Villa on the Hill

Real Estate, Property Values and Homeowner Resources

How To Choose A Contractor

Home improvements and repairs can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints. When selecting a contractor: Get recommendations and references. Talk to friends, family and...

Tags: Homeowner – Repairs – Consumer Information

Obama Loan Modification Plan Explained

The key components of Obama's foreclosure-avoidance program are loan modification and loan refinancing. The details of this provision has created an extraordinary opportunity for millions of people to either...

Tags: Homeowner – Thrifty – Mortgage – Staff Pick

Pros And Cons Of Owner Financing

Find out the possible advantages and disadvantages of an owner-financing arrangement for both the home seller and potential buyer. If you’re considering entering into an owner-financing arrangement for...

Tags: Homeowner – Staff Pick

Funds for Handyman-Specials and Fixer-Uppers

The purchase of a house that needs repair is often a catch-22 situation, because the bank won't lend the money to buy the house until the repairs are complete, and the repairs can't be done until the house...

Tags: Homeowner – Financial

Does Mortgage Aid Hurt Your Credit Score?

Homeowners seeking mortgage help through loan modification programs such as HAMP and HAFA, may face another issue—lower credit scores. Loan Modification and Credit Scores Homeowners on the verge of...

Tags: Homeowner – Credit – Mortgage – Foreclosure

FHA Home for Sale - How to Buy a HUD Home

Almost anyone can buy a FHA foreclosed home, offered by HUD, and usually get a good bargain. What Is a HUD Home? Let's say someone has bought a residential home with a Federal Housing Administration (FHA)...

Tags: HUD Home – Mortgage – Homeowner

FHA Loan Requirements Are Changing

FHA reform is changing the rules for securing an FHA-insured mortgage loan, but FHA loans still provide the best opportunity for those who don’t meet the requirements of a traditional home loan. By now...

Tags: Staff Pick – FHA Loan – Homeowner

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