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	<title>Real Estate Corporate Housing Blog</title>
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	<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog</link>
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		<title>Energy Efficient House Design</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/energy-efficient-house-design/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/energy-efficient-house-design/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 31 Jul 2010 04:20:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Andy Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[House Designs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Techniques]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/energy-efficient-house-design/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Energy efficient house designs can be generated using thermal performance assessment techniques. Building thermal performance is the assessment or rating of a building&#8217;s ability to create internal conditions that are comfortable for the occupants, with a minimum of mechanical input. Mechanical input refers to the consumption of energy by heating or cooling appliances. Energy efficiency [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Energy efficient house designs can be generated using thermal performance assessment techniques. Building thermal performance is the assessment or rating of a building&#8217;s ability to create internal conditions that are comfortable for the occupants, with a minimum of mechanical input. Mechanical input refers to the consumption of energy by heating or cooling appliances. Energy efficiency refers to the effectiveness of a building&#8217;s ability to influence, control and facilitate user control over the movement of heat energy within a building and between the building and its surroundings. The most important attribute of a building in relation to its energy efficiency is the building envelope, which refers to the exterior fabric of the building. The movement of heat energy within a building has a less important affect. Residential thermal performance refers to the energy efficiency of a residential building.</p>
<p>An energy efficient house stays naturally cool in summer and warm in winter. The house will be even more comfortable if the occupants perform simple operations and management tasks. This allows the occupants to maintain comfortable conditions in their home, without the excessive use of heaters and air conditioners. Accordingly, this reduces the mechanical input required and reduces the energy consumption of the building. Reducing energy consumption means less burning of fossil fuels, less carbon emissions and less general pollution generated by the building. That is, high residential thermal performance gives the occupants the opportunity to have a healthier and more comfortable home that costs less to heat and cool and also reduces the impact of energy consumption on our environment.</p>
<p>The Star rating system in Australia rates the thermal performance of a building on a scale of 1 to 10. A 10 Star house would be one in which no energy is required to be consumed in order to maintain comfortable conditions for the occupants. Theoretically a 10 Star house is possible, however in practice a 9 Star house is typically the best rating that can be achieved. Such a high thermal performance house is commonly referred to as an energy efficient house. If the owners or designers of the home also include other environmentally aware features such as waste water treatment, environmentally friendly and low life cycle cost building materials, rain water gathering and treatment, solar and/or wind generation devices, etc, one might refer to it as a sustainable house.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Learning More About Fair Housing Act</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/learning-more-about-fair-housing-act/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/learning-more-about-fair-housing-act/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jun 2010 03:58:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Andy Johnson</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fair Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Renting Homes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/learning-more-about-fair-housing-act/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Fair Housing Act is a federal law that ensures equal opportunity in home ownership. The title of the law pretty much explains its contents. This law outlines prohibited practices in sale or rental of properties. However, it is centered on the prohibition of all forms of discrimination in the said transaction. Discrimination still exists in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Fair Housing Act is a federal law that ensures equal opportunity in home ownership. The title of the law pretty much explains its contents. This law outlines prohibited practices in sale or rental of properties. However, it is centered on the prohibition of all forms of discrimination in the said transaction. Discrimination still exists in the world. Such act may be influenced by their culture or perhaps by their history. Some people may have not gotten over the wars of the past. While others have developed pure disliking to a particular race that it progressed to racism. These things may not be that visible. However, there will still be accounts of it somewhere, especially in real estate.</p>
<p>With the existence of Fair Housing Act, people will have equal opportunities in purchasing or renting homes. If in case discriminatory acts were present at the time of dealing, the aggrieved parties can file a complaint. The alleged discriminating owner will have to undergo due process (or court hearing) before penalties or other legal actions will be imposed. </p>
<p>Racial and governmental discrimination was very evident in the 60s. Because of this, several incidences of riots and violence were triggered. As the situation worsened in 1968, President Johnson ordered the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders to figure out the root cause of such discrimination. According to the report, the cause was rage and ghettoization.</p>
<p>As a remedy to the problem, it was recommended to eliminate racial separation in housing. In March 11, 1968, the congress responded by making the act with amendments. However, the enactment of such law was not until after the death of Martin Luther King Jr. At this time, the country was shaken by another riot. As a result, President Johnson signed the act and it became the policy to promote fair housing in United States. In 1974, additional prohibitions were made as to discrimination to sex, disability and familial status.</p>
