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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 David Buck, Realtor-Broker
(Harcourts Island Real Estate)
Nestled in the quiet loop of Mahalani Circle in Kaneohe, this hidden gem of a home offers more than just beautiful architecture—it delivers an experience. Presented by David Buck of Harcourts Island Real Estate, this non-distressed auction property boasts a blend of old and new in a setting that celebrates indoor-outdoor island living... Read More
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By John Martino
(lookSmart Home Inspections, LLC)
Should I Worry About Mold During a Home Inspection?Mold is one of those things people tend to worry about when buying a home, and for good reason. It is common, it can affect indoor air quality, and in some cases, it points to bigger moisture problems in the home.During a home inspection, mold may not always be visible. Sometimes there is staining, musty odors, or signs of water damage that suggest mold might be present. Other times, mold is right there, on attic sheathing, basement walls, or under a bathroom sink. Either way, the key is not just spotting mold, but understanding why it is there.Mold grows when moisture is present. That moisture can come from roof leaks, poor ventilation, plumbing issues, wet basements, or even just high humidity. A stain or patch of growth is not the ma...
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
You’re Not Being Picky. You’re Just Not Stupid.You ever hear a buyer apologize for having standards? “I feel like I’m just being too picky…” Girl, no. You are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars. You want a backyard? That’s not picky—that’s normal. You want the toilets to flush without sounding like a haunted ship? Again, not picky. Just not stupid.⠀Here’s the deal:• You should be a little choosy when buying a home.• You can be realistic without settling for a hot mess.• And no, it’s not your job to make a seller feel better about their shag carpet and dripping faucet.⠀I’ll help you stay grounded, strategic, and maybe even laugh a little during the process. Because being smart ≠ being difficult.⠀Looking in Auburn or Opelika? Let’s find you the right one—without losing your mind in...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
For Sale two side by side licensed 5 bed assisted living homes in North Central Phoenix Arizona.Each home has 5 private bedrooms, roll in showers and upgrades for a very pleasant and comfortable resident experience. Total in both homes of 10 private licensed bedrooms plus an 11th bedroom for caregiver(s). Both homes total 11 bedrooms, 5 roll in shower bathrooms, 4,005sf (total) and 4 car garage spaces.These are two of the nicest assisted living homes you will see in a private and peaceful location. Pleasant courtyards and gardens.Fully occupied with a waiting list. Real Estate and Business $1,500.000.The address and prospectus is confidential until a serious ALH buyer signs NDA and provides POF. Owner is retiring after 20+ years. Call or email or text for more information. For more info...
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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 KAREN SANCHEZ, ...Marketing your home like no one else will.
( Reputable Realty)
Boost Your Buying Power: 3 Smart Steps Toward HomeownershipBuying a home is a major milestone—but for many, the journey starts long before the house hunt. If you’re dreaming of becoming a homeowner, there are steps you can take now to boost your buying power and position yourself for success when the right opportunity comes along. Here are three powerful ways to get started:1. Pay Down Your Debt One of the first things lenders look at is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—how much you owe compared to what you earn. High debt can limit the loan amount you qualify for or result in higher interest rates. Start by reviewing your credit card balances, car loans, student loans, or other debts.Focus on paying off high-interest debt first, and avoid taking on new obligations while preparing to buy...
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By John Martino
(lookSmart Home Inspections, LLC)
What Fails a Home Inspection?A lot of people ask me, “What fails a home inspection?”The short answer is—nothing really fails.A home inspection is not a pass/fail test. It is a detailed, unbiased look at the home’s current condition from top to bottom. That said, there are things that commonly cause concern or derail a real estate deal. Here’s what you should know.Home Inspectors Do Not Pass or Fail HomesLet me say this clearly—as home inspectors, we do not pass or fail homes.We document what we see, point out issues that could impact safety or major systems, and explain the findings. Whether something is a dealbreaker or not—that is up to the buyer.What Typically Raises Red Flags?Here are the most common issues I see that lead to buyers backing out or renegotiating:Structural ProblemsCr...
