Marc Rasschaert, Realtor

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Marc Rasschaert, Realtor

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As an agent, I am obligated to do what is in the best interest of my clients.

From deciding on a listing price for your home to the final signature on closing day, I will be there to guide you and make sure that you have peace of mind about your decision.

10/27/2026

🌟 Buying your first home can be both exciting and overwhelming. A key part of the process is understanding your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. This number helps lenders see if you can manage monthly payments to repay the money you borrow. 🚪 What is the DTI? It's a simple percentage that shows how much of your income is spent on debt payments. To find this, add up your monthly debts and divide by your gross monthly income. If your DTI is too high, lenders may think you can’t handle a mortgage payment.

Imagine your gross income is $5,000 a month. If you have $2,000 in credit card, student loan, and other monthly debts, your DTI is 40%. Most, though not all, lenders prefer DTIs of 43% or less. 🌼 Keep your DTI low by paying down debt or increasing your income. This improves chances of mortgage approval.

🌈 Consider your budget. If your ratio is a little high, look at ways to improve before applying for a home loan. 🚀

📢 Want more tips on buying your first home? Drop your questions in the comments or send a direct message. Let's make your dream of homeownership a reality!

10/26/2026

🏠 Buying a home is a huge step, and the more you know about mortgage options, the better! Let's break down the three most common types of mortgage loans so you can make an informed choice. They require a lower down payment than conventional loans, sometimes as low as 3.5%. Plus, the credit requirements are more flexible, which can be helpful if you're working on building your credit. This can be a game-changer for those serving or who have served in the military. They generally have stricter credit requirements and may need a higher down payment, usually around 5% to 20%. However, if you have a solid credit score, these loans can offer competitive interest rates. 🎉

Choosing the right loan depends on your personal financial situation. Learn as much as you can and consult with a qualified lender to explore your options fully. Making the right choice can save you money and stress in the long run!

Have questions about which mortgage loan might be best for you? 🤔 Comment below or send a message to keep the conversation going. I'm here to help every step of the way!

10/20/2026

🏠 Buying or selling a home is an exciting journey, but before you get the keys or hand them over, there's an essential step you can't ignore: the real estate closing process. Both parties, buyers and sellers, will go through a series of steps that ensure all terms of the sale agreement are met. This includes inspections, final negotiations, securing financing, and gathering the necessary documents. 📅

Prior to closing day, home buyers need to have the home inspected to ensure everything is as expected. This is critical to make sure all the finances are ready for the final transfer. 🎉

As a realtor, my role is to guide you through this intricate process, ensuring each step is smooth and every question answered. Understanding the closing process is crucial; it eliminates surprises and makes the transition to your new home stress-free.

Have questions about the closing process? Drop them in the comments, and let's make sure you're fully prepared for your home-buying or selling journey!

10/19/2026

VA loans are special because they offer benefits you won't find with other types of financing, especially for first-time home buyers. One major advantage of a VA loan is that you can buy a home without a down payment. Most traditional loans require at least some down payment, but VA loans allow you to finance 100% of the home's value. This is a significant relief for first-time buyers who might not have substantial savings yet. However, with a VA loan, you skip this additional expense, thus reducing your monthly payment. Additionally, VA loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to conventional loans. This not only makes your monthly payments more affordable but also helps you save money over the life of the loan. If you qualify for a VA loan as a first-time home buyer, it’s a golden opportunity to step into homeownership with more ease and less financial strain.

Are you or someone you know eligible for a VA loan? Tag a friend who might find this information useful or message me to discuss your options. Your future home awaits!

10/13/2026

The final walkthrough gives you the chance to inspect the property once more. Ensure all fixtures and appliances that are supposed to stay are in working order. It's not the time for negotiating but verifying that everything is as promised. You’re looking for any unwanted surprises before you sign the final papers. Test faucets, flush toilets, and ensure heating and cooling systems are operational. Open doors and windows to make sure they work properly, and don’t forget to check the garage door and any outdoor features like sprinklers! This walkthrough not only ensures you’re getting what you agreed upon but also provides peace of mind in your new investment. Your agent is there to protect your interests and make this process as smooth as possible. Get excited, you're one step closer to receiving the keys to your new home! This final step is your opportunity to ensure everything is perfect before the transition to homeownership is complete.

Have you gone through a final walkthrough before? What were your experiences? Share your stories or ask any questions you might have!

