Loncor Property Solutions

April 2025 Real Estate Insights – Your Quick Guide

We’ve packed this month’s archive with bite‑size advice you can use right now. From figuring out which credit score lands you a $300k mortgage to spotting the best local estate agent, each post is written to cut the fluff and give you clear steps. Scroll through to find the tip that matches what you’re looking for today.

Buying & Financing

Wondering what credit score you really need for a $300,000 home? A score of 680 + usually gets you a decent rate, but you can still qualify with a 650 score if you’re ready to accept a slightly higher interest. We break down the math, show real‑life examples, and suggest ways to boost your score before you apply.

If you’re on the fence about a 20% down payment, the “How Much Do Most First‑Time Home Buyers Put Down?” post reveals the national average (around 7‑9%) and highlights programs that let you put down as little as 3%. The NC Recovery Grant article is a must‑read for North Carolinians—this grant can cover a chunk of your down payment and closing costs, making homeownership feel less scary.

Got a 650 credit score and wondering how big a loan you can get? Expect to qualify for a loan up to 80% of the property value, but be prepared for a higher rate and possibly a larger down payment. We compare fixed‑rate, FHA, and adjustable‑rate options so you can see which one fits your budget.

Choosing the Right Property Service

Picking an estate agent can feel like a gamble, but our “Which Property Agency Is the Best?” guide gives you a checklist: sales record, local market knowledge, communication style, and fee transparency. Use the same list when you’re selling—our “Who is Best to Sell Your House With?” post adds tips on negotiating commission and leveraging an agent’s network.

Before you sign any listing agreement, read our “How to Value a Property: A Practical Guide.” We walk you through using comparables, checking local development plans, and spotting hidden value drivers. Knowing a property’s true worth helps you set a realistic price whether you’re buying or selling.

Shared ownership shows up a lot this month. The “Is Buying Shares in a Shared Ownership Home a Good Investment?” post weighs the pros—lower entry cost and potential equity growth—against the cons covered in “Disadvantages of Stock Ownership in Shared Homes.” Both pieces explain how buying shares differs from full ownership, what rights you get, and the resale hurdles you might face.

If you’re curious about alternative living arrangements, we’ve got two quick reads. “What is a Luxury Service Apartment?” explains why professionals choose fully‑furnished, concierge‑driven rentals over traditional leases. Meanwhile, “Does Anyone Do Timeshares Anymore?” updates you on the modern timeshare market, pointing out newer models like points‑based vacation clubs.

All these articles share a common goal: give you practical steps so you can move forward with confidence. Bookmark the pieces that match your current need, and come back whenever you hit a new hurdle in your property journey. Got a question that wasn’t covered? Drop us a comment—our team loves turning real‑life scenarios into the next helpful guide.

30 Apr

Credit Score for $300k House: What You Really Need

First Time Buyer

Credit Score for $300k House: What You Really Need

Curious what credit score you need to buy a $300,000 house? This article breaks down the numbers and shows how your score impacts your mortgage. You'll get real examples, insider tips, and avoid common mistakes first-time buyers make. Find out how much you really need—and what to do if your score isn't quite there. It's a straight-shooting guide to getting a mortgage that actually fits your life.

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27 Apr

How Much Does a Chick-fil-A Owner Make? The Real Numbers and Factors Explained

Shared Ownership

How Much Does a Chick-fil-A Owner Make? The Real Numbers and Factors Explained

This article breaks down how much a Chick-fil-A owner can realistically make, with no fluff or sugarcoating. It covers the unique franchise setup, compares it to other fast-food chains, and talks about what really impacts owner pay. You'll find real numbers, hard truths, and clear advice if you're thinking about this business. Plus, there are tips for anyone curious about shared ownership models. You’ll walk away knowing whether this is a dream worth chasing.

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26 Apr

Which Property Agency Is the Best? Find the Right Estate Agents Near Me

Estate Agents

Which Property Agency Is the Best? Find the Right Estate Agents Near Me

Trying to figure out which property agency deserves your trust can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down how to really compare estate agents near you, from their sales records to the little things most people miss. Want insider tips on spotting solid agents, avoiding pushy sales talk, and actually finding the best crew for your next move? This article untangles the whole process. You’ll get practical facts that help you skip the hype and make a choice that actually works.

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24 Apr

Is Buying Shares in a Shared Ownership Home a Good Investment?

Shared Ownership

Is Buying Shares in a Shared Ownership Home a Good Investment?

