We've covered a lot of material for these topics:
There are some general questions on this page as well. If you don't
see the information you need, please contact us and we'd be happy answer any questions you have. |

What should I look for in a new neighborhood?
Everyone is different and the things desirable form one person to the
next vary widely.Check out the following on the areas
you are interested in:
http://realestate.yahoo.com/neighborhoods
Where can I get information on local schools?
http://realestate.yahoo.com/Schools
Where can I find what homes have sold for in a certain area?
This is where the help of a Realtor can make things a lot easier. If
you would like to do the research on your own, much of the information
is in the public record and can be accessed on the Internet:
http://www.tennesseetrustee.com/
How can I find out what my property taxes will be?
This information can also be found at:
http://www.tennesseetrustee.com/
Is there any way I can see information on available homes
before I come to town?
All homes in the Multiple Listing Service are accessible via the Internet. The following
link will take you to SilverPointe Properties listings. You can also search the entire
national MLS system from the PROPERTY SEARCH link on that site:
http://www.silverpointeproperties.com/rdetails.php?agent=29012
How does buying compare to renting?
Reasons you may want to rent:
- If you're new to an area or just starting out, you might want to
start out renting to make sure this is an area you will be comfortable.
- Bad credit can sometimes make getting a mortgage difficult. However,
there are many options available and it's worth researching. See
our section on Understand Financing for
resources.
- If you move frequently, you might not be able to sell your home
and buy a new one in the timing that works for you.
Owning a home is the best decision for
your long-term financial situation. Renting offers no equity, tax benefit,
and most likely no protection against regular rent increases.
- Over the past 30 years, home values have risen more than 6% annually.
- On average, the value of a home nearly doubles every 10 years.
- Sixty percent of the average homeowner's wealth comes from their
home's equity.
- The average homeowner’s net worth is $171,000 – that’s nearly
46 times that of a renter’s, who has an average
net worth of $4,800.
- Homeowners benefit from the power of leverage. At an annual appreciation
rate of 5%, a 10% down payment on a home will return 94% after 3
years. After 5 years, the rate of return increases to 225% and after
10 years, 623%.
There are always advantages and disadvantages to these kinds of choices.
Certain situations can limit your choices. We'd be happy to talk to
you about your circumstances and explore options for you. See our Rent
vs. Buy Calculator (at the bottom of the page) to get a better
idea of how this will affect you.
