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Are multiple title policies necessary for one home?

By Jack Guttentag, Thursday, July 8, 2004.

"My husband and I bought a piece of property in November 2001, and had to buy title insurance. We began building in December 2003 and we had to purchase a new policy in connection with our construction loan. Now we are near completion and getting ready to convert the construction loan to a permanent loan and again we are being told we need title insurance. That will make three policies with premiums totaling about $9,000 in less than three years.  more...

Too many houses, but only one fits

By Dian Hymer, Thursday, July 8, 2004.

Finding a home to buy is rarely easy. Some buyers look for months, even years, before finding the right house. When you do find the right house, a mixed bag of emotions can cloud your good judgment. You'll probably wonder if you're making the right decision.  more...

Tenant discount raises fair housing debate

By Robert Griswold, Thursday, July 8, 2004.

Question: Where can I find a copy of the "Fair Housing Guidelines" for rentals? My landlord keeps referencing them when I want to speak to him about my new lease.  more...

How large a mortgage payment can I afford?

By Robert Bruss, Thursday, July 8, 2004.

DEAR BOB: What percentage of my monthly income can I afford for my mortgage payment? I am buying my first home. My only debt is a car payment with a balance of about $2,500 – Doc R.

DEAR DOC: The answer depends on your mortgage lender. Some conservative old-fashioned lenders say a home buyer's principal and interest mortgage payment should not exceed 28 percent to 33 percent of gross family income. They also specify total debt payments should not exceed 36 percent of household income.  more...