There will be a guest DJ, pizza, door prizes, and games and you get a special evening with your daughter in beautiful Skokie.

It's not often that you get to set aside special father/daughter time, take advanatage of this Chicago North Shore event and make memories now that will let her know how much she means to you! Listen to this to help put you in the senitmental mood!

Before you know it you'll be walking her down the aisle, let her stand on your feet and dance the night away!

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In this Chicago North Shore market, foreclosures are fairly readily available. They typically represent a good deal for the buyer, and if you are ready to purchase a home, you may want to consider this option.

According to a market study, 2012 could be a record year for home foreclosures. So, how do you go about buying a foreclosure home in 2012? What are the steps involved? First, you need to understand the different stages in the foreclosure process. The process varies from one state to another (based on state laws), but the basic stages are the same

1. Pre-foreclosure: Take for example a homeowner that falls behind on his mortgage payments. Maybe he lost some of his income, or perhaps his mortgage payment increased in size due to an ARM loan adjusting. Two or three months after falling behind on the payments, they receive a notice of legal action from the lender. This is the pre-foreclosure stage, where the homeowner has defaulted but the lender has not yet foreclosed on the property. When the lender files a legal record of the homeowner’s default, it becomes public information. During this stage, they might try to get back on track. They can do this through reinstatement, or one of several other foreclosure-avoidance options. They can even sell the home through a short sale, with the lender’s permission. This is one way to buy a foreclosure in 2011 (or a pre-foreclosure, to be exact). If none of these options work out, the bank will eventually foreclose on the home.

2. Auction: This is often the next stage in the foreclosure process, after the bank forecloses on the home. At this point, the homeowner has been evicted from the property. Next, the bank wants to sell the home as quickly as possible, since it’s a “non-performing asset.” An auction is one way to go about it. Bidders who have cash in hand can bid on the home. Generally, their bids must be above a certain starting point. If the property is sold through auction, that’s the end of it. If it’s not sold at auction, the home goes back on the market as a bank-owned house. Sometimes the auction process is skipped entirely.

3. Bank-owned home: When a foreclosure home comes back on the market for sale, it’s usually referred to as a bank-owned home. You can find these homes listed on the two websites mentioned above. The home might have been through an auction prior to reaching this stage, or the bank / lender might have skipped the auction. Either way, you can be fairly certain that the homeowner who defaulted is now out of the picture entirely. From a buying standpoint, most experts agree that this is the safest stage of the process. You might not get the kind of deal you would get during an auction. But you can probably rest assured that the home is “free and clear” of any liens or other legal claims.

If you do your research and have a good real estate agent by your side, buying a foreclosed home can be a great option for you! Of course, it's not for everyone, and there is no shortage of more traditional sales as well. Contact me today to find out which is best for you and your family!

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With the 2012 election season as filling fodder, get ready for some US deficit-sized belly laughter! A skilled musical political parody like no other, the Capitol Steps make their annual January appearance in

The theater's website has this to say about the comedy: "When a ripe 2012 Presidential election season wafts up vapors of inspiration to the discerning noses Washington D.C.'s most prolific political satirists, we are in for some US deficit-sized belly laughter! A skilled musical political parody performance like no other, the Capitol Steps make their annual January appearance at the North Shore Center."

Tickets are $45.50-$49.50 and can be purchased here.

Support this local Chicago musical which starts today and runs through January 29th.

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In this economy, people are looking to cut out any extra costs they can, especially when making a purchase like a home. You may feel like it's not necessary to hire a real estate agent, but here are ten solid reasons why having an experienced, friendly, helpful real estate agent can make a big difference in your home shopping, and buying,  experience!

1 -- Experience 

Purchasing a new home may well be the largest expenditure that you ever make. So it simply makes good business sense to enlist all the help you can get.

A seasoned real estate agent has completed more real estate transactions already this year than you'll likely make in your lifetime. That adds up to a whole lot of knowledge and experience. This experience can help navigate you safely and securely through every aspect of the buying process.

2 -- Knows the Market  

A real estate agent will know what's happening in a particular area, or neighborhood, and help you decide if a home you find is a good value. Once you find a property that interests you, your agent will show you "comps" (comparable properties) of similar homes that have sold recently, as well as those that are currently on the market.

And if your real estate agent works with an established firm, he or she will have instant access to a host of proprietary tools -- and property information -- that may be difficult, or even impossible, to find on your own. All this information will help you make a well-informed decision.

