Paul B. Perez

I think this stuff is populated from either the MLS or Tax Records. If either one of them doesn't populate correctly, then this is what you are left with. Nice place though. I don't think the square footage is correct either? - Thu Apr 9 2009, 10:02

This condo is for lease for $885 and has a sale price of $94,000.

Happy Hunting,
Paul - Wed Apr 8 2009, 18:08

I am familiar with Austin and have personally seen the permitting process in its glory. The old adage rings true in this situation "It looks easy on paper". The horror stories are still happening and it boils down to the individual inspectors. Some say Toma-Toe some say Toe-mae-toe. If one inspector tells you to do it a specific way then is unavailable for the re-inspection, the other inspector will say that you should have done it the other way. If you deviate from your original plans and upset the inspectors, they will pull the "re-submit your plans" card, which they know takes an average of 7+ months to be re-approved. You should consider paying a reputable contractor to deal with the hassles of the city and the building or renovations. I would recommend
Brewerton Construction –
Mark Brewerton,554-6275
& Todd Oosterhouse, 554-8633
Happy Renovations! - Tue Apr 7 2009, 08:11

Austin-Area Teachers get some great deals! There are a few different programs that you can take advantage of that not everyone is privy to. You are deffinately looking in the right price range, so keep it up. As for your pre-qualification letter, yes, it is best to talk to a lender first! Actually, talk to a couple! There are different banks out there with different fees. Go to a credit union first, get the G.F.E. (Good Faith Estimate) and then shop it around. This will help you further define what you can afford and what you should be looking at. If the lender says you are pre-qualified for 150k, then it's my advice to look for something at about 130k, because you never know! Also, you may still be able to find a 80/10 loan, this will help you save money in PMI, which is only needed when your Loan-to-Value is above 80%.

Also keep in mind that your closing costs will be about 3% so your 10k is going to be more like 7k at the end of the day, and thats being generous. If you find an owner financing deal, which there are several, then you will usually be able to afford more house than would usually be afforded to you.

Check out my blog for first time homebuyers, it is chaulk full of helpful hints and guidlines in your first time home buying adventure! Oh yes, you will also get a nice 4k check from uncle sam next year if you buy before December 1, 2009. - Sat Apr 4 2009, 16:15

James,

It is absolutely legal for your brother to buy a home here in Texas. There are a few more lending requirements that have to be met in order to qualify for a loan. If he is paying cash then he will need to establish himself with a Tax Payer Identification number. It seems he would be buying an investment property, if this is the case, take a look near campus, you will find a much more protected investment there.

Happy Hunting! - Sat Apr 4 2009, 06:54