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Area Real Estate News & Market Trends

You’ll find our blog to be a wealth of information, covering everything from local market statistics and home values to community happenings. That’s because we care about the community and want to help you find your place in it. Please reach out if you have any questions at all. We’d love to talk with you!

May 24, 2021

Home Buying: Make a List Check It Twice

Have some of our beautiful Columbia homes for sale been catching your eye? If you're thinking about buying a home, taking some steps to prepare yourself ahead of time will help ensure everything goes smoothly.

While the whole process might seem overwhelming at first, it's very simple. To help you get started, our real estate agents have created this list of the six most important things you'll want to begin working on right away.

  1. Check Your Credit Score
    Your credit score determines whether you qualify for a home loan and the interest rate you'll pay. Checking it right away gives you a chance to take the necessary steps to raise your score.You'll also want to review your credit report to make sure all of the information is accurate. You can download a free copy once a year by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com. If you notice any discrepancies, contact the credit reporting agencies right away so they can start working on a resolution.
  2. Determine Your Price Range
    Use an online calculator or work with a mortgage lender to determine how much you can afford for your new home. You'll need to consider your down-payment, monthly mortgage payment, closing costs, property taxes, and other expenses like utilities, maintenance, and homeowner's association fees.Remember that the type of mortgage you choose and the current interest rates will also impact your overall cost.  As a general rule of thumb, a good recommendation to determine your price range is to keep total housing costs below 28 percent of your gross monthly income.
  3. Save Up Your Down-Payment
    Some lenders allow you to purchase a home with a down payment as low as three to five percent. Remember, however, that if you choose to put down less than 20 percent of your purchase price, you'll be required to pay private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums until you reach the 20 percent threshold.If you're serious about saving up for your down payment, it's always a good idea to set up a separate bank account. Determine exactly how much you need to put away each month and set up an automatic savings plan.
  4. Get Pre-Qualified
    In today's real estate market, most sellers won't even entertain an offer unless the buyer already has a pre-qualification letter. Once you've chosen the mortgage lender you want to use, they'll review your finances and provide you with a letter stating how much they've agreed to lend you. This will put you ahead of the game when the time comes to put in your offer.
  5. Hold Tight
    Once you've been pre-qualified for a loan, any changes you make to your finances could require you to start over. This means you'll want to avoid opening any new credit accounts or changing your employment status. Buying a car, taking out a loan for furniture, or anything else that requires a credit inquiry could cause you to lose your dream home. Don't make this mistake!
  6. Find a Great Real Estate Agent
    The home buying process can be daunting, especially if it's your first time. The expertise and professional knowledge a real estate agent brings to the table is indispensable and well worth the cost. A great real estate agent can help you find the perfect home, guide you through the negotiation process, and stay by your side until you have your new house keys in hand.

Are you ready to get started on your home-buying journey? We would love to help! Contact Columbia Real Estate today to get started.

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May 10, 2021

What Columbia Sellers need to know about Disclosures

If you have homes for sale in Columbia, you certainly want to present them in the best light possible to attract buyers. But when it comes to real estate, honesty is still the best policy. Avoid problems that could hinder a sale by following these guidelines for full disclosure.

  • Don't Rely on Buyer Inspections
    Motivated buyers usually have a home inspection conducted. If it uncovers a major issue you failed to disclose, the buyer may be less inclined to trust you. You could also be on the hook for problems that arise after the purchase if there's a reason to believe you were aware of them.
  • Know the Federal and State Rules
    Real estate transactions are governed primarily by state rules. The one iron-clad federal regulation involves issues with lead-based paint in homes built before 1978. State regulations are more comprehensive, covering matters such as mold, termites and other pests, hazardous conditions such as earthquakes and floods, and insurance claims.
  • Disclose "Emotional Defects"
    A home is more than just four walls and a roof. Many states have regulations regarding the disclosure of "emotional defects" that may make a buyer uncomfortable living in a particular home. Conditions falling under this umbrella may include murders, deaths or violent crimes, neighbor disputes, and paranormal activity.
  • Be Specific
    "I'm not sure when we replaced the hot water heater." Vague statements like this don't cut it. Buyers see such comments as another tip-off that you're deceptive and trying to cover up a problem.
  • Keep a Paper Trail
    Has your home suffered from a leaky roof or chronic plumbing problems? Provide the buyer with any documentation you have regarding remediation, including repair receipts and communication with workers. In addition to demonstrating open disclosure, the paper trail provides evidence of proper maintenance.
  • Disclosures Are Not Guarantees
    Warranties on new roofs and other repairs should be provided to a buyer, but disclosure of such items doesn't constitute a personal guarantee. Such information shows you have made a good faith effort to correct a problem.
  • Focus on the Big Picture
    Nearly every home will have minor cosmetic flaws, such as a crooked tile or two in the bathroom. Don't get bogged down in listing every single imperfection you come across. Disclosure is meant to address significant problems affecting the safety or value of the home.
  • When in Doubt, Disclose
    Are you wondering about whether or not specific problems merit disclosure? A good rule of thumb is to put yourself in the buyer's shoes. If it's something you would want to know about, chances are the buyer will as well.
  • Hire a Real Estate Agent
    Even if you've sold a home before, real estate laws and best practices change all the time. An experienced and ethical real estate agent stays on top of current regulations, has a network of top professionals and guides you through the best course of action.

