Can You Use a VA Loan to Buy a Duplex in Lakewood?
If you’re like many people who qualify to use a loan from the Department of Veterans Affairs, you're wondering whether you can use a VA loan to purchase a duplex – and the simple answer is yes. Here's what you need to know.
Can You Use ...
Read More
Posted by Allison Van Wig on April 11, 2022 in Buying a Home
How Much is Capital Gains Tax on a Property in Lakewood?
If you sell a home in Lakewood or Long Beach, you could be subject to capital gains tax period but how much could you have to pay?
Please note you should always seek advice from a certified tax attorney or financial advisor. The following is ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on March 11, 2022 in Buying a Home
How Much House Can You Really Afford?
If you’re like many people, you enjoy looking at Lakewood real estate listings online – but how do you know exactly how much house you can really afford? This guide explains.
How Much House Can You Really Afford?
Allison Van Wig ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on February 1, 2022 in Buying a Home
What NOT to Say on a Home Tour
When you’re on the hunt for your dream home, your Lakewood REALTOR® will show you a variety of great places – but beware: There are some things you shouldn’t say while you’re out touring homes.
What NOT to Say When ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on January 20, 2022 in Buying a Home
Is There a Secret to Saving for a Down Payment on a Home?
The more money you save for a down payment, the better off you’ll be – your mortgage payments will be lower, and you’ll likely qualify for better terms and interest rates. And, if you save more than 20 percent of a home’s ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on January 14, 2022 in Buying a Home
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before You Apply for a Mortgage
If you’re like most people, you already know that you need an acceptable credit score in order to qualify for the best rates and terms on a mortgage – but what can you do to boost your score if it’s lower than you want it to be? ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on January 11, 2022 in Buying a Home
3 Key Money Matters to Consider in an Offer for Your Home
Your home is on the market, buyers are showing interest, and the offers are coming in. When entertaining offers, and choosing one that's best for you, consider these three key money matters.
Buyer Financing and All-Cash Offers. ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on December 25, 2021 in Buying a Home
4 Shocking Things to Look for When You Tour a Home
When you're buying a home, the seller has to tell you about any major defects that they know about - but what about the things the seller doesn't know about? There may be defects in a home that you'll only discover by walking around and looking ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on December 20, 2021 in Buying a Home
How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent to Buy a Home in Lakewood
Buying a home is a big deal - so if you're thinking about joining the fray and finding your dream space, it's important that you work with the right real estate agent for your needs. So how do you find the right agent when you're buying a house? ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on December 11, 2021 in Buying a Home
New to Real Estate Investing? Read This First!
If you’re a new real estate investor, you’re probably looking for tips and tricks anywhere you can find them – and this guide is here to help.
New to Real Estate Investing? Check Out This Guide
As a new investor, the first thing ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on November 17, 2021 in Buying a Home
When Should You Offer Over Asking Price on a Lakewood Home for Sale?
In some cases, it’s smart to offer more than what the seller is asking. In fact, doing so could help you seal the deal – but you should always rely on your Lakewood REALTOR’s® guidance. So when should you offer over asking ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on August 14, 2021 in Buying a Home
Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early? Pros and Cons to Consider
You’ve signed on the dotted line and purchased your first home. For the most part, you’ve always been financially responsible—that’s how you were able to move into your new residence in the first place. Now that you’ve ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on July 25, 2021 in Buying a Home
Can You Get a Mortgage With Student Loan Debt?
If you’re like many people, you’re a college graduate with more than a little student loan debt – but you want to buy a home. So can you get a mortgage with student loan debt?
Absolutely – and this guide explains.
Can You ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on July 20, 2021 in Buying a Home
What is an Escalation Clause?
An escalation clause is one way to simplify the process if you’re engaged in a bidding war – but what is it, exactly, and how can it make your life easier? This guide explains.
What is an Escalation Clause?
An escalation clause is a ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on July 17, 2021 in Buying a Home
3 Features Homebuyers Want in 2021
A Shower Without a Curb
A curbless shower means you can walk right in without having to step over a barrier. This kind of feature is the type that buyers look for in a sophisticated main bedroom en suite. Amenities like soaking tubs, steam showers, ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on July 8, 2021 in Buying a Home
I’m Buying a House But I Don’t Want to Join an HOA. What Can I Do?
If you plan on buying a newer home chances are it'll be governed by an HOA. In fact, there are over 351,000 homeowners associations in the U.S. and they manage 53 percent of owner-occupied homes, according HomeLight. In 2018 greater than half of ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on July 3, 2021 in Buying a Home
2 More Things NOT to Do While House Hunting
Although you may be eager to find a new home, especially in today’s super-competitive market, be careful to avoid these missteps that could hinder the process of finding the home that’s the perfect fit for you.
Being Afraid to Be ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on May 17, 2021 in Buying a Home
3 Things Not to Do While House Hunting
In the effort to find a new home, especially in today’s super-competitive market, do your very best to avoid these mistakes that can hinder the process of finding the home that’s just right for you, or simply make your home search less ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on May 14, 2021 in Buying a Home
2 Home Offer Acceptance Delays You Should Know
You’ve submitted an offer to purchase your dream home in Long Beach. The house is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and it’s just the right size. The backyard has plenty of space for the kids, and the neighborhood has jogging ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on May 8, 2021 in Buying a Home
How Long Does a Seller Have to Accept Your Offer?
So you’ve found your dream home in Lakewood. It’s a beautiful residence that checks all your boxes. The community is one you’ve always envisioned for you and your family, the school district has a great reputation, and the ...
Read More
Posted by Concierge Van Wig & Associates on May 3, 2021 in Buying a Home