Articles written by Michael Cook

The future of real estate appraisals is here. Sites like Zillow and Trulia provide unprecedented access to real estate comparables and values, but how accurate are they?

Apr 16, 2007 - Michael Cook

Having a sound budget can prepare you for life after you have purchased your home. Avoid being surprised by unexpected expenses and big tickect replacement items.

Apr 12, 2007 - Michael Cook

With the Real Estate market off of its peak, homeowners are seeing their 3 and 5 year adjustable rate mortgages reset to higher rates. Avoid default with good planning

Apr 11, 2007 - Michael Cook

Mortgage brokers can help you get the best interest rates and connect you with just about any type of loan you are looking for.

Apr 11, 2007 - Michael Cook

Credit score management has become more important than ever. Understanding your credit drivers can help you keep your score high.

Apr 9, 2007 - Michael Cook

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) adds a heavy burden to borrower's mortgage payments. Many borrowers look to avoid it with a second loan, but is prepayment better?

Apr 7, 2007 - Michael Cook

Loans and Mortgages are a great financial tool. Refinancing regularly can help you maximize the value of your real estate by freeing up cash flow for new investments.

Apr 3, 2007 - Michael Cook

Student loans have become big business with the staggering increase in college tuition. Find out how to manage the process before you dig into the hole of student debt

Mar 29, 2007 - Michael Cook

Understanding the pros and cons of a reverse amortization mortgage can help you decide whether this investment is right for you. This article compares your options.

Mar 29, 2007 - Michael Cook

Credit cards and auto loans trick consumers into thinking they get a great rate by using the Annual Percentage Rate (APR). Beat the system by paying twice as fast.

Mar 26, 2007 - Michael Cook

Unlock the potential of your house by treating it like an investment. Although Real Estate requires constant attention, it can be just as rewarding as stocks or bonds.

Mar 25, 2007 - Michael Cook

In less than two months, the Bears have gone from a great story to a franchise on the brink of ruin. Ron Rivera, Lovie Smith, Lance Briggs and Tank Johnson are the story.

Mar 25, 2007 - Michael Cook

The real estate market has slowed significantly over the past year. Sub-prime mortgage defaults have been an early casuality of the bursting of the real estate bubble.

Mar 22, 2007 - Michael Cook

Property taxes are based on your city's assessment of your property value. Understanding how your home is valued and the appeal process can keep money in your pocket.

Mar 22, 2007 - Michael Cook

In hot real estate markets properties sell quickly. However, every market has its ups and downs. Avoid being stuck holding your property by being proactive.

Mar 16, 2007 - Michael Cook

Realtor commisions represent a large cost of a real estate transaction. Understanding what a good agent does and how to select one can save you thousands of dollars.

Mar 15, 2007 - Michael Cook

Real estate appraisals can make or break the sale of your house. Knowing how to maximize the value of your appraisal can increase the value you get for your house.

Mar 14, 2007 - Michael Cook

Whether you are interested in selling real estate or not, having a real estate license can save you thousands of dollars when you buy and sell your own property.

Mar 9, 2007 - Michael Cook

Great new real estate may just be one house away. Rehabbing can be a great way to get into a good neighborhood cheaper and add value to your most important investment.

Mar 6, 2007 - Michael Cook

Avoid buying the wrong house by taking a step by step approach to the purchase. Understanding how to value upgrades will keep you focused during the purchasing process.

Feb 28, 2007 - Michael Cook

Buying a new home starts with an internal assessment. Understanding personal needs, financial ability and location requirements can set the buyer off on the right path.

Feb 27, 2007 - Michael Cook