3 -- Saves Time 

A good real estate agent is an organizational genius. He or she will manage to get you in to see new properties as soon as they become available -- and arrange the most appointments possible within your available time slots, no matter how limited.

But remember, accessibility is a two-way street! Be sure to support your agent by being as flexible as possible -- especially when your time is very limited.

4 -- Good Listener 

If you decide to use a real estate agent, look for someone who asks as many questions as you do. When you mention a price range, does the agent give you a 'standard' list of available properties, or is he or she able to make -- or adjust -- his or her recommendations based on what comes up in your conversations?

How interested is the agent in listening to your point of view? How many questions does he or she ask? After all, your real estate agent's recommendations should vary substantially based on your personal needs and goals (for example, you may be starting a family, need to configure your new home to accommodate an office, need space for your son's new car, or be downsizing).

5 -- Tells the Truth (even when you don't want to hear it!)  

Expect that a good real estate agent will challenge you once in a while, ask the tough questions, and yes, even disagree with you occasionally. When he or she makes a recommendation that seems off-base, give your agent the opportunity to give you the facts -- and share his or her knowledge and experience -- before making a decision. Learn to trust your agent's intuition, insights, and perspectives; they'll often lead you in the right direction.

6 -- Respects Your Budget 

One of the most important things that your real estate agent will do is help you determine how much you can afford to spend. He or she may well ask you to consult with your accountant, financial planner, and/or mortgage broker before you make this important decision.

In some markets, there's a lot more to purchasing an apartment than having cash for the down payment, and securing financing. For example, most Manhattan cooperative buildings ('co-ops'), which account for about 75 percent of the properties in the city, will also look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), and your post-closing liquidity (yes, it can be a bit complicated!).

A good real estate broker will understand the particulars of your market, and help you find a terrific housing solution that you'll be able to qualify for financially -- and that will be possible within your budget.

7 -- Team Player

Your real estate agent should be able to recommend a great team of professionals to support your purchase -- from mortgage brokers and appraisers, to contractors and designers and real estate attorneys.

8 -- Getting to Closing  

Remember that finding the right property is only the beginning. Be sure your real estate agent is well prepared to negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and assist you in finding financing, if necessary. Your agent should be ready to follow through with your bank or mortgage broker, any other agents involved in the deal, and with your real estate attorney, until the purchase is complete.

9 -- Gives Timely Updates  

Throughout the buying process, you should stay in touch with your real estate agent regularly. He or she should give you regular updates on new properties, any changes in the local real estate market, mortgage rate changes, and so on. And you should update your real estate agent right away should any of your priorities change, or if your research turns up a property you may be interested in seeing. What’s the result of working together closely? Finding just the home you're looking for, more quickly.

10 -- The Relationship  

Don't underestimate the importance of personality when you choose your real estate agent. You'll be spending a lot of time with them -- and entrusting them with one of the most important transactions of your life. So be sure to find someone you not only trust and respect, but also look forward to working with.

Please contact me today, I would love to help you in your home search. I can help you find the home that is perfect you and your family and make the entire process less intimidating!

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This festival is known for celebrating Chicago's unprecedented appreciation of roots music and culture. Hosted by the Kingtello, Silver Wrapper and React Presents, it features a bevy of homegrown talent that will unite with some of contemporary music’s most accomplished and influential artists for two months of collaboration and cause. Now in it’s 4th year and featuring over 40 acts in the name of a just cause and a plethora of musical styles that have evolved from the Bluegrass and Blues traditions that started it all.

The lineup on Saturday, January 21st can be found here!  The festival starts at 2:00 pm at the Auditorium Theater & January 28, 2012 at the Congress Theater

The headliners for this year includes:  Del McCoury Band, the mad mandolinist David Grisman, Bill Nershi of the String Cheese Incident, the incredible Drive-By Truckers, the folksy flow of Dawes.

Make plans to come out and support our local Chicago artists at this annual festival!

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Some homebuyers are reporting that obtaining financing for a home has been getting more and more difficult. If you are finding it a challenge to qualify for a traditional mortgage, that doesn't mean your dream of owning a Chicago North Shore home has to end. With lending guidelines tighter than ever, many home buyers are looking to alternatives to traditional mortgages and fortunatly there are some options available!

