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Often overlooked in a lease-purchase or lease-option agreement are the details of the lease period. It’s important for buyer and seller alike to recognize that prior to the end of the lease period, one party will be the tenant and the other the landlord. As such, the seller should provide a standard rental agreement detailing […]

Lease-purchase vs. lease-option Rent-to-own transactions are separated into two very distinct categories: lease-purchase agreements and lease-option agreements. Lease-purchase agreement – In a lease-purchase agreement, the buyer and seller agree on a purchase price. This is typically at market value, if not slightly above. The option money may be a substantial amount, and is nonrefundable. During […]

Best of Both Worlds?: Rent-to-Own Some sellers uneasy with fluctuating home values and buyers facing financing issues are looking to a solution more frequently reserved for the automotive industry: rent-to-own agreements. While not a perfect option for every buyer or seller, a lease-purchase or lease-option agreement can be a viable real estate solution for many […]

Winter is a time for gatherings, from formal office parties to traditional dinners to small, casual get-togethers of old friends. But spreading all that holiday cheer can be a lot of work, particularly for those hosting an event. Above all else, planning and hosting winter a party can be a huge financial commitment. Footing a […]

8) Conserve Energy The volatility of energy markets can easily result in fluctuating utility bills that leave homeowners in the lurch. To minimize the unpredictable impact energy has on your budget, make a point of conservation: Turn the thermostat down 2-3 degrees. A little mild discomfort will be offset by far greater energy savings. Wear […]

6) Have an Emergency Reserve While it’s not necessary to start stuffing hundred dollar bills under your mattress (the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation now insures savings and checking accounts at banks and savings&loans for up to $250,000, making banks a perfectly safe place to store your money), having easy access to a store of liquid […]

4) Trim Excess Spending With your monthly budget in hand, you’re now equipped to start reducing spending. Some experts will tout the need to avoid “large expenses” such as big screen TVs, new cars or big vacations. While minimizing spending splurges is obviously prudent in tougher times, it’s unrealistic to think that most consumers will […]

2) Are You “In the Red”? Are you spending more money than you’re earning on a monthly basis? The variety and ease of credit has helped many of us lose site of the bottom line. Evaluating your cash flow is the first step towards realizing stronger financial footing. 3) Create an Itemized Budget Once you’ve […]