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17 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Consider and How to Avoid Them

Redfin

Not taking advantage of government-backed loans A common first-time homebuyer mistake is overlooking government-backed loans when these programs can make homeownership more accessible. Options like FHA loans , VA loans , and USDA loans offer low down payments and more lenient credit guidelines.

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Can You Get Your Earnest Money Back at Closing?

Redfin

This is more common with VA loans or USDA loans, which require no down payment. You back out due to a contingency you get your earnest money back Most purchase agreements include contingencies that allow you to cancel the deal without penalty. You may receive a refund.

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How to Buy a Foreclosed Home: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Redfin

Government-owned properties Some mortgages are government-backed, like VA loans and FHA loans. If a buyer with a government-backed loan goes into foreclosure, the government will take control of the property. Lenders will typically clear the title and vacate the property before selling it to you.

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What Is an Appraisal Contingency? Understanding This Real Estate Contract Provision

HomeLight

Generally, an appraisal contingency protects a buyer when a home they’ve made an offer on appraises for less than the amount the buyer offered to pay. Appraisal contingencies are just one type of contingency. Other types include a sales contingency , financing contingency, and inspection contingency.

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How Long Can a House Be Under Contract?

Norada Real Estate

Additionally, the type of financing being used, such as FHA or VA loans, can also impact the length of the under-contract period. Home Inspection Contingency One of the most common contingencies that can affect the length of the under-contract period is the home inspection contingency.

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How Do You Sell a House As-is? Everything Agents Need to Know

The Close

Notably, falling below MPR standards could be a deal breaker for some homebuyer programs, such as a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) loan or VA loan. I agreed to sell “as is” at that price, reminding the buyers of their inspection contingency if they wished to back out if they didn’t like my as-is terms.

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How Much Your Inspection Will Cost, And What It Will Tell You

HomeLight

What is a home inspection? When you make an offer on a home, your agent will probably advise you to include an inspection contingency. The cost for a home inspection for a condominium can be less, sometimes just $200, if it’s a smaller unit. Waiving the home inspection contingency could sweeten your offer.