Real Estate Advantages of Living in a College Town

Houston is proud to be home to the University of Houston, Rice and Houston Community College.   Many investors focus on college towns because they are great places to buy rental properties; demand is usually high, rental prices are high and vacancy rates remain low.

 

In Houston, this summer, the average home price was around $174,900 and rental prices averaged around $1,200 for a 2 bedroom home.   The average mortgage payment would be $710.00 if you put 20% down and went with a 30 year fixed rate loan product!  

What are Lenders Looking For?

Lately, buyers have wanted to know what lenders are looking for.   Well, the Chief Economist for Freddie Mac summed up the answer very nicely. œIn today’s lending environment, it’s also important to remember the 4-C’s when looking for a mortgage: capacity, capital, collateral, credit,” he said. “In other words, have stable income, have assets or savings, be prepared to make a common-sense down payment, and have a good credit history.”As a buyer, you need to know your FICO score and to read the fine print in all documents concerning your mortgage.   Pre-Approval letters are not a guarantee of you getting a loan.   Talk to your lender before you start looking at homes.   I work with some great lenders who will sit down with you and answer all of your questions.   There are no dumb questions.   Your home is going to be one of the biggest investments you make in your lifetime.   It™s important to know where you stand and to have all of your questions and fears addressed before writing a contract.

What are Lenders Looking For?

Lately, buyers have wanted to know what lenders are looking for.   Well, the Chief Economist for Freddie Mac summed up the answer very nicely. œIn today’s lending environment, it’s also important to remember the 4-C’s when looking for a mortgage: capacity, capital, collateral, credit,” he said. “In other words, have stable income, have assets or savings, be prepared to make a common-sense down payment, and have a good credit history.”As a buyer, you need to know your FICO score and to read the fine print in all documents concerning your mortgage.   Pre-Approval letters are not a guarantee of you getting a loan.   Talk to your lender before you start looking at homes.   I work with some great lenders who will sit down with you and answer all of your questions.   There are no dumb questions.   Your home is going to be one of the biggest investments you make in your lifetime.   It™s important to know where you stand and to have all of your questions and fears addressed before writing a contract.