Our real estate agents are more than professionals. We consider ourselves partners in your success, supporting you with expert assistance every step of the way. Contact us and let Columbia Real Estate take the stress and uncertainty out of your home selling experience.

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April 26, 2021

What to Expect - Home Inspection

When you're buying a home, our real estate agents always recommend a professional inspection before finalizing the deal. A home inspection can uncover all kinds of potential issues.

If you're looking at Columbia homes for sale, we want to make sure you never get caught off guard by unexpected problems. These are the answers to some of the most common questions regarding home inspections:

What Will a Home Inspection Cost?

A typical home inspection costs between $200 and $400. While you may balk at the cost, consider this – having a home professionally inspected may reveal defects that would cost thousands of dollars to fix. A home inspection can help you avoid sinking your money into a money pit.

On the other hand, the inspection may not turn up any problems at all, in which case you now have the peace of mind that comes from knowing the house is sound. You may also have the option of asking for a reduced price on the home based on issues found during the inspection. 

What Does the Inspection Cover?

Every home inspector has his/her particular methods and protocol, but the general guidelines of the American Society of Home Inspectors should be adhered to, no matter what. A good home inspector will check each of the following areas, and possibly others as well:

  • Heating system
  • Central air conditioning
  • Interior plumbing and electrical systems
  • Floors, ceilings, and walls
  • The attic and all visible insulation
  • Roof and structural components
  • Basement and foundation
  • Windows and doors

As the buyer, it is your responsibility to choose and hire a home inspector. In addition to the points listed above, you have the option of requesting additional inspections for mold, asbestos, termites, radon, and lead. These inspections usually come at an extra cost, but may be worth the expense, especially if you are planning to buy an older house.

What Comes After the Home Inspection?

You will receive a detailed home inspection report from the inspector. This report should include notes, summaries, checklists, and photographs that tell you what was inspected and detail any problems. If the report reveals no defects, the sale can proceed as planned. But if issues are present – and there are usually at least a few –  then you have a few options moving forward

Keep in mind that no house is perfect, and even a great house may have minor problems that show up on the inspection report. It's not the number of issues that matters; it's the seriousness. A few things to consider:

  • If there are issues that you and your agent consider important enough to warrant fixing, ask the seller to either have repairs done before closing or reducing the price.
  • For minor issues, it might be best to let them go rather than jeopardize the deal.
  • If there are serious structural issues with either the roof or the foundation, it might be best to walk away. These repairs can cost many thousands of dollars.

Ready to take the next steps on the path to homeownership? Contact us today to learn more, and let our team of dedicated real estate agents help you find your dream home and make it your own.

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April 12, 2021

Home Improvement Information

There are many ways for you to increase the value of your home. Some may cost you very little, while others are more expensive. You will have to weigh your options and decide if the improvements that you want to make will increase the value of your house for more than what you put into it.

Curb Appeal

Increasing your curb appeal is a great way to make your house look more amazing. An easy update is to paint your front door, or just give it a good cleaning to bring it back to life. Keeping everything symmetrical also makes your entryway appealing. Outdoor lighting can also make a huge impact on your home while providing safety and security.

Making over your mailbox can also complement your home. Get a great looking mailbox, paint it or add some great plants and flowers around it. Adding shutters or painting your trim is another great way to give your house more appeal. A more expensive option for curb appeal is replacing your vinyl siding, but it does have an average recoup rate of 95.5%.