 Here are a few ideas to consider if you are running into road blocks:

• Borrow From Life Insurance: You may have a whole life or other insurance policy that increases in value over time. If you borrow against that cash value, you don’t have to go through standard loan qualification.  Be sure to check with your insurance company about the risks involved
• Owner/Seller Financing: If the seller is an investor, or if the seller owns the property free and clear, they may offer owner or seller financing options to help move the property. You will still be responsible for principal, interest and scheduled payments through a promissory note, but you probably won’t go through the rigorous qualification process that a bank requires. Typically owner or seller financing also saves mortgage origination fees and other fees tacked on by most lenders.
• Borrow From An IRA: If you have a self-directed IRA, then you know that you can use the IRA to invest in a number of assets, including mortgages. Although you can’t use your own IRA to buy your personal home, a family member or other investor can use a self-directed IRA as the investment vehicle for your property. Private investors often step in to help with acquisition loans, although you can expect to pay a higher rate for the initial loan.
• Lease/Purchase Option: Many investment owners are willing to offer a lease/purchase option or rent to own agreement. You are able to rent the property for a specific term, usually with higher payments than the market rate; and your rents go toward the purchase or down payment of the property.

Do you have any tips to share on alternative financing or have you found other options than what is listed here? Contact me today, we'd love to know about other options that can help homebuyers!

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The Curragh Irish Pub
January Special: With a copy of their coupon page, receive a free appetizer with the purchase of two entrees.

•Mondays - $2.50 domestic bottles
•Tuesdays - $16 Corona buckets
•Wednesdays - $5 martinis and karaoke starting at 10 p.m.
•Thursdays - Drink like an Irishman with $1 off Guinness, Smithwicks, Harp and some Irish whiskeys
•Fridays - $4 flavored vodka bombs and 1/2 price appetizers from 4 to 6 p.m.
•Saturdays - $4 drink of the day
•Sundays - $4 Bloody Mary's
The Curragh Irish Pub is located at 8266 North Lincoln Avenue and can be reached at 847/675-9600 or www.skokiecurragh.com.

Tub Tim Thai
January Special: Mention "Downtown Skokie Deal" and get the "Hungry Hound Channel 7 ABC Set" for only $35 (regular price $40).  "Set" includes:

•Appetizer: Meang Kum + Thai Crispy Crepe
•Choice of Salad: Papaya Salad or Chicken Salad
•Entree: Sizzling Salmon Curry served with Rice
•Dessert: Sweet Rice with Mango (if out of season, replace with Fried Banana with Ice Cream)
Tub Tim Thai is located at 4927 Oakton Street and can be reached at 847/675-8424 or on the web at www.tubtimthai.com.

Village Inn
January Special: For the month of January, two BIG Village Inn specials are:
•Order one pizza and get the second pizza half price during National Pizza Week (January 8 through 12). See website for details.
•NFL Playoff Game Package - One two topping pizza and two pitchers of domestic beer for $25. See website for details.
Ongoing weekly specials include half off pizza every Tuesday from 3 p.m. to midnight (dine-in only) and daily $5.95 lunch specials.

The Village Inn, located at 8050 Lincoln Avenue, can be reached at 847/675-3737 or visit them on the web at www.villageinnskokie.com.

Do you know of any hidden culinary gems in the Chicago North Shore that we should know about? Share them here! Happy eating!

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We are hearing that lenders want to make loans in

Most buyers are wanting to know how they can secure the rock bottom interest rates. The truth is, they may be reserved for top tier credit risks – borrowers who have scores of 720 and above. Your banker is also looking for thorough documentation of your income and assets. Keep in mind that from mortgages to car loans, your credit history and score matter more than they did

If you're buying a new home or refinancing the mortgage on your primary home, you'll need a minimum down payment of 5% to 10% for a conforming loan or 10% to 15% for a conforming jumbo loan (125% of a metro area's median home price, up to $729,750).

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will take a credit score of 620 if you have at least 25% equity in the property or a score of 660 with equity of less than 25%. Oh and that debt to income? Make sure it’s at 36% or less.

In addition to stellar credit history lenders look for:

•Proof of income – You’ll need to show pay stubs for the past 30 days and W-2 forms for the past two years, along with retirement-account and investment statements.
•Self-employment – Be prepared to give up  two years of tax returns and keep your fingers crossed. It’s become harder than ever for declared income borrowers to get mortgages and other lines of credit.
•Rental income - You can use only 75% of rental income to qualify for a mortgage, along with 30% equity in your former home.

