There's not a penalty if it's for a first time home purchase. You'll have to pay regular taxes, sure, but not the extra penalty.
At least not if you file all the paperwork correctly at tax time.
Writing the check has nothing to do with circumventing gift limits—if the house belongs to you, contributions toward the cost count as gifts, regardless of how they are executed.
However, there is a large ($11.7 million) lifetime exemption from the gift tax, meaning that the first $11.7M per giver (across all time, and inclusive of inheritance) doesn't count toward the limit, and only after that does the $15k/year limit kick in. That's what's important in this case. In theory, there's a form you're supposed to file even before the limit kicks in, but people often don't do that.
You should work out the actual mechanics of transferring the money (check, wire transfer, etc.; and whether it goes directly to the title company or to you first) with your mortgage broker. It can matter a lot, both for reasons of timing and avoiding transactions that the mortgage company will be concerned about. It is very likely that a letter will be required from the giver stating (basically) that there are no strings attached to the gift.
dude that simple, and it will curl your toes how sweet it breaks down the hard to git shit.
Depending on where you live, a lawn mower of some kind is probably important.
Since everybody rightfully recommends changing the locks as soon as possible, I am also looking into getting some kind of keypad lock, at the temporary housing we were at it had one of these and it was ridiculously convenient to lock/ unlock without having to fumble for keys. I have read that since this particular model has a longer lasting battery since you have to physically turn the lock after unlocking (unlike the ones that move open electronically), plus with the keyhole you can still unlock it with a mechanical key in case the battery fails
Also a REALLY GOOD HEAVY DUTY TOILET PLUNGER
Yep, we got this one on Amazon. It went into an interior door so we didn't need a flap, just a nice-looking hole, lol. Super simple to install and the cats figured it out right away.
My FICO scores for mortgage was about 50 points higher than my CK score, but very similar to the FICO 8 scores from Discover.
If you want, sign up for a free trial on Experian and then cancel it immediately after you get your 3 credit scores & your FICO home/auto/etc scores. You can even use a Privacy.com card to be safe.
I just logged in and like clockwork, they offered me a free trial YET AGAIN - "Try Experian CreditWorks Premium for 7 days for free, then pay just $24.99 each month. You may cancel anytime if not satisfied."
Good luck on the journey!
You’ll be just fine provided you don’t buy above your means. Your DTI ratio is great. Nice job.
Look into first time home buyer programs for both down payment assistance programs and low credit scores. The programs are designed to help in both situations.
If helpful, use this sources because it’s great at both helping you prepare and also get the grants.Book 1 of Real Estate Knowledge Series
Try to target areas that are within your means, along with getting down payment assistance. In most cases if you’re buying in an area where your income is below 80% of the median income of that area, you qualify for down payment assistance.
These programs can be a godsend for anyone lacking the finances or credit score.
I found this source very helpful at preparing and understanding how to get the grants. Book 1 of Real Estate Knowledge Series
I got some quotes for a locksmith to re-key all the locks in my new house and was told it would be ~$20-$30 per lock.
Instead I got this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00115UPSU/ (when I bought them last month they were $36 each)
It's got one of kwikset's highest security rated deadbolts along with this smartkey feature that allows you to set all your locks to 1 key. You don't actually need to buy the rekeying kit as the lock set included the tool you need. Installed them all myself and it was pretty easy.
We got one of these for our dogs when they bark obnoxiously.
What would I do? I wouldn’t bother with a police report. They removed their own property that you asked them to. Was it perfect timing? Nope. But it is the holiday season, so you can gave some compassion. You don’t know their circumstances (transportation, health, working hours, kids needs, etc.) Change the locks when you get there and buy one of these for each door that leads outside in you house. https://www.amazon.com/Master-Lock-Security-Adjustable-White/dp/B0002YUX8I/ref=sr\_1\_6?crid=2W4458IRP4S01&keywords=door+jammer+security+bar&qid=1669729044&sprefix=Door+jam%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-6
I have one of these mounted to the bottom of a door, but it should work at the top as well. I needed the magnet so the wind wouldn't blow the door closed, and couldn't use the shoe, as the puppy ate it. :)
The magnet is really strong, a bit too strong, so I put a small piece of electrical tape on the mounted side, just to reduce the amount of pull the magnet has and it helps.