Painting

Repairing and painting your interior walls can instantly upgrade the interior of your house. Fill in any holes and prime and paint your walls. Most paints cost around $30 for a gallon. You will also need things like painter's tape, brushes and rollers. If this seems like a lot, you may want to hire a professional.

Lighting

Updating your lighting can bring new pizzazz to your outdated look. Big-box stores will have some inexpensive options for you to bring new life to your home. If you're on a tight budget, you can try using the fixtures you have and just painting them or buying a new shade for a lamp.

Don’t Forget the Attic

Adding an attic bedroom is a great way to add more value to your home. When you add insulation to your attic, it will also help lower your utility bills. You will need to see if your current HVAC system can handle the load of adding another room. Adding a solar-powered attic fan is a great way to add super efficient cooling to your house.

Outdoor Spaces

A porch or deck is a great way to bring new life to your backyard. A 16 x 20 foot wood deck costs around $11,000 and has a 90% recoup rate. Add some decorative planters to bring some life to it. If you have an unattractive air conditioning unit in your backyard, camouflage it with a trellis.

Kitchen & Bathrooms

If you are looking to spend a bit more money, consider using that budget in your kitchen or master bathroom. You'll get around a 102% recoup rate on fixing up your bathroom. Inexpensive things to do include or re-caulking your tub or re-glazing it. Add a new coat of paint to the walls and update old shower curtains. Dated flooring can seriously bum out a new buyer. Make sure your bathroom has an awesome new floor in it.

A kitchen remodel can have a return of 98.5%. You could re-face your cabinets and drawers. Changing out your laminate countertops is also a great thing to do to increase the appeal of your kitchen. If your kitchen doesn't have recessed lighting, that is another cheaper option to consider that will add some value. Make sure your kitchen also has some great flooring. It costs a bit more to make this update, but it will totally help to bring in a buyer. Add a backsplash for an inexpensive update. Tin ceiling tiles are a great affordable option for this. Don't forget about your window treatments—updating them can bring new life to your kitchen.

Are you looking for additional home improvement information for the Columbia, MO area? Contact us today—we would love to help!

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March 29, 2021

Columbia Government & Utility Resources

When you purchase a new home there are all types of utility services that you need to have hooked up. Whether you are looking for the City of Columbia utilities, or natural gas and cable television providers in our area, we have them listed for you. You can also find all the local emergency contact information for the Columbia police and fire departments.

Are you looking for additional government and utility resources for the Columbia, MO area? Contact us—we are here to help!

Local Government & Utilities

Ameren UE Gas P.O. Box 66529
St Louis, MO 63166
800-552-7583

Boone County Assessors Office 801 East Walnut
Columbia, MO 65201
573-886-4270

Boone County Department Of Motor Vehicle 403 Vandiver Drive
Columbia, MO 65202
573-474-4700

Boone County Electric Cooperative 1413 Rangeline Street
Columbia, MO 65205
573-449-4181

Boone County Fire Department 2201 I-70 Drive Northwest
Columbia, MO 65202
573-447-5000

Boone County Health Department 1005 West Worley
P.O. Box 6015
Columbia, MO 65203
573-874-7355

Boone County Sheriff Department 2121 County Drive
Columbia, MO 65202
573-875-1111

Century Link 625 Cherry St
Columbia, MO 65201
573-886-3336

City Of Columbia 701 East Broadway
P.O. Box 6015
Columbia, MO 65205
573-874-6338

Columbia Fire Department 201 Orr Street
Columbia, MO 65201
573-874-7391

Columbia Parks And Recreation 1 South 7th Street
Columbia, MO 65201
573-874-7460

Columbia Police Department 600 East Walnut
Columbia, MO 65201
573-874-7652

Columbia Solid Waste Department P.O. Box 6015
Columbia, MO 65205
573-874-7250

Columbia Water & Light Department 105 East Ash Street
Columbia, MO 65203
573-874-7325

Mediacom Cable 901 North College Avenue
Columbia, MO 65201
573-443-1535
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March 15, 2021

How to Determine Your Home's Property Lines

Knowing Your Boundaries

As you search for Columbia homes for sale, you've surely got a lot on your mind. Our real estate agents will help you find the perfect home in the perfect neighborhood, but we also want to make sure you're as knowledgeable as possible about all aspects of homeownership. One area that's an area of concern for homeowners is determining the legal boundaries of the property that they are hoping to purchase.

