Buyer Guides

Guides and resources for home buyers in Orange County and the surrounding areas, from first-time buyer basics to financing, offers, and closing. Written by Michael Mellgren, REALTOR®.

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Buyer Guides What is a Mills Act Contract, and Which Orange County Homes Qualify? Quick Answer A Mills Act contract is a voluntary 10-year deal between a California city or county and the owner of a historic home. The owner promises to preserve the property. In return, the property-tax bill drops. In Orange County, eleven jurisdictions offer it, and a home must be a designated historic property to qualify. […]
Buyer Guides Escrow, Title, and Closing Costs in Orange County: What Buyers and Sellers Pay Quick Answer Closing costs in Orange County fall into three groups: charges the county fixes, charges the companies you hire quote you, and prorated items you owe for the days you held the property. Orange County’s transfer tax runs $0.55 per $500 of price. Escrow and title fees vary by company, so compare them. Escrow, […]
Buyer Guides How to Get Ready to Buy a Home: A Step-by-Step Guide for Orange County Buyers Quick Answer Learning how to get ready to buy a home comes down to eight steps: check your credit, set a realistic budget, save for the down payment and closing costs, get pre-approved for a mortgage, gather your paperwork, understand the full cost of ownership, choose an agent, and start your search. Preparation turns a […]
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Michael Mellgren Realtor
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Michael mellgren, realtor dre# 02321556 | phone (714) 420-6629 | michaelmellgren@gmail.com

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