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By Betty Garcia Doral-Miami Realtor® (786) 229-3636, Miami-Doral-Kendall- Coral Gables(786) 229-3636
(17thRealty.com Miami Dade & Broward)
🏡 Why Experience Matters When Buying or Selling in DoralIf you're looking to buy or sell in Doral or surrounding Miami-Dade communities, working with a seasoned real estate expert is more important than ever.My name is Betty Garcia, and with over 20 years of experience in the South Florida real estate market, I’ve helped hundreds of families and investors navigate the ever-changing landscape of homeownership, investment, and relocation.✅ Local knowledge✅ Bilingual service (English & Spanish)✅ Personal attention from a real, full-time Realtor—not a team or chatbot📍 Specializing in Doral CommunitiesWhether you're looking in Islands at Doral, Doral Isles, Downtown Doral, or Doral Estates, I’ll help you: Understand your options based on budget, schools, and lifestyle Negotiate with confiden...
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By Denise Copeland, Jupiter Abacoa Sales & Beach Front Luxury Homes
(Home Sales Palm Beach)
So, you’re thinking about retiring to Florida. Good call. Sunshine, no state income tax, and beaches that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous? Yes, please. But before you lock in those flip-flops and sun hats, let’s talk about a hidden gem that’s quietly stealing the spotlight: Hobe Sound.Why Hobe Sound for Retirement?Forget the chaos of Miami or Orlando’s theme-park madness. Hobe Sound is where laid-back meets luxury, with a sprinkle of small-town charm. Nestled on Florida’s Treasure Coast, it’s a place where retirees can sip their morning coffee while watching the sunrise over the Atlantic without elbowing through crowds.Here’s the real kicker: Hobe Sound offers some seriously hot deals on real estate right now. Whether you want a cozy condo, a waterfront villa, or a quiet single...
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By Stephanie Huber, Real Estate Brokerage serving Port St. Lucie, FL
(www.thehubergroup.com | Huber Real Estate Group of Florida)
Astor Creek Golf & Country Club is the newest golf community in Port St. Lucie, Florida with single family homes for all ages that include four unique front elevations on beautiful golf course, lake and garden views. The golf club is currently up and running, including an 18 hole course, 15 acre driving range, 3 acre short game complex & 15,000 square foot practice putting green.The Leslie model features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, flex room, 2-3 car garage with 2,129 living square feet. Base price for the Leslie is currently at $591,990 not including the homesite, structure or design options. Prices subject to change at any time. Ask us about incentives towards design options and closing costs when using the builder's preferred lender.Resident memberships are included with a new home purc...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Hillcrest Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 Loma Cresta NEWLY LISTED Centre Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1006 sq. ft. | $700,000
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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)
The Land Test: Five Questions to Ask Before You Ever Buy a LotIn our last post, we talked about land as the first chapter of every dream home—the quiet decision that determines everything that follows.But how do you actually know when a piece of land is worth it?Too many buyers fall in love with the view or the price tag—only to find out later that the lot can’t be built on, needs $75,000 in site work, or will take years to get approvals.So before you buy a parcel and start dreaming in blueprints, run it through The Land Test. These five questions could save you time, money, and a massive headache:1. Is it BOHA approved—or will it be? If you’re in Putnam or Northern Westchester, chances are you're dealing with private septic and wells. A Board of Health Approval (BOHA) is more than a fo...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Clairemont Mesa Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 Balboa Ridge RECENTLY SOLD Balboa Arms | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 564 sq. ft. | $435,000 Canyon Rim RECENTLY SOLD Ariane Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 810 sq. ft. | $575,000 Ariane Drive | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 810 sq. ft. | $545,000 Costa Viva NEWLY LISTED Morena Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1008 sq. ft. | $630,000 Mission Bay Ridge RECENTLY SOLD Cowley Way | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1364 sq. ft. | $749,000
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By John Martino
(lookSmart Home Inspections, LLC)
Do I Really Need a Home Inspection on a New Construction Home?If you are buying a brand-new house, you might be wondering, Do I need a home inspection on new construction? The builder says everything is up to code. The house looks perfect. It even has that new home smell. But the truth is, yes — you still need a professional home inspection.I inspect newly built homes regularly, and I can tell you from experience that brand new does not mean problem-free. Just because the home is new does not mean it was built perfectly or that every part of it was finished correctly.Why Do I Need a Home Inspection on a New Build?Here is the reality: new homes are built by people, and people make mistakes. Builders work under pressure to finish on time. Subcontractors come and go. Not every detail gets ...