This article digs into whether buying shares in a shared ownership home is actually a smart investment. It breaks down how the system works, the financial pros and cons, and what to be careful about. Discover common pitfalls and compare shared ownership to other ways of getting your foot on the property ladder. If you're thinking about buying a share in a home, you'll get honest, straightforward info to help you decide.

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20 Apr

Does Owning Shares Make You an Owner? The Truth About Shared Ownership Homes

Shared Ownership

Does Owning Shares Make You an Owner? The Truth About Shared Ownership Homes

This article breaks down what it really means to own shares in a shared ownership home. You'll learn if having shares makes you a true owner, what rights and limitations come with it, and how this setup compares to outright buying a property. Real-life examples and handy tips show what to expect when dealing with shared ownership. If you're thinking about getting into the property market, this guide will help you decide if the shared route fits your goals. Find out about the pitfalls and the perks before you sign anything.

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19 Apr

How Much Do Most First Time Home Buyers Put Down? Real Numbers & Smart Tips

First Time Buyer

How Much Do Most First Time Home Buyers Put Down? Real Numbers & Smart Tips

First-time home buyers often wonder how much money they should put down when buying a house. This article breaks down the real numbers, looks at national averages, and explains why you might not need the traditional 20%. We’ll cover popular programs, what affects your down payment, and give simple tips to help you save more. Whether you’re close to buying or just checking your options, you’ll get practical advice—not just theory. No jargon, just clear info to ease your first big purchase.

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16 Apr

Understanding the NC Recovery Grant for First-Time Homebuyers

First Time Buyer

Understanding the NC Recovery Grant for First-Time Homebuyers

The NC Recovery Grant is a lifesaver for first-time homebuyers in North Carolina, providing vital financial assistance to those taking their first steps in the housing market. It's designed to make homeownership more accessible by offering grants that can help with down payments and closing costs, making these hefty expenses less daunting. Understanding how to qualify and apply for this grant can be a game changer. Navigating eligibility and the application process doesn't have to be confusing. This article breaks down all you need to know to make this opportunity work for you.

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13 Apr

What is a Luxury Service Apartment?

Luxury Apartments

What is a Luxury Service Apartment?

Luxury service apartments are more than just places to crash. They blend the comfort of homes with the exclusivity of upscale hotels. Offering swanky amenities like concierge services, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and sometimes even Spotify pre-loaded sound systems, these apartments are the go-to for those who won’t settle for less. Let's check out why they're becoming the talk of the town, especially for business professionals and travelers.

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12 Apr

Does Anyone Do Timeshares Anymore?

Shared Ownership

Does Anyone Do Timeshares Anymore?

Timeshares often bring to mind images of outdated vacation spots, but are they still a thing today? This article dives into the modern state of timeshares, exploring whether they still hold value and what alternatives have emerged. From understanding what timeshares actually entail to considering if they're a solid investment, we’ll break down the nitty-gritty of shared ownership. Whether you're thinking about a timeshare or just curious, you'll find all sorts of practical tips and insights. Get ready to discover if everyone's favorite vacation home setup is still worth it.

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9 Apr

How Big of a Loan Can I Get with a 650 Credit Score?

First Time Buyer

How Big of a Loan Can I Get with a 650 Credit Score?

A 650 credit score opens the door to a world of home buying possibilities, albeit with some limitations. This score, just below the good range, means you can still qualify for various loan options, although you might not snag the lowest interest rates. By understanding how lenders view your score, you can strategically plan your home purchase. Explore different loan types, down payment options, and practical tips to enhance your eligibility. Discover how your score affects your buying power and learn steps to improve it before applying.

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6 Apr

Disadvantages of Stock Ownership in Shared Homes

Shared Ownership

Disadvantages of Stock Ownership in Shared Homes

Owning stock in shared ownership homes might sound appealing, but it's not all rosy. From limited control over property decisions to challenges with resale, there are several downsides to consider. Stockholders might face unexpected costs and complex regulations, making it a less straightforward investment. Understanding these aspects is crucial before jumping into the world of shared ownership. This article explores the hurdles and provides practical tips to navigate them.

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5 Apr

Who is Best to Sell Your House With? Choosing the Right Estate Agent

Estate Agents

Who is Best to Sell Your House With? Choosing the Right Estate Agent

Choosing the right estate agent can make a big difference when selling your house. Whether you're looking to get the best price or sell quickly, the right agent will guide you through the process. Consider factors like local market knowledge, communication style, and fees. Learn tips and insights to make an informed choice.

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