It looks like it could also be the base of an attachment for a flag holder.
I recommend schlage keypad ones they're pretty popular something like https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001RFDB6C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1. This way you don't need your phone either just have to remember the code
Likely not - it doesn't take much iron at all to color the water. You can have your water tested pretty cheap, free sometimes through your county/State and they can tell you what you've got.
More than likely something like https://www.amazon.com/SimPure-Upgrade-Universal-Capacity-Mounting/dp/B07V6RY5B4/ will sort it right out.
Look at the electrical panel. How many available slots are there?
Check for ungrounded outlets. You can get something like this to do that:
https://www.amazon.com/Receptacle-Tester-Klein-Tools-RT110/dp/B01AKX3AYE/ref=asc_df_B01AKX3AYE/
Your inspector will do this but you could to.
On the Ac unit the inspector should be able to tell you the age.
Are the walls plaster/lathe or some sort of sheet rock/board product. Probably not plaster since it was 1960 but it could be. Not necessarily bad but can complicate things.
If there’s carpet try and pull up a corner to see what’s under it.
When you do get an inspection be on site for it. Ask tons of questions.
If you have time really vet your inspector, don’t just go with one suggested by an agent.
If there is an attic and crawl space I’d recommend entering both yourself and make sure your inspector goes into both if possible. Not just pokes head in but really goes in. This could be a big ask and some inspectors won’t but you could ask before hiring.
If there are potential foundation issues get a foundation specific inspection/evaluation probably from a structural engineer.
Think that’s everyone off the top of my head. You only have things to lose by not doing thorough due diligence. Yes it will cost you more money but it could save you a ton more plus the stress of dealing with issues down the road that you could have spotted.
>advion roach gel
https://www.amazon.com/Advion-Cockroach-Tubes-Control-Syngenta/dp/B0148W0WOE
The advion really work.
It's this stuff. +1 for how well it works - my first apartment in a city was above a bodega/bar/restaurant. The management was so nonchalant about it that I bought this and never really had an issue after that.
I'm currently using obsidian.md for my notes, including that stuff (I also use a separate instance of it for work notes). My wife prefers a binder with papers printed out.
You kinda just have to try things and find what works best for you. Chances are you'll find something better than searching through old emails and SMS messages though. Whether it be a physical notebook with lots of colorful sticky notes or a searchable notes program, it's mostly just important that you can find what you need when you need it.
24 hours is not nearly enough time. Hook up a pump like this so you don't have to keep emptying it.
Don't feel let down! You'll see better days. For cat pee smell, use an enzyme cleaner. Amazon has one they sell by the gallon for cheap. https://www.amazon.com/AmazonCommercial-Multi-Purpose-Enzyme-Cleaner/dp/B07XQB9YL4
I recommend these lights as an alternative. It shuts off after 17 seconds I believe. They’re also motion detected and dusk lightbulbs.
Radar Motion Sensor Light Bulb, 2 Pack A21 15W (100W Equivalent) 1500LM E26 Dusk to Dawn LED Bulbs Outdoor Lighting, Auto Motion Detector Light for Garage, Porch, Driveway, Patio,(Daylight 5000k) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08D3KJG9L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_X8CV86E2BC7CGY3W7Z5K?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
For something inexpensive and fairly durable, consider these adhesive based treads. We had the paw print ones for 2 years with our kids running up and down daily. They held up very well. I only had to replace one of them in that time and that was because our dog pulled it up.