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		<item>
		<title>Benefits of House Property</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/benefits-of-house-property/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/benefits-of-house-property/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Apr 2010 07:35:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>David Stewards</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[House Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mortgage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate Market]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/benefits-of-house-property/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Nowadays, most of the people realize the value of the house property and tend to purchase the house property for a reasonable price consideration. Since house property always finds fluctuation, good price consideration is realized for the house property. More number of houses is listed in the house market to satisfy the needs and requirements [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Nowadays, most of the people realize the value of the house property and tend to purchase the house property for a reasonable price consideration. Since house property always finds fluctuation, good price consideration is realized for the house property. More number of houses is listed in the house market to satisfy the needs and requirements of the buyers. Though the demand for the house property is increasing in large number, there is an equal supply of houses. Price consideration is also said to be the main benefits for the purchase of the house property. Nowadays, real estate market finds good price consideration in the future.</p>
<p>House property is said to be the one of the important and essential asset which every one necessarily needed. Generally house property always finds more appreciation in the day-to-day changing market every body seeks to purchase a house property from the market. Today a house is purchased for a good prices, it can be sold for good price in future. With the help of the house property, the owner can obtain mortgage from lenders, bankers or brokers. Since house property is sold for a good price consideration, more number of buyers tends to buy the house property for a fair price. House property serves the buyer another benefit in the form of assets.</p>
<p>Leasing is also said to be the other benefits obtained from the purchase of house property. Lease purchase helps the buyer to buy and sell the house property for a reasonable price consideration. In leasing the house property purchased, the buyer can allow the house for renting by setting a predetermined amount in the form of contract. This helps to increase his income. Thus house property provides benefits to the buyer in the form leasing. Lease agreements vary from contract to contract and the buyer seeks good renting amount as house value increases.</p>
<p>Generally all house property listed in the market for sale always finds a reasonable price consideration. Periodically more number of houses are bought and sold for a reasonable price. Since the buyer finds more number of benefits from the property, he is purchasing the house property from the market. Without benefits no buyers will buy houses from the market. Nowadays real estate market finds a good demand, because of the benefits provided from the house property. Since fluctuation occurs frequently in the house market, more benefits will be provided in future.</p>
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		<title>Cash Flow in Stead of Homelessness</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cash-flow-in-stead-of-homelessness/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cash-flow-in-stead-of-homelessness/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:17:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ralph Serpe</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Homelessness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Council Tenant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homeowners]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Evaluation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cash-flow-in-stead-of-homelessness/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For non homeowners the UK tenant loans are bringing a new hope of wealth and prosperity. You, in spite of not having your own home can now borrow money and throw all your problems away with the help of the UK tenant loans. An amount ranging from £1,000 to £25,000 is being offered by the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For non homeowners the UK tenant loans are bringing a new hope of wealth and prosperity. You, in spite of not having your own home can now borrow money and throw all your problems away with the help of the UK tenant loans. An amount ranging from £1,000 to £25,000 is being offered by the UK tenant loans. This amount is sufficient for solving several financial problems like paying home installments, home improvements, car repairing, vacation tour, child’s education or for supporting medical expenses. After solving any of these troubles you can repay the loan within a period of 1 to 10 years.</p>
<p>Non homeowners with bad credit record can get good relief through the UK tenant loans. You will not be turned down as ineligible even if you are holding a bad credit record. In stead all your bad records will be accepted and the loan will be offered. Certain bad credit records that are accepted by the UK tenant loans are County Court Judgments, late payment, arrears, skipping of installments, defaults and bankruptcy.</p>
<p>UK tenant loans are best to be availed from the Internet. This is because, the rate of interest of these loans is generally high and to avoid such higher rates you can shop for the best loan by going online. All lenders keep advertising their quoted and this makes your task of having a comparison among all the deals easier. You will just be required to fill a free online form to borrow your desired amount.</p>
<p>UK tenant loans provide loan to all that are non homeowners, whether he is a tenant, a person staying in his parent’s home or a council tenant. You will not have to take tension of keeping any collateral and as a result the loans get approved faster as there is no need of property evaluation. </p>
