Miscellaneous Notes

For those of you who will be selling their home before buying another one in NJ, be sure your Realtor tells you about the new water testing regulations.

Did you know that home inspections are not mandatory for a mortgage approval? There are times when they may be needed.

When buying a home with a septic system do you know what test is best to see if the septic system is working properly?

If you decide to hire a Home Inspection company do you know which one would be most likely looking out for YOU and not the other parties involved?

Did you know that you are permitted to use an Attorney of your choice when purchasing a home in New Jersey? A word of caution - it may not be wise to use an Attorney who does not have experience in Real Estate closings. We suggest using a specialist. Use a Real Estate Attorney when purchasing a home in New Jersey. When building a home use an Attorney who understands building contracts and all aspects of construction financing. Your Attorney is a key person in your real estate transaction.

When refinancing your home in New Jersey you may use an Attorney or a Title Insurance company. Which one is better for you?

Did you know that pre-approvals for mortgages when presented with a purchase contract are as good as the paper they are written on? What can you do to make one mean something?

Did you know that a Real Estate purchase agreement when presented as an offer to buy is as good as the next offer coming in from another Real Estate agent? How do you present a stronger purchase offer?

Did you know that you do not have to pay off your land before you can obtain an approval for a construction loan?

Did you know in Pennsylvania you may be obligated to pay one full year's Real Estate/School taxes at closing?

Pennsylvania does NOT have an automatic "Time is of the Essence" clause (as they do in New Jersey) in their purchase contracts. Your Realtor should add this to your contract.