I recommend buying some 2 sided carpet tape to go with the adhesive backing already incorporate into the tread. The set we had would glow in dark as well but they were very dim.
32" X 12" [Duct Opening Measurements] Steel Return Air Grille | HVAC Vent Cover Grill for Sidewall and Ceiling, White | Outer Dimensions: 33.75"W X 13.75"H for 32x12 Duct Opening https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08K3SBY19/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_gl_i_PFMR27AXZ2PBRT8C9RE7
Here you go: LUCID 10 Inch 2020 Gel Memory Foam Mattress - Medium Plush Feel - CertiPUR-US Certified - Hypoallergenic Bamboo Charcoal, Twin, White https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0861HD92P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QDSJW4MYSS3G6D6ZPA5T?psc=1
Our seller only talks to us through her realtor. He gets lots of government notices, taxes etc. but never responded to us.
Used this stamp to mark Return to sender. The volume has decreased noticeably.
ExcelMark A2359 Self-Inking... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07D4P5PQG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
We bought a 2007 built two story home & just moved in on Sunday. On Tuesday, our downstairs toilet backed up & caused water damage to walls & nearby carpet. The fancy new home warranty we bought does not cover this. We had a plumber come out & snake the clean out. Success. Paid an extra $200 to video it on top of the $200 to snake it. At around 20 feet, after the clay pipe joint, there is notable root intrusion. The plumber recommended we eventually hydro jet, but we can also use copper sulfate. The fancy new home warranty we bought covers snaking & hydrojetting, but not if it’s due to grease or root intrusion. Awesome. I bought 10 pounds of the copper sulfate foaming stuff on Amazon Amazon & have started pouring 2 lbs per night into the downstairs toilet. Lesson learned: BUY A PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION VIDEO SCOPE OF YOUR SEWER LINES. $200 prior to closing could have saved us thousands in water damage repairs & plumbing costs, not to mention the time and headache.
My questions are:
1. Will pouring copper sulfate every 6ish months be enough to keep the roots & problem from arising again? Or do we need it to be jetted?
2. Can anyone tell how far down my pipe is? If we need to dig the line, how deep of a trench would we need?
3. Is there a snake I could rent, or a cheap one I could buy to view the joint after trying copper sulfate? Since the roots are around 20 feet in, I’d imagine I could get an endoscopy scope ~25ft long with a light and may be able to view it. Am I naive for thinking this? I want to see if the copper sulfate is effective & paying $200 again for a 1 minute long video doesn’t rub me right.
We're in the same situation. I personally bought this ebook on Amazon:
So far it's been really informative on renovation work and things we'll need to fix around the house. I'm sure they have a book for general upkeep as well.
A Cheese Platter! This is a great one on Amazon
Aww man that blows. FL seems like it’s one giant sink hole waiting to happen. I know I need to replace a few gutters too but think I can get a few more seasons out of them. Or maybe I’ll just do them slowly over time. We just tied in pretty old downspouts to a drainage system (existing but a POS that we had to fix too) but now I’m wondering if we should have replaced them first. Ah well. Too late now. They should hold for a few yrs longer.
Just bought this shoe scraper because omg fuckin hell until the French drains are installed my yard stays so soppy for days after rain and snow!! 😡
Wow thanks for the award!!! I’m glad some of us can suffer together here. F U, water.
Have never bought a home, but I used to sell home safety equipment. If you're not 100% sure of the age of your smoke detectors, buy new ones. Check the batteries every labor day and memorial day. Get a fire blanket for the kitchen stove and a fire extinguisher for each fireplace and barbecue.
I've known at least three people who had $20,000+ home repairs due to water leaks that could be easily prevented by using water sensors. Brand doesn't matter. Here is an example. Place one near every sink, toilet, dishwasher, water heater. Check them whenever you test the smoke detectors.
My in laws bought a set of these about three years ago and they've already detected two leaks in the home that would otherwise have gone undetected.
