All Forum Posts by: Carla Mastrangelo

hi, 

I am closing on my first property in May, which is a condo. I am eligible for rate of 4.125% at not additional closing costs, however I can purchase a lower rate (as low as 3.875%). I am conflicted about whether or not it's worth it to pay additional upfront costs and have a slightly lower monthly payment or stick to a higher rate with a highly monthly payment but no additional upfront costs. The purchase price is 210k and I'm putting 5% down. I can buy 3.875% for 2k at closing or 4.0% for $1200. Or as I mentioned above, 4.125% at no additional costs. The difference in my monthly payment between 3.875 and 4.125% is $30/month.

Help!

he did inspect the dishwasher actually, but not the fridge or washer and dryer. You say you could understand the washer and dryer not being inspects, but why? Aren't all these appliances the same category, etc? 

So for a home warranty to cover am appliance would it have to be totally not working order...or say it just doesn't preform well (for example the dishwasher that must be 20 years old..but still runs...), would a warranty cover some portion to have it replaced. Also what about electrical fixes--this condo I am buying is in need of ground faulted outlets, as it was built prior to that being a building code. Would this be covered?

Hi! I am under contract to buy a condo which is older and all its appliances convey. I've had the inspection done but it did not assess all the appliances. Just from the look of it, the washer and dryer and dishwasher might not be in great condition or working properly. Is this something that a home warranty will cover? And is it worth having this coverage in general. The seller is paying up to $475 of the first years coverage so I suppose it won't be a cost to me, but I'm not totally clear on how and if I can use this coverage for already existing issues witn the condo. 

Thanks!

Yeah I'm getting mixed opinions on butcher blocks! Torn about what route to go now. Anyone heard of Ecotop bamboo counter tops? 

hi,

I am interested in putting in new counter types that are currently cheap particleboard type material. I would like something either easy to prepare and install myself or something that wouldn't be exorbitantly expensive to have a contractor do. Thinking of butcher block tops but any other suggestions? Also, I'd appreciate any opinions about the cost to have this done by a contractor--the cutting of wood and installation. The project would be for a small galley kitchen and I'm located in central Austin.

Thanks!

ok. That's what I've heard now from a few people, but realistically what is the time line id be looking at--assuming there is just average appreciation and I'm not making any special lump sum payments at any point. At what pint would I realistically have 20% in the property (considering I've started with 5%) also, interest rate on my mortgage is gojnf to be about 4%

hi,

I am about to make an offer on a condo and am trying to determine the details of my financing which includes PMI. The offer I'm making is $228,600 (listing price 239k). My location is downtown Austin, so an excellent neighborhood with I think significant growth potential.

I am considering making a 5% down payment which leaves me with about $160 in PMI. I am curious how long realistically I could have that removed/I would reach approximately 20% equity which I Understand is the requirement for PMI removal. My mortgage lender usually this is occurs within two years, but some people are telling me otherwise. Any advice here? Are there other factors such as appraisal value that can influence the time line for PMI Requirmemts?

Thanks!

hi! Looking to buy property in austin after living and renting here for the last 5 years. Considering condos in the $<250 price range and how it best finance my purchase, ie, how much for down payment, discount interest points, how to have pmi most quickly removed, etc. Looking forward to learning so many new things!