lane NEWLY LISTED Strawberry Tree Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1340 sq. ft. | $478,000 RECENTLY SOLD Sunflower Way | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1437 sq. ft. | $515,000 Temecula Creek Village RECENTLY SOLD Taylor Lane | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1101 sq. ft. | $420,000
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By Glen Bigness, Since 1986 a trusted real estate resource.
(Premier Plus Realty)
2310 70th Ave NE Naples FL 34120"A rare 20.43-acre private equestrian estate in Naples, Florida, offering a fully fenced horse-friendly environment with a stocked 3-acre lake, riding arena, barn, modern home, high-speed internet, and room to create a multi-generational family compound—all within approximately 30 to 40 minutes of downtown Naples and Gulf beaches.The strongest features are:✅ 20.43 acres✅ Private end-of-road location✅ 3-acre stocked lake✅ Riding arena with irrigation✅ 4-stall barn expandable to 6 stalls✅ Fully fenced✅ Xfinity internet✅ Naple’s Florida address✅ Ability to build additional residence✅ No HOA Fees✅ Livestock friendly✅ Close to Picayune Forest trail systemThis creates a rare combination:"A true working equestrian estate with modern connectivity and easy access ...
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By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
🈚▐►DISCOUNTED 2 RENT to OWN SWMH 3b 2b FULL SIZE Summerville-Charleston🈚▐►RENT to OWN SWMH or CASH DISCOUNT FULL SIZE Summerville-Charleston🈚▐►DISCOUNTED RENT to OWN  SWMH FULL SIZE Summerville-Charleston🈚 ▐► BUY CASH FOR GREATER DISCOUNT ★This is a FSBO  For Sale by Owner  -  Eliminates Approximately 9% Closing Fees🈚▐►DISCOUNTED RENT to OWN FULL SIZE SWMH 3b 2b Summerville-CharlestonIN PERSON SHOWINGS  AVAILABLE FOR YOUCALL  / TEXT Steve to Visit in Person  843- 881-7171BUY OUTRIGHT for HUGE CASH DISCOUNT or Rent to Own 🈚▐►DISCOUNTED 2 RENT to OWN SWMH 3b 2b FULL SIZE Summerville-CharlestonIN PERSON SHOWINGS  AVAILABLE FOR YOUCALL  / TEXT Steve to Visit in Person  843- 881-7171SEE Property #305W FULLY RENOVATED 3BD -2BA SWMHComes with a Large Yard Lot  Rent, Yard Work and Maintenance I...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Lake Elsinore Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Brookview Terrace BACK ON THE MARKET Canyon Hills | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1274 sq. ft. | $399,888 Canyon Hills | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1274 sq. ft. | $409,900
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By Buzz Mackintosh, “Experience, reliable, leadership”
(Mackintosh REALTORS)
This beautifully maintained and renovated rancher offers peace and privacy just five minutes from Frederick. Situated on a picturesque 4.5 acre setting with possible subdivision potential, the property features mature trees, walking trails, a stream, and a charming spring house.       The recently renovated kitchen showcases custom Amish crafted walnut cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ceramic tile flooring.     The spacious living room features hardwood floors, a bay window, and a cozy fireplace. There are three generously sized bedrooms, all with hardwood flooring, along with two recently remodeled bathrooms. The large walkout basement includes a half bath, a second fireplace, abundant storage space, and ample room for future expansion.     Additional hi...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Hemet Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Seven Hills NEWLY LISTED Seven Hills | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1568 sq. ft. | $299,000 Terra Linda Village NEWLY LISTED Sunrise | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1067 sq. ft. | $360,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Corona Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Altia RECENTLY SOLD Almeria Street | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1593 sq. ft. | $572,500 Laing's First Edition BACK ON THE MARKET Indigo Hills Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1380 sq. ft. | $519,000 Market Street RECENTLY SOLD Owens | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1640 sq. ft. | $550,880 Owens Street | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1638 sq. ft. | $479,900 Sage Canyon NEWLY LISTED Del Mar Way | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 650 sq. ft. | $379,000 Santiago BACK ON THE MARKET Toyon | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1478 sq. ft. | $570,000 The Gallery RECENTLY SOLD Forum Way | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1110 sq. ft. | $505,000 Village Grove Cluster NEWLY LISTED Border Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1074 sq. ft. | $525,000
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
The financial choices you make today can help shape your homebuying options tomorrow. 🏡 Small steps like strengthening your credit, paying down debt, and building savings can put you in a stronger position when the right home comes along. A little preparation now can create more confidence and more possibilities later. If buying a home is one of your goals, send me a message and let’s talk about your next steps! #thehelpfulagent #houseexpert #a061526 #finances #investment
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By Andrew Mooers | 207.532.6573, Northern Maine Real Estate-Aroostook County Broker
(MOOERS REALTY)
On the real estate hunt for simple low cost ranch home with Maine land? Many think of Maine as "Vacationland".Camping, boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, skiing, trail riding just a few of the outdoor fun options. There is no doubt about it, Maine is outdoor fun all day long.The pleasant reminder "Vacationland" stamped on the bottom of every Maine license plate to help you never forget. Buying a Maine home with land for an affordable price... those kind of real estate listings are very popular.Join forces with other outdoor recreation enthusiasts you know for one very economical way to enjoy Maine vacations.Many pool their resources, buy vacation properties in Maine jointly.Do you know folks you are related to, that you work with or just enjoy outdoor recreation?Anyone that likes huntin...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