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		<title>Fair Housing For Foreclosure</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-for-foreclosure/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-for-foreclosure/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Dec 2009 06:59:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>David Stewards</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fair Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Foreclosure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Real Estate]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-for-foreclosure/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Before a bank let&#8217;s your house go into a foreclosure there are laws that deal with fair housing practices. There was a law passed called the American civil rights act of 1866 and that allows people not to be discriminated with the property they own based on race. It is important that you understand how [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Before a bank let&#8217;s your house go into a foreclosure there are laws that deal with fair housing practices. There was a law passed called the American civil rights act of 1866 and that allows people not to be discriminated with the property they own based on race. It is important that you understand how this law works and how it can affect your home from going into foreclosure. Later the law was amended in 1988 to have a larger scope of the law so it included not only race but also religion and national origin. Also during that year the law included the handicap and also said he could not discriminate based on age or gender. This law was created to help people from being discriminated against.</p>
<p>What are the most important things you need to remember is when you&#8217;re involved in real estate is important that you leave behind any prejudice you may have. It does not matter whether you own a house where you are renting out a piece of property you need to abide by the fair housing practices. There are many ways you can also survey going into a foreclosure but you cannot use your national origin or a disability to keep this from happening. You need to work out the terms of payment with your bank so that you can avoid your home from going into a foreclosure.</p>
<p>Remember that it is important you abide by all fair housing practice laws. This means whether you own a house or you are renting out a piece of property you can not choose who you will rent to based on age, religion and/or disability. Also if you are facing a foreclosure on your bank will not give you favoritism depending also on your age, gender etc. You need to work out a payment on ship with your bank so that you can avoid losing your home in a foreclosure settlement. In most cases your bank will be more than willing to work out a notch and so you can stay in your home.</p>
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		<title>Creating The Perfect Outdoor Living Space On A Budget</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/creating-the-perfect-outdoor-living-space-on-a-budget/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/creating-the-perfect-outdoor-living-space-on-a-budget/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:43:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Live/Work Spaces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Budget]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Living Space]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/creating-the-perfect-outdoor-living-space-on-a-budget/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the latest trends in home decorating is heading outdoors-to the deck, patio, yard, terrace, rooftop garden, or other outdoor areas-to create a beautiful area where families and guests can escape to get away from the fast pace of life today. Every home needs a personal oasis to retreat to for a little rest, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the latest trends in home decorating is heading outdoors-to the deck, patio, yard, terrace, rooftop garden, or other outdoor areas-to create a beautiful area where families and guests can escape to get away from the fast pace of life today. Every home needs a personal oasis to retreat to for a little rest, relaxation, meditation, and rejuvenation-without having to take an expensive vacation or head to the spa.</p>
<p>As you set about creating your own personal outdoor space, you&#8217;ll want to include plants and flowers, fountains for serenity, garden statuary, polished stones and other earth elements, and possibly even water features like a waterfall or pond. But the primary purchase that will make your personal outdoor space tranquil, relaxing, and inviting is your choice of patio furniture. These days there is a great variety in patio furniture styles, designs, colors, patterns, and materials. Gone are the days of the simple lawn chair plopped on the grass out back.</p>
<p>Cushions, umbrellas, and coverings come in a wide range of colors, prints, and fabrics, and you can select from wood, hammered bronze, soft moss green, wrought iron, ivory, white, and black finishes, just to name a few. You can literally create a personalized space with a custom look-and it doesn&#8217;t have to cost as much as you think. Chances are you&#8217;ll want to look around in stores locally to get a feel for what you like in styles, colors, finishes, and specific patio furniture pieces, but don&#8217;t stop there. What you see locally is likely to be quite limited, particularly in areas where summer is a short season and stores quickly replace their small summer displays with snow blowers and shovels or Christmas decor.</p>
<p>After you get an idea of what you&#8217;d like and have an opportunity to sit in and test out a few of the chairs and lounges, look online to find an outstanding selection of patio furnishings. You&#8217;ll be amazed at all the options available and you can pick the perfect pieces or collection to create an outdoor space you&#8217;ll absolutely love! You can also find some great deals and save a lot of money by purchasing your patio furniture online-in addition to having such a great variety to choose from. So start planning your outdoor living space and creating your personal oasis today.</p>
