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The Answer Book for Buyers

For the New Owners

CHECKLIST For the New Owners Before the property changes hands, consult this list to make sure these items are transferred with the house. Owner’s manuals and warranties for any appliances left in the house. Garage door opener(s). ...

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Move With Pets

HOW TO Move With Pets Update your pet’s tag with your new address. Make sure your pet’s collar is sturdy and correctly sized. The tag should also include your mobile number and e-mail address so that you can be reached during the move. ...

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Pack Like a Pro

HOW TO Pack Like a Pro Plan ahead. Develop a master to-do list so you won’t forget something critical heading into moving day. This will also help you create an estimate of moving time and costs. Discard items you no longer want or need....

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Prepare for Your Move

CHECKLIST Prepare for Your Move Update your mailing addressat usps.com or fill out a change-of-address form at your local post office. Change your address with important service providers,such as your bank(s), credit companies, magaz...

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Your Final Walk-Through

CHECKLIST Your Final Walk-Through Closing time is hectic, but you should always make time for a final walk-through to make sure that your home is in the same condition you expected it would be. Here’s a detailed list of what to check for ...

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Track Closing Costs

WORKSHEET Track Closing Costs Be prepared and know who’s responsible for the variety of fees and expenses at the closing table.   BUYER COST SELLER COST OTHER Down payment       Loan origination       P...

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About Title Insurance

WHAT TO KNOW About Title Insurance Title insurance protects your ownership right to your home, both from fraudulent claims against your ownership and from mistakes made in earlier sales, such as misspellings of a person’s name or an inaccur...

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Lower Homeowners Insurance Costs

HOW TO Lower Homeowners Insurance Costs The first step is to shop around; quotes on the same home can vary significantly from company to company. Review the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange report. CLUE reports detail the property...

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About Homeowners Insurance

WHAT TO KNOW About Homeowners Insurance A homeowners insurance policy will protect you against certain losses and damage to your new home and is generally required by lenders prior to closing. Some lenders will collect the money you owe for h...

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Buy in a Tight Market

HOW TO Buy in a Tight Market Increase your chances of getting your dream house in a competitive housing market. Get prequalified for a mortgage. You’ll be able to make a firm commitment to buy and your offer will be more desirable to th...

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