Property lines are important. These boundaries are legally defined points that officially mark the limits of the property. Knowing where these lines are is critical when buying a home, regardless if it's newly constructed or has resided in a neighborhood for decades. For new homes, you'll want to know your property lines so you can correctly install structures such as fences around the property. This is especially important if you're looking at a home is adjacent to an area where another home may be built or an area that is owned by the town or county government. You should also research property lines on older homes. Over the years, a neighbor or previous owner may have made changes to the property that spill over the boundary line.

Determining property lines is important, but it's not impossible. Here are a few ways you can determine property lines around Columbia homes for sale.

  • When in Doubt, Check the Deed
    The first document you should check is the deed to the property. The deed will describe the property boundaries using landmarks around the area. For example, it might say that the property line runs from the fire hydrant located on the sidewalk in front of the home to the utility pole that sits at the rear of the home. Keep in mind that there may be more than one deed in your property's history. The most recent deed will display information regarding any changes to the property, including if any pieces of the land were sold to another owner. Also understand that the landmarks that the deed rely on may no longer be on the property, such as trees or utility box.
  • Obtain a Copy of the Plat
    A plat is a map that homeowners receive when they purchase a property. This document will display property lines and measurements. If the current owner of the property doesn't have the plat — or if you are selling your property and can't locate it — don't worry. You should be able to obtain a copy of it at the clerk or surveyors office. If you live in an enclosed community like a subdivision or neighborhood, a master plat for the area should be able in your public records or zoning department.
  • Hire a Professional Surveyor
    Of course, you can also choose to have a survey conducted for the most up-to-date information. A state licensed surveyor will walk your property line and make precise measurements to show you exactly where your property lines are. It's also wise to make sure that the individual or company you hire has professional liability insurance to protect you against survey mistakes that may encroach upon another person's legal property line.

Property Lines for Your Columbia Home

Knowing the defined lines of a property ensures that you and your neighbors can make changes to your properties without violating the legal boundary lines. For more helpful tips regarding Columbia homes for sale, feel free to contact Columbia Real Estate. Our real estate agents are here to answer your questions!

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March 1, 2021

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage at the Speed of Light

If you have a 30-year mortgage, you probably imagine yourself on the verge of retirement when you pay that final installment. It doesn't have to be that way. With a flexible approach to financing and creative thinking, you can retire your mortgage long before that 30-year deadline.

Our real estate agents work with many homeowners in the area. While some are content to keep their existing mortgage contracts, others jump at the chance to eliminate their debt as quickly as possible. Your decision to change the way you pay off your home should be based on the certainty of improving your financial future.

To help you decide what's best for you, we want to share our ideas for paying off your mortgage at the speed of light.

  • Refinance over a shorter period
    If you financed your home with a 30-year mortgage, a shift to a 15-year contract will cut your time commitment in half. It will also increase your monthly payment but that won't be as much of a financial strain as it might seem. A major benefit of a 15-year mortgage is its lower interest rate. When you commit to paying off your mortgage in half the time, your payment is larger but the reduced interest means it won't be twice as much.
  • Pay extra on your principal
    If you prefer not to refinance your mortgage, you can still pay your home off fast by regularly paying more than your planned installment. Once you've met your monthly mortgage obligation, any extra amounts you pay go directly toward reducing the principal.For example, if you add an additional $100. to your $900. monthly payment, in one year you will have paid an additional $1200. Those extra payments total $24,000. over 20 years and they reduce your total interest as they the lower your principal.
  • Refinance at a lower rate for the same period
    If you're considering a transition to a 15-year mortgage just to get a better interest rate, you might not have to. All Mortgage rates fluctuate. Your refinance might allow you to get a better rate while keeping your 30-year terms. This move should reduce your total interest and your monthly payments. If you want to pay off your mortgage faster, you can continue to make the original payment.
  • Reduce your principal with "found" money
    Before you receive any unexpected cash, make a commitment to use it to reduce your mortgage balance. Then when you receive a bonus, an unexpected raise, a bequest from a long lost relative, or other found money, you won't have to think twice about how to spend it. Instead of blowing cash on a new electronic toy or stuffing it in a low-interest savings account, you'll know to put your found money to work reducing your mortgage payoff balance.
  • Create a flexible mortgage paydown plan
    If you want to pay your mortgage off quickly, the key is doing something instead of doing nothing. If you can't commit to one of the above ideas, create a flexible mortgage payment plan that works with your personal finances.You can refinance when interest rates are right and/or double up your payments when you can. You can pay additional amounts toward your principal when you have the extra cash and do the same when you receive an unexpected influx of money.