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		<title>Cohousing Properties Available In Nanaimo</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cohousing-properties-available-in-nanaimo/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cohousing-properties-available-in-nanaimo/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:38:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International CoHousing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cohousing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Community]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nanaimo]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/cohousing-properties-available-in-nanaimo/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The city of Nanaimo,on the island of Vancouver,British Columbia,Canada is a charming community of 79,000 residents,with a thriving artist&#8217;s community and internationally renowned university-college. As the word is spreading about the resort style amenities of community living in Nanaimo, the popularity of cohousing properties is on the rise. Cohousing properties are the loose equivalent of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The city of Nanaimo,on the island of Vancouver,British Columbia,Canada is a charming community of 79,000 residents,with a thriving artist&#8217;s community and internationally renowned university-college. As the word is spreading about the resort style amenities of community living in Nanaimo, the popularity of cohousing properties is on the rise. Cohousing properties are the loose equivalent of detached condominiums in the United States. Each house in a cohousing community is owned by the individual property owner, but the land and amenities of the community are shared and co-owned by all property owners in the cohousing community organization. All maintenance of common areas is facilitated by monthly dues and decisions regarding common areas are made during regular meeting of the owners which are referred to as property &#8221;councils&#8221;.</p>
<p>While each house in a cohousing community contains all of the conveniences of any single family home, including garages, balconies, and full kitchens, the cohousing communities of Nanaimo are more socially oriented than what is typically expected of a detached condo association in the States, in fact the premise of cohousing is to foster the desire for residents to interact. Nanaimo cohousing communities routinely organize community events for the residents, and many cohousing properties include a common dining facility for community meals and special rooms in the event house designated for specific functions such as teen gatherings, children&#8217;s playrooms and community rooms for classes and lectures. Community meal planning also includes community preparation of the meals. While this practice is completely voluntary on the part of individual residents, most enjoy the prospect of spending time with their friends and neighbors in the community kitchen, helping to prepare the meal that all will share.</p>
<p>In addition to regularly planned community events, the general lifestyle of a cohousing community is that of an open door environment. Residents enjoy the socialization of visiting with their neighbors on a regular basis, to the extent that many communities form a subtle code system to indicate &#8221;do not disturb&#8221;, such as closing the blinds on the front door to convey that they would like privacy at a particular time. Residents who prefer a more solitary lifestyle report that this method works well, is well received and good natured, and alleviates any concerns about neighbors becoming invasive. Since the prospects of purchasing international real estate property can be more complicated than typically expected, enlisting of a local CoHousing Real Estate Agent to assist with the organization of paperwork and navigating of proper channels is crucial. A domestic real estate agent may or may not be versed in dealing with international residential properties, but will certainly be able to direct you to an appropriate professional to facilitate the purchase.</p>
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		<title>Fair Housing Laws And Ethics</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-laws-and-ethics/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-laws-and-ethics/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:34:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fair Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ethics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Law]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/fair-housing-laws-and-ethics/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When advertising your home for sale by owner, you will undoubtedly come into contact with a variety of people. All of these people, simply put, will not look just like you. You may come into contact with people of different ethnic groups or nationalities, people of different race, or even people with disabilities or handicaps. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When advertising your home for sale by owner, you will undoubtedly come into contact with a variety of people. All of these people, simply put, will not look just like you. You may come into contact with people of different ethnic groups or nationalities, people of different race, or even people with disabilities or handicaps. Situations can arise where discrimination against different types of people can be a violation of law, particularly regarding housing. Most types of housing are covered under these laws with the exception of those dwellings that operate under shelter laws, for example exclusively for battered women or for the hearing impaired.</p>
<p>Under the Fair Housing Laws, it is illegal to, based on someones color, creed, nationality, sexual orientation, handicap, etc; refuse to sell or to rent housing; refuse to negotiate for housing arrangements; make housing unavailable; deny a dwelling; sale, or inspection; persuade owners to sell or rent &#8211; this is known as blockbusting; or deny access to membership in a service and / or membership related to the sale or rental of housing. All of the above, if violated, will result in prosecution and criminal charges being brought against the violator. The same, or similar criteria exist for mortgage lending for the purchase of a home.There exist clauses in the laws that state it is illegal to threaten or coerce, to intimidate or interfere with anyone exercising a fair housing right.</p>
<p>Housing discrimination is not always characterized by the slamming of the door in someones face or a bigoted remark being hurled at a potential home buyer. However, it can be just as ugly and just as hurtful to the would-be buyer. Even without this as deterrence from the act, it is against the law. As a seller, it is important to treat each and every person interested in your home with dignity and respect. It helps to think of everyone as being a member of the human race instead of seeing them as being undesirable if they do not look like you. With the legislation that exists, it is best to conduct the sale of your home in a business-like manner and treat the transaction with all seriousness and gravity without allowing personal preferences to interfere, as this is counter-productive to the ultimate goal: the sale of your home.</p>
