Richard Wamsat’s Real Estate News & Views

Local market updates, buyer and seller tips, and homeowner resources for Orange County and Irvine.

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Existing-Home Sales Report Indicates Now Is a Great Time to Sell

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 14, 2019

Based on the current state of the market, trends are shifting in favor of sellers. If you are going to sell, now may be the time to take advantage of the number of buyers who are searching for their dream home. The best time to sell anything is when demand for that item is high […]

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What You Need to Know About the Mortgage Process [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 11, 2019

Some Highlights: Many buyers are purchasing homes with down payments as little as 3%. You may already qualify for a loan, even if you don’t have perfect credit. Your local professionals are here to help you determine how much you can afford, so take advantage of the opportunity to learn more. Content previously posted on […]

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You Need More Than a Guide. You Need a Sherpa.

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 10, 2019

In today’s world, hiring an agent who has a finger on the pulse of the market will make your buying or selling experience an educated one. In a normal housing market, whether you’re buying or selling a home, you need an experienced guide to help you navigate the process. You need someone you can turn […]

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Homeownership is the Top Contributor to Your Net Worth

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 9, 2019

Recently two U.S. Census Bureau researchers released their findings on the biggest determinants of household wealth. What they found may help shape your view on building your family’s net worth. Many people plan to build their net worth by buying CDs or stocks, or just having a savings account. Recently, however, Economist Jonathan Eggleston and […]

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What FICO® Score Do You Need to Qualify for a Mortgage?

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 8, 2019

It’s common knowledge that your FICO® score plays an important role in the homebuying process. However, many buyers have misconceptions regarding what exactly is required to get the loans they need. While a recent announcement from CNBC shares that the average national FICO® score has reached an all-time high of 706, the good news for […]

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62% of Buyers Are Wrong About Down Payment Needs

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 7, 2019

Contrary to common misconception, a down payment is often much less than many believe. According to the ‘2019 Home Buyer Report’ conducted by Nerdwallet, many first-time buyers still believe they need a 20% down payment to buy a home in today’s market: “More than 6 in 10 (62%) Americans believe you must put at least 20% down in […]

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5 Homebuying Acronyms You Need to Know [INFOGRAPHIC]

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 4, 2019

Some Highlights: Learning the lingo of homebuying is an important part of feeling successful when buying a home. From APR to P&I, you need to know the acronyms that will come up along the way, and what they mean when you hear them. Your local professionals are here to help you feel confident and informed […]

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3 Signs the Housing Market Is on the Rebound

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 3, 2019

The residential real estate market has been plodding along for most of the year. However, three recent reports show the market may be on the verge of a rebound. 1. Existing Home Sales (closed sales) are up, marking two consecutive months of growth. 2. Pending Home Sales (contracts signed) are up with each of the […]

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4 Tips to Improve Your Home and Save on Your Energy Bill

By Richard Wamsat | Oct 2, 2019

By making a few key upgrades to your home, you’ll save on your utility bills and improve the energy efficiency of your home. When you’re ready to sell your house, these key features will make it even more attractive to potential buyers. As a homeowner, it’s important to keep your home running efficiently, not only […]

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