>Is there any reading you could point me towards to better understand your train of thought?
Certainly. https://www.amazon.com/Basic-Economics-Thomas-Sowell/dp/0465060730
Interest rates have been at historic lows for 14 years, why? (yes, i know fed reserve is private bank) Banks that failed got bailed out, why? Population increases geometrically without Americans having children, how? ........Your taxes are at all time highs, why?
That's not corporations, thats government. If they stopped interfering in the "free market" we could not pay corporations money we didnt want to pay them. Nearest proof? Experimental mRNA injections that are paid for by tax payer dollars and now de facto mandated by corporations for employees, as they trying to appease government contracts. Dont care how you feel about it just leave people out of it, that dont want any part in it. That goes for so many things.
Maybe....if we stopped trying to cede the government so much more power to solve our problems that government created in the first place, we wouldn't have to have a country splitting fight over it ever 4 years.
I've been looking for how a house works type of resource for such a long time!
This book is incredible. Great pictures, and walkthroughs. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Guide-Repair-Improvement-Updated/dp/158011783X&ved=2ahUKEwi-4JT81I_2AhVhk2oFHezmCiIQFnoECAUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1gvs87w0ROee6q_q1-tECf
Also any book from bigger pockets (if you are on the investing side) is great.
I was in a similar situation last year. I wanted nice, matching things and had no way to haul anything so I went w Amazon. My stuff came in boxes delivered right to the room I needed them in. https://www.amazon.com/Sauder-Shoal-Creek-Dresser-Oiled/dp/B0042JRK5I/ref=pd\_vtp\_3/132-6415595-1002907?pd\_rd\_w=fwFFX&pf\_rd\_p=96226b5f-2d9a-439b-be45-97603787c682&pf\_rd\_r=K3YCXRHEDR8QNKAJD3AN&pd\_rd\_r=374b8442-b628-402a-b041-04...
I would probably buy a tool kit; something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Prostormer-210-Piece-Complete-Tool-Kit/dp/B07JYZVPKP
So go to your meter and see if the meter readings on your bill are close to your current reading and check the meter number. There is usually a spinning disc or something to indicate usage. After locating that go inside and turn off your power at your breaker box. Make sure the meter indicator of usage is no longer moving. This way you know if only your condo is on your meter. If it still moving figure out how to turn it off whatever is using the power.
You can get an energy monitor and install it in your breaker box to see real time how much power your using. Here is an example https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R11H2Q2/
If you install that monitor only on your heater line you can see exactly how much it is using. There is a version you can install over multiple breakers also.
We agreed to live off one income, and the other income went to our house savings fund. Which went great till I was out of a job and currently looking for another.
Right now, we're getting even more financially savoy and we use YNAB which has been AMAZING not just for downpayment budgeting but everything budgeting. They currently have a 4 month free trial going on (https://www.youneedabudget.com/landing/stack-social/).
You can actually use a toner & wand to find where it goes to if you’re worried about cutting it.
Tone Generator Kit, Wire Tracer Circuit Tester, Tone Tracing Probe Kit, 200EP High Accuracy Cable Tester, Line Finder Toner Inductive Amplifier Variable Tone Generator for Network Cable Collation https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08T224QCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_3NJ6V1Q2BSVFF2YQXGJN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Two tools for you:
1) US Mortgage Calculator - I use this in all sorts of ways. You can include taxes to figure out monthly payments. I've also used it to figure out what my future taxes would be when the assessed value of the home goes up (ex: If I know it's a 4% tax rate on a house that's only valued at $210 but is listed at $250). It also gives you the option to add extra payments and see how much sooner you could pay off the home and how much you'd save in interest.
2) Mint - I've been tracking my income and spending for awhile and it's been really helpful. I earn commission and bonuses but this gives me an idea of what my ACTUAL monthly take home is, as well as what my average spending is per month. I funnel a lot into savings, so by the time I get my paycheck again, I usually only have a few hundred dollars in my checking account. This allowed me to see that I'm not *actually* living paycheck to paycheck, I'm really only spending about 30% of my takehome pay (including rent) which allowed me to figure out how much extra room I have in my budget.
