Empower North Shore Oahu

Real Estate, Property Values and Homeowner Resources

$8,000 First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit

Who qualifies for the $8,000 first time homebuyers tax credit and the details of how first-time homebuyers can qualify for this unprecedented opportunity are the subjects of this article. The Tax Credit for...

Tags: Homeowner – First Time Homebuyer – Taxes – Thrifty – Mortgage – Staff Pick

FHA 203K Loan

The FHA 203K loan program is designed to help finance the rehabilitation and repair of  run-down properties. It has been utilized as a primary tool in revitalizing run down neighborhoods. What is the FHA ...

Tags: Homeowner – FHA Loan – Mortgage – 203K

How Landlords Can Use Credit Scoring to Make Rental Decisions

Many landlords don't realize that they can quickly and easily review the Credit History of prospective renters by ordering credit reports (and criminal background checks) online. When a property manager...

Tags: Homeowner – Financial – Renters

How To Save On Closing Costs

Many are shocked when they learn how much they owe to close on their mortgage. But there are ways to save before you sign on the dotted line. Closing costs seem to be a necessary evil when securing a new, or...

Tags: Homeowner – Staff Pick

Should You Consider Owner Financing?

Owner financing becomes more popular during a slow market, but be sure to do your research first to see if the arrangement is right for you. Owner financing isn’t for everyone, but can offer a number of ...

Tags: Homeowner – Staff Pick

FHA Loan Requirements Are Changing

FHA reform is changing the rules for securing an FHA-insured mortgage loan, but FHA loans still provide the best opportunity for those who don’t meet the requirements of a traditional home loan. By now...

Tags: Staff Pick – FHA Loan – Homeowner

How To Challenge Your Property Assessment

If your home value is dropping but your property taxes are not, you can appeal the assessed value of your home which may help lower your taxes. Property values are down, so why doesn’t your property tax ...

Tags: Homeowner – Staff Pick

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