We Can Help

When you need information about paying your mortgage off quickly, our real estate professionals can help. Contact Columbia Real Estate if you're buying or selling your home or if you want reliable information on home mortgages.

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Feb. 15, 2021

Best Resources When You're Moving to CoMo

 

Moving to a new city can be a little scary. A new home means getting use to a new way of living: navigating your new neighborhood, finding new restaurants and stores, enrolling your kids in schools, and even simple things like where to recycle and catch the bus.

At Century 21 Community, we're here to help. We provide the resources to not only find the best homes in Columbia, but also how to make the transition to your new home as easy as possible.

Getting to Know CoMo

The book 50 Fabulous Places to Raise Your Family calls Columbia "a fast-growing city, valued for its highly educated work force, low cost of living, favorable government attitude toward business, award-winning schools and nationally recognized quality of life." It's an accurate portrait of this vibrant, family-friendly city that also offers countless shopping, dining and entertainment options. Its centralized location also provides easy access to nearby cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, along with outdoor attractions like Lake of the Ozarks and Mark Twain National Forest.

  • Neighborhoods and Geography: Though it is comprised of 36 unique districts and neighborhoods, Columbia is centered on its historic Downtown, which includes some of its most recognizable landmarks, a bustling business district, and the University of Missouri.
  • Cost of Living: Columbia routinely ranks well below the national average for cost of living (median home price for an average home is $150,000) with an abundance of affordable housing in safe, friendly, affordable neighborhoods.
  • Shopping and Dining: In Columbia, you're never more than a few minutes from one of 13 major shopping areas including the region's largest mall as well as the Downtown area with independently-owned shops, bars and restaurants.
  • Education: You'll find excellent schools in Columbia, including four highly-rated high schools, several middle and elementary schools, and the main campus of the University of Missouri.
  • Job Opportunities: Columbia has become a fast-growing city with a thriving economy, many of its newest residents drawn specifically to its abundant job opportunities. University of Missouri Health Care, Columbia Public Schools and Shelter Insurance are among the top employers.
  • Transportation: Located at Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 63, Columbia offers an easy commute to and from surrounding communities, as well as a simple street layout that makes getting around easy. Rail service is available, a regional airport is nearby, and Columbia Transit provides bus service throughout the region. Foot paths and bike trails throughout Columbia make it simple to get around without a car.
  • Life and Culture: There's no reason not to have fun in Columbia. From college football to the annual Roots N Blues N BBQ Festival, there's always something going on. The city also offers a hopping nightlife, with countless bars and clubs, as well as legendary theaters and music venues like the Blue Note and the Missouri Theater Center for the Arts.

Resources for Relocating

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce offers a wide variety of online resources and publications that can help answer all your questions about moving to Columbia, including information on local utilities and telephone service, public transportation, and banking. Our real estate agents will also provide you with any information you need for living, working and playing in Columbia, including how to find the best moving companies in the area.

Moving to a new city is a big step, but it doesn't have to be stressful. Contact C21Community today to learn more about making CoMo your new home.

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Feb. 1, 2021

Columbia MO Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Our real estate agents believe that there's no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by celebrating National Take a Walk in the Park Day on March 30, and there's no better place to celebrate than in Columbia's open spaces! Our beautiful city is full of fabulous parks that will help you get your fill of fresh air.

Why should you lace up a pair of walking shoes and go for a stroll through Columbia's many parks this March? A simple exercise like walking for a half of an hour each day can benefit your body in many ways, including:

  • Boosting your mood
  • Reducing your stress
  • Losing weight
  • Decreasing your potential for certain diseases

Along with these health benefits, a visit to one of Columbia's parks benefits everyone in the community. These open spaces transform and revitalize neighborhoods, act as central locations for children and adults to play, and support the economic development of the city. Our local parks help create a beautiful home for the many families of Columbia.