Even if you are preapproved, you will be subject to a second or final approval – lenders will pull a second credit report before closing. If you have taken on any new debt, your deal may go right out the window. Home equity loans are tougher to get now as well. In most areas you'll be able to borrow no more than 80% of the appraised value – and that’s with your perfect credit score.

The bottom line – take good care of your credit. It can be very challenging in this recession but your credit history and credit score are more important than ever. Bad lending practices have resulted in tight standards that will give credit only to the top tier borrowers who have enough cash and income that they may not even need to borrow money in the first place.

Contact me today to learn how you can improve your credit and buy the perfect home for your family.

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This weekend Skokie

Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Alan Heatherington present a trio of soul-soothing Sunday serenades.  Discover how three of the greatest masters sidestep their symphonic seriousness to bring you spirited, sensuous works.  The program includes Dvorak’s Serenade, Mozart’s Serenade No. 12 and Brahms’ Serenade No. 2.  All three works represent these composers at their inspired and inspiring best.  Indulge in great music, expertly played and brought to life by Maestro Heatherington and these brilliant musicians.  Children 4-11 are welcome to attend for free and participate in our Music for Life program.

Founded in 1995, Ars Viva is distinguished by its talent. Its programs often juxtapose beloved masterworks with less familiar repertoire.  Friendly, informative remarks from the stage by Maestro Heatherington provide context for the music and establish a welcoming atmosphere at each concert.

 The show starts at 3pm this Sunday, January 8th. Kids 4-11 are free, adult tickets can be purchased here.

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While it's not uncommon for mortgages to be sold, many

The important part is not to panic when you get the news. This transaction may be seamless or you might have problems with the new changes. As a potential home buyer or a current homeowner you should have an understanding of what has happened and what your rights are.

If this happens you will probably receive a statement when you got your mortgage that indication some level of likelihood that your loan might be sold during its life to another lender. If that does happen, then federal mandates require both the seller and the buyer of your paper to notify you of the pending sale and the closed sale.

Your current lender must notify you, in writing, at least fifteen days before your next payment is due. The lender is also required to give you complete contact information – company name, physical address, phone number and account manager of the new servicer.

The servicer buying your loan is required to provide this information to you as well. They are required to provide a direct link to a person you can speak to – not just an automated system.

This requirement protects you from mortgage scams directing you to send payments to an unknown entity via P.O. Box or wire and gives you the right to ask questions about the status of your loan and receive prompt answers. In addition, you are protected from any delinquency status for 60 days during the transition.

If you are behind in payments, your loan will likely stay put, as most aren't interested in purchasing problem loans. If you have an application in for loan modification, your loan will probably not be sold as well. However, if it is sold after you have started the loan modification process, be prepared to provide additional paperwork or even start over with the new lender.

Contact me if you have any questions about what happens when your mortgage is sold. I would be happy to help!

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Whether you’re throwing an epic bash in Chicago's North Shore or staying in this New Year’s Eve, be sure to make the last hours of 2011 the tastiest!

Come to Whole Foods Market Sauganash to enjoy live music and sample some of our favorite sparkling wines, appetizers and treats, perfect for welcoming 2012 in delicious style!

Directions to the Whole Foods Market can be found here. Join your community to sample food and have a great time on Friday, December 30th from 5pm-8pm.

Have a safe and Happy New Year!

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One of the most common misconception about appraisers is that they work for the home seller. Actually, appraisers are hired to be impartial and provide an accurate "value" to your home in order for lenders to determine if the collateral supports the debt. These same lenders are also putting a lot of pressure on appraisers which result in higher than market value home appraisals.

If you are buying or selling a home it is a good idea to do some research on the role of appraisers and how they effect you. 

Below are some quick facts your should know about the appraiser and the process:

•Appraisers are licensed by individual states after completing coursework and internship hours that familiarize them with their real estate markets.

•The lender might use an appraiser on its staff, or contract with an independent appraiser. If you are allowed to choose the appraiser, and it isn't someone the lender is familiar with, the results might be subject to review before they are accepted.

•The appraiser should be an objective third party, someone who has no financial or other connection to any person involved in the transaction.

•The property being appraised is called the subject property.

•You will probably pay for the appraisal when you apply for your loan.

What You'll See on a Residential Appraisal Report

Appraisals are very detailed reports, but here are a few things they include:

•Details about the subject property, along with side-by-side comparisons of three similar properties.

•An evaluation of the overall real estate market in the area.

