Buying your first house isn’t about perfect timing, it’s about readiness. The market’s noisy, advice is all over the place, and most people are still guessing. Nearly 80% of Americans say it’s a bad time to buy a home, according to a 2024 report. That’s a record level of pessimism, and a lot of it…
Can I get a mortgage without a credit score? Yes, but it’s not simple, and it’s definitely not for everyone. I was a mortgage broker for a year back in 2000. I couldn’t believe these loans existed. But I was 21. I didn’t know any better. You could skip the credit pull entirely and still…
It’s hard to know how much house you can afford. Actually it’s easy to know how much house you can afford. It’s hard to know how much house you should afford. The McDonald’s Principle When I bought my first house, I developed The McDonald’s Principle. It was simple, clever, and powerful. It was my way…
Buying a house can feel like a game you weren’t taught the rules to. One wrong move and you’re stuck with a home with constant repairs or a daily drive that makes you question your choices. It’s exciting, sure, but only if you know how to play it smart. I’ve been a real estate investor…
I often get asked how I was able to buy so many houses with such low income. I bought my first house in my early 20s while unemployed. Since then, I’ve purchased over a dozen more with a total of $800 out of pocket. Total. For all but one of those purchases, my salary was…
“Get out of debt” is one of the most overused lines in personal finance, and it’s not wrong. But it’s also not the full story. Some debt will drain your money. Some can actually help build wealth. Here’s the part no one tells you: over 70% of total U.S. household debt is in mortgages, and…
If you want a house that looks sharp without draining your bank account, you don’t need a full remodel. A few smart updates can make your home feel fresh, modern, and dialed in, without the hassle. In just the first quarter of 2024, homeowners spent $463 billion on renovations. But the real value often comes…
Real estate is a vast field with countless niches, making it challenging to determine where to start. When I was a teenager, I used to go to the library and read books on real estate. I also stalked the for sale ads and for rent ads in the newspaper. One piece of advice I remember…
Many homeowners don’t realize how much damage common kitchen waste can cause to their plumbing. A small clog might seem harmless at first, but it can quickly turn into a serious problem. As a landlord with over 22 years of experience, I’ve seen it all when it comes to plumbing disasters. The repair costs have…
Buying your first home is an exciting journey filled with big dreams and new possibilities. It’s a major step towards building your future and creating a space that truly feels like your own. But let’s face it, this adventure can also be pretty scary and overwhelming. There’s a lot to learn, and making mistakes can…
Del Walmsley promises financial freedom through real estate. His company, Lifestyles Unlimited, teaches people how to use leverage, rental income, and mindset to retire early. But does Lifestyles Unlimited work? I’m a CFA who retired young using real estate and traditional investments. I’ve reviewed his program, its methods, and its messaging. Here’s what I found….
When it comes to buying or selling a home, the inspection process can make or break the deal. It’s the moment where hidden flaws come to light, turning what seemed like a dream home into a potential headache. With over 20 years of experience as a real estate investor and landlord, I can confidently say…
My wife and I had a conversation recently about whether or not we should pay off our 2.3% mortgage or let it ride? It’s the kind of debate that gets people fired up. Some swear by the peace of mind that comes with being debt-free. Others argue that it’s a financial mistake to throw cash…
I’ve been in real estate long enough to see what happens when homeowners ignore routine maintenance. A loose pipe, a foggy window, a slow leak, none of it feels urgent until it wrecks your budget. According to recent data, the average household spent $2,458 on home maintenance and $1,667 on emergency repairs. Some of the…
Mortgage rates are always a hot topic in the news. Whether they are up or down they are newsworthy. There is a way to save on your mortgage and get a better great rate, regardless of whether rates are rising or falling. Mortgage points have always been a source of confusion, and fear for many…
Let me tell you a secret, my friends. I’ve been in the real estate game for quite some time now, and I’ve seen it all. The good, the bad, and the downright ugly. And one thing I can assure you is that having the right real estate agent by your side can spell the difference…
