Private Mortgage Insurance is usually required on conventional home loans in cases when the down payment is less than 20%. “Mortgage insurance” might sound like a type of life insurance that pays off the mortgage on your home for the benefit of the survivors in the event you pass away. However, Private Mortgage Insurance, known […]
Duane's Timely Topics
Duane's compilation of the most relevant topics to real estate today in Boulder.
At home on the beach – Part 2
There are many details to gauge when buying a vacation property. (Photo: Pexels). Are you thinking about buying a vacation home on an island getaway for you and your family to enjoy? There are quite a few factors to evaluate in order to make the vacation home buying experience a happy one. In my previous […]
Over 65 years of age? Apply for some relief for your property taxes
Property values have risen substantially in Boulder County and this can put upwards pressure on taxes. This burden is especially noticed by seniors on fixed incomes trying to stay in their homes. As a reminder, property taxes may be paid in one single payment by May 2 or in two equal payments. If your taxes are […]
National Radon Action Month
First-time home buyers frequently face the challenge of saving for a large enough down payment for their first home purchase. (Photo: Pexels). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has designated January as National Radon Action Month. According to the EPA, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon gas is emitted from decaying […]
You can’t outsave the market: the lowdown on low down payments
First-time home buyers frequently face the challenge of saving for a large enough down payment for their first home purchase. (Photo: Pexels). First-time home buyers frequently face the challenge of saving for a large enough down payment for their first home purchase. Home price appreciation rates along the Front Range often exceed 10% a year, […]
Real estate new year’s resolutions for 2022
This year, why not add to a real estate resolution or two to your list and see if you can make it happen? (Photo: Pexels). It’s time for New Year’s resolutions! These tend to include losing weight, joining the gym, waking up half an hour earlier, and more. This year, why not add a real […]
At Home with Diversity
At Home with Diversity® educates thousands of Realtors to work fairly and effectively with a changing and increasingly diverse pool of home buyers and home sellers. (Photo: Yan Krukov, Pexels). During the holidays, as we gather with family and friends – and celebrate sharing, togetherness, and “Peace on Earth” – we can express our […]
It’s time for your annual real estate checkup
To keep yourself healthy, you make sure to schedule an annual physical. To maintain your financial well-being, it is essential to schedule an annual real estate checkup. December is a great time to conduct that review so you can make any adjustments in the year ahead. If you’re not a homeowner yet or don’t own […]
Gift of a lifetime for first-time home buyers – Part 2
An exceptional gift idea is helping your relative or loved one with an interest rate or mortgage buydown. (Photo: Pexels). The holiday season is upon us and you may be thinking about finding a special or unique gift your family member or loved one could use for years to come. In my previous article […]
Gift of a lifetime for first-time home buyers – Part 1
For 29 percent of first-time home buyers, saving for a down payment on a home is the most challenging step in the home buying process, according to the 2021 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers report by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). Jessica Lautz, vice president of demographics and behavioral insights at NAR says, […]