Visit these great downtown Columbia parks during Take a Walk in the Park Day

  • Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary, 3300 Rollins Rd., Columbia
    Get to know the original residents of Columbia with a stroll through the Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary. This urban wildlife sanctuary is home to many native animals and plants, offering visitors a glimpse at some of Missouri's unique natural landscape. The nature trail is less than a mile long, which makes it the perfect length for those looking for a relaxing walk.
  • Clary-Shy Community Park, 1701 W. Ash St., Columbia
    Who says you can't shop while you walk? Clary-Shy Community Park invites you to explore the Columbia Famers Market every Saturday (which just so happens to be the day for Take a Walk in the Park Day). Support sustainable agriculture while picking out delicious food grown right here in Columbia.
  • Garth Nature Area, 2799 N. Garth Ave., Columbia
    Your furry friends can celebrate National Take a Walk in the Park Day with you at Garth Nature Area. They offer a dog-leash-free area that spans three acres and has a pet drinking station as well as a dog wash station. Those without pets can still enjoy the trails through the wetlands. This area also connects you to the Bear Creek Trail if you want to spend all of Take a Walk in the Park Day outdoors.
  • Stephens Lake Park, 2001 E. Broadway, Columbia
    Stephens Lake Park has something in store for everyone. After you take a relaxing walk on either of their two trails, take advantage of their other amenities. Three playgrounds give kids plenty of room to run, the 11-acre lake is a perfect spot for fishing, and their picnic areas provide a great space to enjoy a meal after your walk.
  • Twin Lakes Recreation Area, 500 Chapel Hill Rd., Columbia
    Sometimes there's nothing better than a quiet walk around a lake. Lucky for you, Twin Lakes Recreation Area has two beautiful lakes to choose from. Take a quick loop around the smaller lake or take your time walking along the bigger one. With a playground for kids and a dock for fishing, it's easy to spend an afternoon at Twin Lakes.

Many of these fantastic parks are located just minutes from great Columbia homes for sale, making it effortless for you to take a walk in the park any day of the year. For more information on Columbia's parks and homes for sale, contact Columbia Real Estate today.

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Jan. 18, 2021

Columbia MO Home Buying - Don't Be Surprised by Closing Costs

Buying one of our local Columbia homes for sale will be the biggest--and probably most expensive decisions--you will make in your lifetime.  While your first home may not be your last, it will certainly present a steep learning curve and a crash course in the home buying process.

If you're a first-time home buyer, then the price you pay for the home isn't the final price you'll pay.  Closing costs can take many a new prospective home buyer by surprise; consequently, our real estate agents put together this handy guide about closing costs when budgeting for your new home purchase.

Closing Costs at a Glance

Closing costs generally make up anywhere from 2% to 5% of your home purchase price, and if you don't have that kind of money in liquidity ready to be paid on your closing date, that could pose a problem.  Closing costs encompass all of the things that go into the home buying process.  Down payment, legal fees, lender fees, inspections, and title insurance are just a few of the things you may be responsible for paying upon closing for your home.

In order not to get caught off guard, speak to a qualified lender who has experience working with all the parties involved in a housing transaction.  These professionals can give you an idea of how much you'll need to have socked away for closing costs and help get you prepared for paying those costs.

How to Save on Closing Costs

Closing costs, generally speaking, are an unavoidable part of any real estate transaction, but lessening that burden at the closing table can be a big win for your pocketbook and give you more flexibility to put more money towards your down payment or into making home improvements.

If you're working with a lender, you may be at the mercy of their connections when it comes to third parties involved in the closing process; however, a good lender should let you have a voice in who you use for some of those services.  Shopping around for home inspections, pest inspections, mechanical inspections, and many other third-party services can save you a lot.  Additionally, try to work with a lender who doesn't require an origination fee for your loan.

Finally, you may be able to work with the seller on some concessions to pay for the required third party services or help you split some of the costs associated with your loan.  Work with your realtor and the seller to negotiate these concessions and see if you can save some bucks.

Use a Title Company

Title companies and their role in real estate transactions take up a big chunk of closing costs, but if you're inexperienced in real estate, it's probably best to stick with using a title company.  A title company's job is to protect you, the lender, and the seller from getting into a property transaction where there may be some issues.

If you choose to not use a title company and do the research on your own, understand that you may be taking a significant risk.

Your Columbia Real Estate Professionals

Contact us at Columbia Real Estate to get started on your home buying journey!

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