•Statements about issues the appraiser feels are harmful to the property's value, such as poor access to the property.

•Notations about seriously flawed characteristics, such as a crumbling foundation.

•An estimate of the average sales time for the property.

•What type of area the home is in (a development, stand alone acreage, etc.).

Have you had any experience with home appraisers? Share your thoughts with us!

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In the story of

Ticket prices range from $32-$92.

The performance will be at the Cahn Auditorium which is located at 600 Emerson Street (at Sheridan Rd.) Evanston, IL

This Northern IL event is intended for children ages 6 and older and runs from December 23rd to January 1st.

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If you planning on buying a home in the

1. It's a good idea to inform your children about moving as soon as possible and not delay the news. Children need time to let the big news sink in and you will need the time to help them prepare!

It can be natural to assume that the less time kids have to think about moving, the easier it will be for your children. However, experts say it is actually the opposite. Kids need time to get used to the idea of moving. Don't put off telling them about moving.

2. Welcome your children's questions about moving.

Open lines of communication will go a long way toward helping your children feel comfortable with moving. And it's okay even if you can't answer all their questions right now. Your kid's questions can give you an idea of how they're feeling about moving — whether they're excited or uneasy. Some questions may also offer an ideal way to get them involved in the moving process, such as suggesting they get online to locate nearby libraries or parks.

3. Be positive and upbeat about the move.

Your attitude about the move will influence your children's attitude as well. If you dread moving, then the move will seem dreadful to them too. Be enthusiastic, upbeat, and positive about the new experiences and opportunities in store, and your children will be more likely to feel the same way.

4. Let your children know they can help with the move.

This is a good time to emphasize that the move is a family event and that everyone will be part of the planning, packing, and perhaps even choosing the new home. Start your kids on thinking of things they can do and how to get ready for the move. Assure your kids that their contributions, however small, will be valued and greatly appreciated

Have you been through this before? We would love to hear your tips on making the move to a new home a smooth transition for kids!

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Calling all wine connoisseurs in Chicago North Shore! Here is a fun and free event you will love! Wine and Spirit Warehouse in Libertyville offers a full schedule of wine classes to the public! Every Friday visit their Learning Center to test a variety of wines and get $5 off your purchase of any of their featured wines!

The next class is December 16th from  5-7:30pm

Too many people buy wine without ever tasting the product that they're buying. Their Learning Center has been set up to allow our customers to become acquainted with a wider variety of wines. To learn their "likes" and "dislikes." They bring in wine experts to share their knowledge and help customers wade through the wonderful world of wine.

Register through the Wine and Spirit Warehouse website to get your free spot in the class!

Book now and take a break from the holiday shopping for a relaxing and free wine tasting on Friday night in beautiful Chicago!

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Winter is in full swing in

 Snow Blowers

Also called snow throwers, these come in both gas and electric. If you don't have too long a driveway, electric snow blowers provide an alternative to heavy, high-maintenance gas snow blowers. While they are sometimes less powerful, they typically require less maintenance. Gas snowblowers will have a wider clearing width and you don't have to worry about the cord but they are more expensive and require more maintenance such as tuning and yearly checkups.

Professional Snow Removal Services

If you prefer to just hire a professional to clear the snow for you, commercial snow removal companies are the way to go. Snow removal cost can vary greatly, and some companies will offer a lump sum seasonal rate for businesses or residential. Others will charge on a each time basis which can range from $35 to $100 and up. The downside can be a long wait if you are not a regular customer and a big storm hits. It is important to make sure the person you hire is experienced and insured. Visit the Snow and Ice management association's website to find a qualified company near you.

Lawnmower/Tractor Attachments

If you have a long driveway and have a riding lawn mower or lawn tractor, you may want to invest in a blade attachment or snow blower attachment for snow removal.  These attachments fastens to the front of the mower and throws snow or plows to the front or side. For longer and wider driveways, a snow plow attached to the front of the mower can quickly remove large amounts of snow. You can also purchase tire chains to help prevent the mower's wheels from spinning in their tracks.

 Shovels

Some homeowners prefer to use the tried and true traditional snow shovels and moves the snow themselves. It is important however to consider your physical condition. If you have a heart condition or other health issues, you should proceed with caution. Snow is heavy and shoveling is hard work - you don't want to risk a serious injury or jeopardize your health. On the positive side, it is a great way to burn calories and it doesn't cost you a thing!

