First American Blog - The First Word

15 Real Estate Terms You Should Know

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 16:12:54 GMT

Whether or not you are a first time home buyer or have sold and purchased real estate in the past, the terminology your agent will use to explain parts and pieces of the transaction will likely seem foreign. Sometimes, although not intentionally, your agent might use an industry phrase without explaining what it means.

3 Home Renovations To Avoid Before Selling

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 16:40:49 GMT

Are you considering home renovations to increase the value and appeal of your home in preparation to sell? Here are three projects that don’t have the high rate of return you may be looking for.

Should we sell our home or keep it as a rental?

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Tue, 28 Feb 2017 14:34:00 GMT

Many homeowners who are preparing to move from one home to another ask themselves this question. Human nature compels us to cling to the things we care about and consider valuable. In order to make an informed decision here are a few things to consider. This article is strictly meant to be thought provoking and should not in any way be considered legal advice.

Behind the Scenes of the Home Sale Process

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Tue, 17 Jan 2017 17:04:32 GMT

Have you ever heard the expression, “It takes a village?” The process of selling and purchasing a home would be fitting for this expression. A surprising amount of time, expertise, and people are involved in your real estate transaction.

As the buyer or seller, it's normal to experience stress and excitement during the home sale or purchase. It is also common to feel overwhelmed with the number of tasks and decisions you must make. When feeling the pressure of a real estate transaction, look to a professional to lessen the burden and keep these simple tips in mind:

Buyers - When you’re ready, it’s time to go steady. While it may seem more convenient to call the real estate office for each property you find, this approach may not serve you well. Instead, consider committing to one real estate agent exclusively to receive accurate market information and a have a team player on your side.

Sellers - The devil is in the details. Your home may be your pride and joy, but it will be carefully scrutinized by potential buyers. Help boost a potential buyer’s confidence in your home’s appliances and systems by offering a First American Home Warranty.

First American's History of Strength and Innovation [Video]

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Thu, 24 Jul 2014 17:20:00 GMT

As First American celebrates its 125th Anniversary, join us for a look back at highlights from our rich legacy of strength and innovation.

Understanding the HUD-1 Settlement Statement

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Mon, 21 Jul 2014 12:00:00 GMT

NOTE: This post was written before the CFPB's Integrated Mortgage Disclousre changes with TRID. The HUD-1 is now only used in very select types of transactions. Visit http://www.firstam.com/ownership/transaction-disclosures/ for information about the new dsiclosures.

If you’re looking to buy a home this summer, you’re not alone. In fact, warm weather, long daylight hours and school-free schedules make summertime the most popular time of year to buy a home. But before you head off to that open house, it’s helpful to become familiar with the forms and disclosures associated with your transaction.

What is Title Insurance? [Infographic]

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 12:00:00 GMT

Buying a home may be the American dream, but undiscovered title issues – like liens and forgeries – can make that dream a nightmare. That’s why title insurance has been helping protect American homebuyers, sellers and lenders for more than 130 years. Learn more about title insurance – and how it can help protect you and your home.

Understanding the Good Faith Estimate (GFE) [Infographic]

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 11:09:00 GMT

NOTE: The GFE is no longer used in mortgage transactions. http://www.firstam.com/ownership/transaction-disclosures/ for information about the new disclosures.

With temperatures warming up around the country and school officially out of session, the summer home-buying season is in full swing. If you’re shopping for a home this summer, congratulations! Buying a home is an exciting event – but may be complicated for first-time buyers. Becoming familiar with the various forms and disclosures associated with your transaction may help you understand the process a little better.

Interest rates now the lowest of 2014

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Mon, 12 May 2014 19:39:00 GMT

Interest rates on a U.S. home loan dropped across the board in the week ending May 8, but the 30-year fixed rate outpaced them all. As reported by Freddie Mac's latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage dropped to 4.21 percent from 4.29 percent the week prior.

How do you find the best city for raising a family?

webmaster@firstam.com (FirstAm Editor) — Thu, 08 May 2014 14:00:00 GMT

If you're planning to settle down and raise a family soon - or if you're already in the midst of familial bliss - you're likely picky about where you want to live. Some of the many ideal factors might include safety, especially for children, and a low cost of living. Plus, mortgage rates are currently near historical lows, which can be an enticing factor for making a purchase. But in a nation filled with great towns, how do you determine the perfect mix that's best suited for raising a family?