That’s a perfectly reasonable question you may ask yourself, someone else, or the internet. If you’re in the process of buying a home, or even thinking about buying one, the phrase “home warranty” will cross your path. And it’s well worth knowing what it means, how to get one, and whether or not you should […]
Military Member
Deed vs Title
The language of real estate, much like that used in any sort of transaction or activity that necessitates a lot of legal paperwork, can get a bit tricky. Everybody involved will bandy about a lot of phrases and terms, some of which you may have never heard before. Some of them may make absolutely no […]
The Credit Score You Need To Buy A House
We’ve talked about credit scores before here on AHRN, both in general and how they specifically relate to your ability to rent a home or apartment. In this piece we’ll cover the way your credit affects your ability to buy (or not buy) a house. But first a quick recap of what a credit score […]
The Steps to Getting a VA Loan
Most members of the military community have probably heard a thing or two about VA Home Loans. In short, the program provides servicemembers, vets, and some spouses mortgages with zero-money-down loans backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you qualify and want to buy a home, chances are you’ll happily take advantage of such […]
What is a Contingent Offer?
The simple answer is: an offer to purchase a home that the seller has accepted, but won’t be finalized until certain conditions are met. That’s the comprehensively brief explanation. But what’s worth digging into are the kinds of contingent offers you may come across as a buyer or seller. Here are some of the most […]
Purple Heart Day: a Brief History
On May 3rd, 1783, Sergeants William Brown and Elijah Churchill of the Continental Army each received a piece of purple cloth in the shape of a heart with the word MERIT sewn on it. On June 10th, Sergeant Daniel Bissell received one as well. The awards were called Badges of Military Merit. Initially announced by […]
A Quick Guide to HOA Fees
If you’re considering buying a home in a gated, planned, co-op, otherwise organized community, or condominium complex you’ll come across the phrase “Homeowner’s Association” (or its abbreviated form: HOA). If you’re unfamiliar with this term, here’s a quick explanation: HOA’s oversee the management, upkeep and community standards of your neighborhood. Most often, real estate developers […]
12 Questions to Ask Before Renting
Looking for a home to rent – particularly if it’s your first time – can be an intimidating under-taking. While your exact needs and wants are probably as unique as you are, the process of seeking and signing for the right lease is a common one with common factors. Here are a dozen all-inclusive points […]
Renting a Home: Lease Tips
Even when it’s temporary, moving into a home of your own is always a thrill. Whether you’re accustomed to living with roommates, your parents, or with dozens (or more) of coworkers crammed into a barracks, not much compares to that amazing feeling of opening the door to walk into your house or apartment for the […]
10 Tips for Renting a Home
Renting your first off-base house or apartment can seem overwhelming, particularly if you’re used to the relatively simple process of showing up and moving into base housing, a barracks, or a BOQ. While moving off base, on your own or with a family, is certainly a much more complicated process, it doesn’t have to be […]