10/12/2026

Carefully review the document and highlight any significant problems, like roofing issues or faulty electrical systems. The aim is to focus on core issues affecting the property's safety or longevity, rather than mere cosmetic fixes. They can provide invaluable insights on what repairs are reasonable to request based on the local market conditions. Negotiation can involve asking the sellers to handle repairs before closing or obtaining a credit so you can address them yourself after the purchase. Remember, the goal isn't to overwhelm the seller with demands but rather to reach an agreement that benefits both parties. ✍️ In conclusion, the key to negotiating repairs after a home inspection is being informed, focused, and reasonable. Collaborate with professional Realtors who can guide you through this intricate process and ensure your home-buying journey is seamless.

Are you gearing up for a home inspection? Have you successfully negotiated repairs in the past, or are you facing challenges? Let’s share experiences and tips. Comment below with your thoughts or questions!

10/06/2026

FHA loans are backed by the government and are popular due to their lower down payment requirements and flexible credit score standards. You only need a credit score of around 580 to qualify, and the down payment can be as low as 3.5% of the home price. On the other hand, conventional loans are not government-backed and typically require a higher credit score, around 620, and a down payment of 5% to 20%. The advantage here is that once you pay 20% down, there’s no insurance, potentially lowering your monthly payments. FHA loans might be more accessible for first-time buyers with lower credit scores, whereas conventional loans could be a better option for those with a stronger financial profile and a bigger down payment. 🙌

The best choice depends on your individual financial situation, how long you plan to stay in the home, and the condition of your credit.

Thinking about buying your first home? Have questions about which loan might be right for you? I’m here to help! Drop your questions below or send me a message for personalized advice. Let's get you into your dream home!

10/05/2026

🌟 Understanding mortgage points might seem daunting, but once you get the hang of it, you'll have a valuable tool in optimizing your home loan. Mortgage points are fees you pay your lender at closing to reduce your interest rate, giving you a potential for long-term savings. If you plan to stay in your home for a significant period, paying for points can lead to substantial savings on interest. However, if you foresee selling or refinancing soon, the upfront cost might not pay off. It's crucial to calculate your break-even point, which is the time it will take for the savings from reduced interest to cover the initial cost of the points. 💡 Consider this process as an important step in your negotiation and financial planning. 📌 As a real estate professional, my goal is to guide you through these decisions with personalized advice to fit your budget and your future goals.

Have questions about mortgage points? Feel free to reach out! I'd love to hear your thoughts and help you with your home journey. Share your experiences or any questions below!

10/01/2026

• 🏡 Address: 3473 Palomino Dr, Gibsonia, PA 15044
• 💲 Price: $1,350,000
• 🛏️ Bedrooms: 4
• 🛁 Bathrooms: 4 full, 1 half
• 📐 Total Area: 4,504 sqft
• 🌳 Lot Size: almost 4.5 acres
• 🚗 Parking: Attached Garage with Opener
• 🔥 Fireplaces: 4 Gas Fireplaces
• 🌬️ Cooling: Central Air
• 🏊‍♂️ Outdoor Amenities: Pool, Spa, Sauna

Welcome to your own private retreat in Trotting Acres, where luxury and comfort come together in perfect harmony. From the moment you arrive, the impressive governor's driveway creates a grand first impression and sets the tone for what awaits inside. Step through the door to discover spacious rooms filled with natural light and beautiful hardwood floors that flow throughout the home. The owner's suite serves as a true sanctuary, featuring a sprawling dressing room and a peaceful atmosphere designed for unwinding at the end of the day. Combining beautiful finishes, expansive living spaces, and exceptional outdoor amenities, this remarkable property offers the lifestyle you've been dreaming of. With a finished basement and walk-out access, this home is perfect for those who love to entertain or simply enjoy the finer things in life. This home truly has it all, from its contemporary two-story design to its luxurious features, making it a must-see for anyone looking for their dream home in Gibsonia.

What do you think of this stunning property? Let us know in the comments!

3473 Palomino Dr,
Gibsonia, PA 15044

Listed By:
Marc Rasschaert
412334120
COLDWELL BANKER REALTY
412-963-7655
Source: West Penn Multi-List
MLS #: 1758492

09/30/2026

Fortunately, for first-time buyers, several programs are available to help ease these expenses and make the dream of homeownership achievable. First-time homebuyer programs can assist with down payment and closing costs, offering grants, low-interest loans, and even forgiving loans to those eligible. By reducing the upfront financial burden, you can concentrate on finding a home that fits your needs without stressing over funds. Federal programs like FHA loans are popular nationwide, providing relaxed credit score requirements and lower down payments. Local and regional programs are just as effective, often providing tailored assistance that meets the specific needs of residents.

📝 Are you considering buying your first home? It's crucial to understand the benefits of first-time homebuyer programs. They can significantly lighten the financial load. Share your thoughts or questions about these programs! I'm here to help guide you on this exciting journey.

Let's connect and explore the best options for you today!

Address

17 Brilliant Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA
15237

Website

http://marc.cbintouch.com/

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