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Renting apartment could lead to identity theft

By Janet Portman, Thursday, September 6, 2007.

Q: I'm applying for an apartment, and the application asks for all sorts of personal information -- my Social Security number, bank account information and employment history. The landlord will also have my credit report. All of this information could easily be used to steal my identity. What recourse do I have to this risky situation? --Cindy A.

A: Careful landlords everywhere ask for this information, and there's no law against it. From their point of view, they're taking a big risk in handing over a very valuable item (their property) to a stranger.  more...

Lease-options perfect for today's home sellers

By Tom Kelly, Thursday, September 6, 2007.

The subprime fallout has made the once-slam-dunk home loans more difficult to obtain. While some neighborhoods continue to be very active, other areas have slowed considerably.  more...

Paying cash for house not smart

By Robert Bruss, Thursday, September 6, 2007.

DEAR BOB: There should be a law requiring home buyers to listen to your advice. I failed to do that when I bought my house in Florida almost two years ago. I have been trying to sell it for over a year. The market in my town is very depressed due to rising property taxes and high insurance costs. I foolishly paid all cash. I have had my house listed with three different Realtors. None could sell it because of the lack of buyers.  more...