HOA Neighborhood or No HOA at All? What’s Your Choice? If you’re searching for Auburn homes for sale, one question almost every buyer eventually asks is whether they want an HOA neighborhood or no HOA at all.There isn’t a right or wrong answer.It depends entirely on your lifestyle, priorities, and personality.Some buyers love the consistency and amenities that come with a homeowners association.Others want complete freedom and would never consider living in an HOA community.After helping buyers and sellers throughout Auburn and Opelika for more than 20 years, I’ve seen happy homeowners on both sides of the debate.What Is an HOA?An HOA, or homeowners association, is an organization that helps manage and maintain certain aspects of a neighborhood.Depending on the community, HOA fees may ...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Riverside Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Buena Vida NEWLY LISTED Everton | 3 bedrooms | 1 baths | 1152 sq. ft. | $429,000 Georgetown Square RECENTLY SOLD Polk | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1481 sq. ft. | $470,000 Palmilla RECENTLY SOLD Massachusetts | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 604 sq. ft. | $249,000 Riverwalk RECENTLY SOLD Riverpass Court | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1532 sq. ft. | $599,999 Valle Vista RECENTLY SOLD Maxwell Court | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1409 sq. ft. | $430,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Murrieta Weekly Market Update June 8th - 14th, 2026 Arroyo Viejo II NEWLY LISTED Via Las Flores | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1500 sq. ft. | $515,000 Montego Bay NEWLY LISTED Buccaneer Bay | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 961 sq. ft. | $398,000 RECENTLY SOLD Buccaneer Bay | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1016 sq. ft. | $305,000 Pelican Bay | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1387 sq. ft. | $1,495 Murrieta Villas RECENTLY SOLD Via Princesa | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 993 sq. ft. | $369,000 Villas at Old School House NEWLY LISTED Alpine Union | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1408 sq. ft. | $499,499 RECENTLY SOLD Alpine Union | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1532 sq. ft. | $534,999 Willow Haven BACK ON THE MARKET Willow Haven | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1814 sq. ft. | $454,900 RECENTLY SOLD Willow Haven Lane | 3 bedrooms | 3.5 baths | ...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Localist Realty)
Brentwood Weekly Market Update June 1st - 7th, 2026 Brentanna Court RECENTLY SOLD Montana Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1662 sq. ft. | $1,049,000 Montana Terrace RECENTLY SOLD Montana Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 835 sq. ft. | $590,000 Montana Avenue | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 855 sq. ft. | $595,000 Brentana Court RECENTLY SOLD Montana Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1662 sq. ft. | $1,049,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Localist Realty)
Sherman Oaks Weekly Market Update June 1st - 7th, 2026 Kester Estates BACK ON THE MARKET Kester | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1534 sq. ft. | $729,000 Killion Condos NEWLY LISTED Killion Street | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1500 sq. ft. | $759,000 Oak Pointe RECENTLY SOLD Magnolia Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1127 sq. ft. | $525,000 Town and Country Townhomes RECENTLY SOLD Willis | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 687 sq. ft. | $439,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Localist Realty)
North Hollywood Weekly Market Update June 1st - 7th, 2026 11725 Lemay St RECENTLY SOLD Lemay Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1045 sq. ft. | $469,000 Bakman Court RECENTLY SOLD Bakman Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1440 sq. ft. | $699,000
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Localist Realty)
Wilshire Corridor Weekly Market Update June 1st - 7th, 2026 Blair House RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 3 bedrooms | 4 baths | 3820 sq. ft. | $3,650,000 Ten Five Sixty RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1787 sq. ft. | $1,285,000 The Dorchester BACK ON THE MARKET Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1409 sq. ft. | $1,125,000 The Grand RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1649 sq. ft. | $1,495,000
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Whether it’s your first apartment, a growing family home, or the place you’ve loved for years, home is more than a location, it’s where life happens. If finding that feeling of peace and belonging is one of your goals this year, now is a great time to start exploring your options and creating a plan that works for you. #realestate #realestateagent #financehub #buying #selling
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
COMMUTE IN AUBURN ALABAMA: WHAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T EXPECT If you’re relocating to Auburn, one thing many people don’t think about is the commute in Auburn Alabama.Most buyers focus on the house.They compare kitchens, bathrooms, floor plans, and backyards.But what often affects your daily happiness more than the house itself is your commute.Location impacts your daily life every single day.That’s why I always tell buyers to think beyond the house and focus on how they plan to live.WHAT PEOPLE DON’T EXPECT ABOUT COMMUTING IN AUBURNMany people moving to Auburn assume traffic is always light because Auburn isn’t a large city.That’s not always the case.Traffic patterns can change significantly depending on: The time of year Auburn University schedules Football weekends School traffic Major e...
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After performing more than 8,000 NJ home inspections since 2002, I have noticed a trend that many home buyers do not fully appreciate until they are deep into the transaction. In today's Northeast real estate market, buyers are often willing to accept conditions that insurance companies may not. The buyer may be comfortable with an older roof. The buyer may be comfortable with an older electrical panel. The buyer may be comfortable with signs of past basement moisture. The buyer may be comfortable with oil heat or an underground oil tank. The insurance company may have a different opinion. That does not mean the buyer is wrong. It does not mean the insurance company is wrong. It simply means they are evaluating the property from different perspectives. The buyer is deciding whether they...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc)
BIGGEST MISTAKE BUYERS MAKE IN AUBURN ALABAMA If you’re searching for Auburn homes for sale, the biggest mistake buyers make in Auburn Alabama is focusing only on the house and not the area.I see this happen all the time.Buyers fall in love with granite countertops, a beautiful kitchen, fresh paint, or a gorgeous backyard. They become emotionally attached to a property before they stop and think about what daily life will actually look like after they move in.The truth is simple.You can change almost anything about a house.You can remodel a kitchen.You can update bathrooms.You can replace flooring.You can repaint every wall.But you cannot change the location.And that’s where many buyers end up regretting their decision. WHERE TO LIVE IN AUBURNOne of the first conversations I have with ...
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