Evviva Sciences Mold Test Kit for Home - 10 Simple Mold Detection Tests - Optional Lab Analysis - Test HVAC System, Room Air, & Home Surfaces for Molds/Spores - Includes Detailed Mold ID Guide https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TR3242L/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_BDZNWFK3YTRD78KT0Z8M
Also try your realtor, or any realtor. I found out one of my new friends was a realtor and since then have gotten some great recs - an electrician who made an after hours house call, used some extra parts he had in his truck and still didn't charge anything! Realtors need to get things done right and quickly so they know the people who aren't going to screw them over. Reputations spread like wild fire through that community.
Another quick tip for you - have you tried using one of the around the neck phone holders like this? I was thinking that might help as a kinesthetic learner with youtube or how-to videos.
Oh I definitely have to remind myself on more than a daily basis that it’s not a race, I started to lose my mind before that lol some bits of advice I can offer from a self proclaimed handy female; take your time with projects, over estimate how much time and money it will take (you’ll be sooo much happier when it takes less of either!), prep work should always take longer than the actual task and just spend a looot of time watching youtube/reading because even if you hire out a project you’ll have a better sense of what’s going on, small victories are still victories. You’ve totally got this!!!
I also love this book I got as a gift and recommend, not my only resource but it definitely helps a ton: https://www.amazon.com/How-Your-House-Works-Understanding/dp/1119467616
Get a good impact driver and drill, they’re my two most frequently used tools. Helpful for all types of basic repairs, installing wall anchors, DIY projects, etc. I have some Makita tools similar to these and love them
You’ll be okay. Stay positive. Target to buy by this time next year before interest rates go up (planned in 2023).
So you can plan accordingly, think of and learn about the programs available that can assist you while preparing for your purchase.
First time home buyer programs are created for those who need down payment assistance and/or have low credit scores.
Get this source because it teaches you very effectively and efficiently so you can get into action and not months reading. Book 1 of Real Estate Knowledge Series
Good luck. You got this!
This will work and is harmless to the dogs. I use it to keep my dog from barking while working from home.
Can you provide more steps for what you did? I’m going to do a final walkthrough soon, how do I know if the outlets are all good with the following tool?
KAIWEETS Outlet Tester 48-250V, Receptacle Tester with Voltage Display, GFCI Tester CAT II 300V, Includes 7 Visual Indications and Wiring Legend for Home & Professional Use https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081ZL5PCV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_J32J5V9279J58FGP8YKG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
In regards to asbestos, watch out for vermiculite in the attic space that can sometimes migrate into the walls and other voids. The characteristic shiny mica pieces of debris are often the indication of vermiculite as it can fall down from the attic and end up on top of kitchen cabinets, in light fixtures and even fall to the floor below.
The renovation looks professionally done but if possible ask for records of the dates and cost of the renovation and other documentation like any asbestos analysis reports to further support a high listing price. Ask if any asbestos was covered or encapsulated in the process as often vinyl asbestos tiles (VAT) are layered over to avoid removal costs.
Watch out for any asbestos containing duct tape and fibreboard as noted in your pre-offer inspection or in the seller's inspection report. Sometimes a seller is willing to negotiate on removal of this as relisting comes with a host of questions from new potential buyers.
In a pre-offer or showing inspection, an environmental consultant or asbestos specialist can either collect an air sample or surface wipe sample(s) for TEM analysis to see if any traces of asbestos remain.
If you are looking to learn more about asbestos in real estate transactions please read my ebook it's free for Amazon Kindle Unlimited members or a low cost educational guide for non-members.
https://www.amazon.com/Asbestos-Exposed-definitive-identification-including/dp/B08H566HPS
Environmental consultant and asbestos specialist here.
