Tag Archives: REAL ESTATE FEES

Buying homes through a tax sale

There are many different ways to invest in real estate. The more common known due to some of the DYI shows on TV are the rehabbers/flippers and the income/rental properties.

Another way to invest in real estate is tax sales. Continue reading Buying homes through a tax sale

Marion County Indiana new rental proposals

gavelBe aware Proposal 195 which is being introduced to create a Marion County Indiana landlord registry. Landlords have to re-resister themselves on an annual basis as a landlord. The reason given for this registry is that many properties in disrepair and vacant are owned by investors. About 50% or more of them are owned by owner occupants who no longer can pay for their mortgage.

Continue reading Marion County Indiana new rental proposals

When shopping for Home insurance, know what is in your policy.

Before I continue with this information let me give you a disclaimer; I am not an insurance agent or an attorney. For legal advice or any advice regarding this topic contact your insurance agent or legal counsel.

shoppingIn one of my blogs I discussed how to keep your home insurance low, but have you ever thought about what should be listed in your policy?

I get it. Some of the polices are written with such fine print that it would take a microscope to read it. How many layman really understand the legal mumbo jumbo contained in their insurance policy. A great Insurance agent can help you navigate the legal wrangling of your insurance contract.

Some things you should look for when you compare insurance policies.

Flood insurance: Many insurance policies do not cover floods of any kind. Even when you are not in a flood zone you might consider adding flood insurance to your policy. Floods not only happen naturally but also could be side effect of developments or construction in the general area.

Does your policy cover to “bringing your property up to code” in case of damage? Why is that important?

If your home was built 10 to 15 years ago it is possible that it may not meet current local code requirements. During the last 10 to 15 years many zoning ordinances and building codes have changed. To bring a home back up to zoning ordinances and building code standards could be a very expensive out of pocket expense when it is not covered by insurance. Typically, during the rebuilding process, buildings must be rebuilt to the new codes.

Man's Hands Signing DocumentAnother thing to look for in your policy is liability coverage that covers not only accidents, but also assault and battery. Regardless of how much we like our neighbors, friends, and family, when we invite them over to our home they may bring with them their personal life we might not know about. If they decide to duke out their disagreement on your front lawn you could be liable for damages or injuries they sustain. You need to make sure you are covered.

I would like to add another thought. Just because you paid off your mortgage does not mean you should drop your insurance coverage. What you should do is send a “paid in full letter” from your mortgage company to your insurance company so they can take your mortgage company off the policy. In some cases they will reduce your payment as long as you are personally occupying the house.

For more information on insurance related items contact your insurance agent or when you are looking to lower your rate contact one of the agents listed on our resource page. For any Real Estate related questions or concerns contact the Settles Team. We are never too busy to answer any of your questions or address any of your concerns.

WHAT ARE THE REAL ESTATE FEES FOR SELLERS IN A REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION?


Depending on what type of financing, the loan amount, and the loan length a buyer seeks for the property they are purchasing, the real estate fees for sellers might vary.

Some of the costs a buyer might accrue are

  • the down payment
  • homeowner’s insurance
  • home inspection
  • flood insurance if the property is in a flood zone
  • home owner’s association fees when applicable

Pennies on the Dollar - bill with pennies on white background.Some loans, such as an FHA, VA, or USDA actually require a seller to cover all or some of the closing costs and fees. Some buyers will ask the seller to help them pay for some of the closing costs/fees.

Many of the costs/fees are third party vendor fees like

  • appraisal fees
  • closing fee for the title company
  • title search fee
  • flood determination fee
  • courier fee
  • survey fee
  • Termite/radon/lead base paint inspection
  • Title insurance ( lenders policy)
  • title insurance ( owners policy)
  • buyer’s attorneys fee (not all states)
  • sellers attorney fees (not all states)
  • lenders attorney fees (not all states)

The fee amount varies by state, loan amount, and type of loan. You should contact your local title rep, closing attorney, or mortgage provider for a more comprehensive list within your state. Some states might have additional costs/fees a seller or buyer are required to pay before they close a transaction.