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Risks of Remodeling Without a Permit
Most cities require that homeowners obtain a building permit before making modifications to their residence. Which modifications require a permit vary by city. Also, some cities are more vigilant than others in enforcing permit laws.
In order for the homeowner to receive a permit, the homeowner or his/her designee are required to file plans and pay fees to the city. In addition, the improvements are given a value. If they increase the value of the property, this may result in an increase in property taxes. Inspections are often required, and this means having to schedule and then wait for inspectors to approve the work to be done. This process can be time consuming and inconvenient in the short run. It is for this reason that some homeowners skip the permit process.
If a permit is needed and you fail to get one, the city may discover this at some time in the future and getting a permit retroactively can frequently be significantly more expensive and much more problematic than having obtained the permit before work commenced. If work is not done in accordance with city procedures or if the inspector is unable to determine if the work has been done properly, the homeowner could be required to open walls, tear up floors, so that the inspection may take place. In addition, by law, work not permitted where a permit was required must be disclosed to any prospective purchaser. This may cause the owner to discount their sale price or perform costly or time-consuming repairs before title can be transferred.
For prospective buyers of a property, save yourself the future hassle and loss of money by researching whether all work on the premises has been done according to code and with the proper permits. You may obtain these permits by going directly to Building & Safety in the municipality in which the property is located or by hiring a "permit puller" who will research the permits for you.  Ask us ANY question about selling your home or property. Or request our FREE in-home presentation of how we would market your property in Wilmington, Greenville and New Castle County! There's no obligation, and we promise to get back to you quickly... 
Investment Real Estate >The Right Time to Buy Are you waiting for "just the right time" to get into the real estate market? The signs indicate that there is no time like the present. Interest rates are still comparatively low and buyers are shopping for new and second homes in great numbers.
Vacation homes are very popular for investment purposes and personal enjoyment. You can use your vacation home as a getaway property now, and by the time you retire you will have paid a significant amount on the loan. If you live in a vacation home for 14 days a year or less, you can take depreciation on it.
Another important benefit is that tax deductions in the form of interest and property taxes help to offset the cost of paying for a second home. If the debt does not exceed $1 million, mortgage interest payments on principal residences and second or vacation homes are fully deductible for tax purposes.
Don't waste valuable time while interest rates creep upwards -- all you need is the right real estate agent to guide you!
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| Q |
Where is the world's largest mud building?
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| A |
The Grand Mosque in west Africa measures 328 feet long and 131 feet wide, and has been carefully maintained for centuries by local craftsmen, especially during the rainy season. |
 See More Real Estate Trivia > |
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