Rita Tayenaka

I am not sure if you are talking about the CalFHA programs and specialized city programs or the seller financed down payment programs like Ameridream or Neimiah. The CalFha type programs are not bad but do add time on to the escrow. You should count on at least 45-60 days to complete both loans. The seller financed programs are not allowed after Oct 1 so if you are planning on purchasing a home using one of those programs you need to get busy, find a home and close! - Fri Aug 29 2008, 21:17

I just sold three different REO properties- three different buyers.... and we learned the hard way. In Orange county- you MUST offer the list price like the other agents said they are USUALLY priced right- one buyer we wrote 22 offers- all full price but they had an FHA loan with a special down program that takes extra time. We were beat out many times by investors with cash. So the story is 1- have your loan READY- not just pre-qual- get the process started. Get a lender that knows FHA if that is what you are going to use. 2. Make a strong offer- they typically don't do termite, repairs etc. so don't ask 3- be prepared for a counter that says give us your best a final offer. ! If you have other questions about the process let us know! - Wed Aug 27 2008, 19:18

You should talk to your CPA to see all the tax consequences and benefits of a mortgage. You can make a proper decison then. Most likely a loan would be in your best interest so you have some write-offs come tax time. - Mon Aug 25 2008, 22:03

HOA is a set fee you can call the management company to find out what the charges are and what they cover. It is also a good idea to ask if there are any special assesments or assessments currently being talked about or voted on. For utilities I would ask neighbors- what they typically spend. Hard to say what they would be because everyone uses uitlities so differently- depending on how many kids etc.
Good luck with your bid! - Fri Aug 22 2008, 11:21

No- there isn't any difference between the two terms- maybe on one website you list it as active - typically the MLS- and on the agent's personal website it might be listed for sale. Hope this helps. - Thu Aug 21 2008, 20:04