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By Nina Hollander, Broker, Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Summer 2025☀️  Might Just Be The Best Time To Buy A Greater Charlotte Area Home In Years 🏡📉📈🔑 — Here’s WhyIf you’ve been waiting for the right moment to buy a home, this summer might offer the best conditions we’ve seen in a long time. Here are three compelling reasons why:1. Buyers Have More Negotiating PowerAfter years of a seller-dominated market, the balance is starting to shift. Today, we are seeing a shift in supply of and demand for homes  — a reversal from the frenzied days of 2021 through 2023, when demand far outpaced supply. Back then, the market was marked by bidding wars, waived contingencies, and rapid price increases. Today we are seeing way fewer bidding wars, sellers agreeing to contingencies, and a much lower rate of appreciation in home prices. Now, with the tables be...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
North Park Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 Robinson Street RECENTLY SOLD Robinson Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 1 baths | 756 sq. ft. | $495,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
La Jolla Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 La Jolla Park Villas RECENTLY SOLD Via Sonoma | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 623 sq. ft. | $625,000 Villas Mallorca RECENTLY SOLD Villa La Jolla Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1056 sq. ft. | $1,195,000 Woodlands South NEWLY LISTED Via Marin | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1074 sq. ft. | $985,000 Woodlands West II RECENTLY SOLD Via Sonoma | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1074 sq. ft. | $799,000
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Carlsbad Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 Casa Grande NEWLY LISTED Caringa Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1080 sq. ft. | $699,000 La Costa Alta RECENTLY SOLD Sello Lane | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 696 sq. ft. | $525,000 La Costa Cays RECENTLY SOLD Navarra Drive | 2 bedrooms | 1.5 baths | 1427 sq. ft. | $699,000 La Costa Fairways NEWLY LISTED Navarra Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1326 sq. ft. | $785,000 Laguna Del Mar RECENTLY SOLD Vigilant Way | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1830 sq. ft. | $1,389,000 Las Playas RECENTLY SOLD Alderwood Drive | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 999 sq. ft. | $879,500 Meadowridge RECENTLY SOLD Corte Cisco | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1505 sq. ft. | $849,000 Avenida Christina | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1350 sq. ft. | $849,999 Avenida Olmeda | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths ...
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By Bandele Oguntomilade, Top REALTOR, Your Woodland Hills Real Estate Agent 818-825-6996
(Bogun Realty and Luxury Homes)
OPEN HOUSES SATURDAY + SUNDAY 1-4PM Property:                              251 W. 112st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90061Virtual Tour:                          www.251West112.comOffered At:                              $495,000Call:                                           818-825-6996 Property Description: 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bathrooms, Bonus Room, 2-Car Garage | Your Opportunity is Here! CALL 818-825-6996.  www.251West112.com OFFER DEADLINE is 5pm Tuesday 6-24-25. First time on market in 66 years! Beautiful, very affordable, moderately updated, Los Angeles home on spacious corner-lot.  Public records show 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom; however the property presents as 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, with bonus room and attached 2-car garage. This home is 990sf on 4604sf corner-lot. Exudes pride-of-ow...
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By Tom Bashe, Your Temecula Valley Expert
(Localist Realty)
Downtown San Diego Weekly Market Update June 9th - 15th, 2025 235 Market RECENTLY SOLD Market Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1308 sq. ft. | $799,000 Electra NEWLY LISTED W E Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1275 sq. ft. | $1,430,000 Gaslamp City Square RECENTLY SOLD J Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1013 sq. ft. | $699,000 Pinnacle RECENTLY SOLD Front Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 737 sq. ft. | $515,000 Sapphire Tower RECENTLY SOLD Kettner Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1283 sq. ft. | $950,000 Smart Corner RECENTLY SOLD Park Boulevard | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 863 sq. ft. | $439,000 Trellis RECENTLY SOLD K Street | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 949 sq. ft. | $659,000
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