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		<title>Can You Afford To Buy Affordable Housing?</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/can-you-afford-to-buy-affordable-housing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/can-you-afford-to-buy-affordable-housing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2009 02:30:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable and Low Income Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Affordable Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Guide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Owner]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/can-you-afford-to-buy-affordable-housing/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many current home owners having issues purchased homes with little or no down payment and interest only mortgages. This means that the payments made pay only interest and do not reduce the principal amount of the loan. While these loans made it easier for many people to purchase homes, many buyers in this situation are [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many current home owners having issues purchased homes with little or no down payment and interest only mortgages. This means that the payments made pay only interest and do not reduce the principal amount of the loan. While these loans made it easier for many people to purchase homes, many buyers in this situation are upside down, owing more on their homes than the current value of the home. Other considerations include the length of time you can stay in your home. If you cannot commit to remaining in the home you purchase for at least three to four years, you will unlikely be able to recoup the transaction costs of buying and selling a home not to mention allowing enough time for the market to improve, allowing appreciation in the base price of your home.</p>
<p>Some individuals, particularly those in their fifties and sixties are choosing to sell a current home and downsize to a smaller home with a one level floor plan. Again, when making these plans consider how your long term income will support a mortgage after you retire. For those fortunate enough, monies made from the previous sale of a home may make the transition easier. Again, in this case, consider how long you will be able to stay in the home. Consider current and potential health issues to determine if a move to an independent living community may be a better choice than downsizing to a smaller home. There are many considerations that can be reviewed with a care navigator.</p>
<p>Home ownership also comes with added responsibilities. You will need to budget for regular upkeep and home repairs. When buying a home, it is a good idea to purchase a home buyer warranty or request that the seller purchase this for you. The benefit of this is peace of mind that anything missed in inspection is covered by the policy. Normally for a deductible of $50 the policy will cover repair of electric, plumbing and heating systems. This type of policy can be renewed after the first year for an additional year.</p>
<p>In spite of the fact that many people believe they can save money by doing it on their own, an experienced realtor can guide you through the home buying process and actually save you money through negotiation and by representing you to ensure that the process goes smoothly. You also receive advice on making sure that you are purchasing a house in good condition in a neighborhood tat will be likely to increase in value. There are also many other small details like clear title, absence of liens or easements, and that any issues that come up in home inspection can be properly addressed.</p>
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		<title>Knowing About Affordable Housing Schemes</title>
		<link>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/knowing-about-affordable-housing-schemes/</link>
		<comments>http://www.housingissue.com/blog/knowing-about-affordable-housing-schemes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Oct 2009 03:06:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Affordable and Low Income Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Affordable Housing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Ownership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Schemes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.housingissue.com/blog/knowing-about-affordable-housing-schemes/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Affordable housing schemes come in a wide variety of types and it does not just mean government funded housing. These homes are provided not just from government funds but also by developers and housing associations. The term affordable housing refers to not only the housing areas that deal with those that are making use of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Affordable housing schemes come in a wide variety of types and it does not just mean government funded housing. These homes are provided not just from government funds but also by developers and housing associations. The term affordable housing refers to not only the housing areas that deal with those that are making use of government funding but any area which has housing that is designed for individuals who make a particular level of income or who are looking for alternatives to home ownership.</p>
<p>Shared home ownership is one of the more affordable housing schemes that are part of the market today. This is where individuals purchase a portion of the house outright and then rent the rest of the house. There are usually plans that allow them to purchase additional shares of the home overtime. There are many people who also consider affordable homes as being housing that is of inferior quality. However, that is not always the case. You can find reasonable, affordable and quality homes as part of these housing schemes. The important thing is to know what to look for and to know what to ask for.</p>
<p>One of the biggest things to keep in mind when you are looking into affordable homes is that they are going to be shared equity or shared ownership plans. This is one of the ways that housing can be made more affordable. A minimum income usually is based on the lowest percentage of shared ownership allowed and then the monthly rent expense set at the highest amount. These income guidelines are the primary determining factor for communities and developers of affordable housing. While there are other schemes, these shared equity or shared ownerships are the most common outside of government subsidised affordable housing.</p>
<p>Affordable housing schemes do not have to be difficult. There are a few things that you should have in mind when looking into them. The first is that they do not have to be government housing or have to be for people who are on government assistance programmes. Second, you can find a number of housing developers and communities, which are income, restricted and can be defined as affordable housing. These communities and the developers, which build them, can be located anywhere and can range from flats to townhomes to standard suburban homes.</p>
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