A winter wonderland comes with a little work! Have experience in this area? Share your snow removal tips with us! 

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Is the 

Chris Isaak has earned his success the hard way - by delivering excellent work, both onstage and in the studio on a series of albums.

His career is highlighted by Top-10 international hits and the infamous music video for the song, Wicked Game.

Don't miss his one day show in Skokie at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts on December 10th at 8pm.

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The difficult economy has turned many lives upside down and has created many desperate

These scam artists are taking advantage of these homeowners and it has been reported that mortgage fraud scams are on the rise. According to FBI reports, an estimated $4 billion to $6 billion in annual losses result from mortgage fraud. An experienced realtor is well aware of these types of scams and will be a great line of defense in protecting yourself from scams.

These real estate scams not only affect the person scammed but can also result in a spike in foreclosures, which can cause home values to sink as well as contribute to lenders raising their rates and fees to recover losses.

So how can you identify these scams and protect yourself? The reality is that these scammers are always finding new ways to defraud, and these crimes are often complex, involving several parties and occurring over multiple transactions. Anyone can fall victim to a scam so pay attention to detail and stay vigilant. Educate yourself about mortgage fraud and be on guard for any warning signs in a transaction.

Below are some of the most common scams that are happening now. Be aware and stay on top to of anything that appears suspicious. Remember the saying "if it seems too good to be true, it probably is!"

Be Aware of this Scam: This scam is where so called “rescuers” prey on homeowners on the edge of foreclosure by promising that they can save it. They persuade homeowners to pay for different fees and fill out fake forms and other tricks. In the end the homeowner still looses their home to foreclosure anyway. These scammers prey on desperate homeowners who will do anything to save their home.

Beware of foreclosure rescue programs where you are asked to sign over the title of your home to a third party, are asked to not contact their lender, or send mortgage payments to a third party. These are all big red flags to be aware of.

Be Aware of this Scam: This scam is when a borrower provides fraudulent financial information like income and assets so they can qualify for a loan with lower rates and more favorable terms. Lenders show suspicion when red flags such as PO boxes are listed as the employers address or if the applicant has no credit history. These type of scams eventually cost everyone as the costs and losses involved from the borrowers are passed to consumers.

Be Aware of this Scam: This particular scam is increasing and is called Appraisal Fraud. This happens when an appraisal is faulty, when it states that a property is worth more than what it really is. Typically when an appraisal is listed as higher than it actually is generates false equity because a fraudulent appraisal document has been obtained indicating the higher value. Beware of appraisals that are dated prior to the sales contract as well as other red flags such as if the owner is not listed on the contract or title.

Mortgage and real estate scams are unfortunately on the rise and new schemes are being exposed every day. it is important to stay vigilant and always ask questions. There are many excellent websites available that have alerts for consumers and useful information to help Chicago North Shore consumers stay aware.

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The premier performance venue on

This Sunday, December 4th at 3pm come listen to Beethoven: Consecration of the House Overture . Arrive early for pre-concert lectures which begin at 1:45pm.

This is the Winner of the 31st Young Artist Competition Mendelssohn: Symphony No.4 in A major.

The award winning theater and symphony are perfect for an afternoon outing in Chicago's North Shore.

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For many first time

Here is some information you should know about closing costs before you begin the home shopping process!

Find out the fees the bank will charge you for in conjunction with loan. Ask your bank for the list of fees associated with the loan. Fees vary from state to state and bank to bank. Typical and approximate fees include: Appraisal fee, Survey fee, Cost to run the credit report Loan origination fee, Tax service fee, Underwriting fee Flood certificates, etc.

1. Pre paid items that you will have to pay for a year in advance will be added to the closing costs. They include interest paid for a year in advance as well as hazard insurance on the home.

2. There will be additional reserve payments added to the closing costs such as an additional two months of hazard Insurance, two months of taxes, and two months of mortgage insurance.

3. There will be title charges that transfer ownership of the home to you in the closing costs. The include may include title policy fees (which depends on the loan amount), endorsements and a courier fee.

4. You will also have to pay the local recording authority to record your ownership of the home. You will have to pay for recording fees, documentary stamps and intangible taxes, which will vary by state.

5. Add all of these items together and if you are using a real estate attorney, you will need to add their fees and any remaining down payment that you owe, and you will have your closing costs calculated.

The closing process can be confusing and most home buyers will have questions. If you have concerns on closing costs and the process, contact me and I can help!

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