It is very rare that drywall contains asbestos, typically it is the drywall joint compound (mud) that contains asbestos. The asbestos content of this material is usually low like other redditors commented.
I have worked on asbestos siding removal projects and the risk of exposure (if the siding is in good condition) is low, if the siding remains undisturbed. One can simply look behind existing siding to see if there are layers below, ask your home inspector about this. Asbestos containing siding is fairly thick and is usually on the exterior, it's rare to see it below new siding. It will crumble and break easily if nailed or impacted with a hammer which would hamper installation of new siding.
In your home inspection have the inspector check the condition of walls, floors, ceilings and the attic. If there is no damage and no vermiculite or other PACM in the attic, you should be good to go! In some cases a seller will permit minimally destructive asbestos investigations and this could be another option for peace of mind.
If you are looking to learn more about asbestos in real estate transactions, there is a chapter in my book devoted to this. It's free for prime members.
https://www.amazon.com/Asbestos-Exposed-definitive-identification-including-ebook/dp/B08H2KS528
For what it's worth, I read a bunch of reviews online from different blogs and websites that review beds, as well as Amazon reviews, and ended up ordering a queen size memory foam mattress from Amazon for $563 delivered (Sleep Innovations 12-Inch SureTemp Memory Foam Mattress, now listed for $405). I also bought a cheap metal frame for $100 (Sleep Master Platform Metal Bed Frame/Mattress Foundation), which we replaced after a few years to have something nicer looking.
My wife and I have been sleeping on it since 2014 and have had no problems other than some nights I get a little hot (a common issue for certain people with foam mattresses). In my opinion, standard mattresses are overpriced, and it's not necessarily because they are better quality. (We are in our late 20s.)
You don't want to get WiFi extenders, you want a proper mesh WiFi solution. Something like this is ideal: https://smile.amazon.com/NETGEAR-Orbi-Ultra-Performance-Whole-System/dp/B01K4CZOBS/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=orbi+wifi&qid=1610407324&sr=8-2
Your best bet is to talk to Verizon and buy a cell booster. Typically these are ones that use your home internet and allow you to make calls/texts, but with WiFi calling you may not even need this.
Went to an industrial HVAC supplier and bought the larger version of this brand: https://www.amazon.ca/ClenAir-Odor-Neutralizing-Freshener-Unscented/dp/B002QN4ATQ/ref=pd_sbs_60_5/138-3509532-2003263?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B002QN4ATQ&pd_rd_r=64016e1e-a029-442c-9a41-a94760fb5ea8&pd_rd_w=ttNj6&pd_rd_wg=gbd5b&pf_rd_p=3885b243-7797-4c4b-b0ae-97ca9ec36283&pf_rd_r=8NPAE4E5BDWNJ9NXH4FP&psc=1&refRID=8NPAE4E5BDWNJ9NXH4FP
Used two of them over four months in our furnace and the smell was virtually gone. We also placed some of these in rooms that smelled worse than others. Additionally we cleaned several times and painted. I'd recommend going to an HVAC industrial supply and asking for what they have on hand.
Aside from the obvious things like couch, bed, table, etc here are some things that were suggested to me or things that you may simply not own yet:
I got this one a few years ago. It says it’s unavailable now but maybe they have a newer model. Kwikset 910 Door Lock for U.S., 910TRL ZW 15 SMT (Satin Nickle), by Kwikset, Cert ID: ZC08-15060007 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004F1B24I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ifCoFbKFBRFFQ
Chemist here! Regarding fire extinguishers, you'll want one that encompasses class A B and C. The First Alert Fire Extinguisher is a great option for home use, but any canister that covers the ABC classes is perfectly fine. Here's a helpful chart describing the classes
No problem! Total was ~$5500 Cabinets $2500 Quartz countertops (coming today) $1500 Labor installation $1200 Cabinet handles on Amazon $50