You’ve searched and finally found a home to buy. But now, your lender throws you a curveball and requires that you pay for Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). So, what is PMI exactly? Private mortgage insurance (PMI) protects the lender financially if you stop making payments and default on your home loan. The insurance may be […]
Identity theft. Cybercrimes. Hacking. Phishing. We’ve all heard horror stories of how scammers use these tactics to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. But they don’t stop there. Real estate transactions are one of the most common areas that criminals target. Why? Because there are large sums of money involved, usually hundreds of thousands of dollars. […]
You watched the tutorials, learned the ins-and-outs, and you DIYed that kitchen reno, so why not DIY selling your house too? If you like to have your hand on the wheel in negotiations and are a quick study, For Sale by Owner (FSBO) may be for you. But curiosity and confidence are only half the […]
We’ve all heard the expression about accepting the things you cannot change. Luckily, your home appraisal is not one of them. It’s true that you can’t change your neighborhood and the value of other homes in your community, but there are things you can change – and do – to prepare your home for the […]
You’re ready to purchase your first home. Congratulations! However, after beginning your search you may find yourself wondering, ‘where in the world are all the starter homes?’ or ‘how can I even compete with so many offers?’ These are valid questions to ask considering recent trends in the housing market. There is a starter home […]
When you’re looking to buy a new home, it may feel like there’s a surprise around every corner. Literally. Maybe the house you’re viewing has an amazing master bath or your dream kitchen. Maybe there’s a playroom for the kids or a cozy back porch. House hunting can be fun. What’s not fun, however, is […]
This article will look at how your student loan debt affects your ability to get a home mortgage. It will explain how mortgage lenders look at your debt when evaluating you as a prospective borrower and explore other factors they consider. Finally, the article will discuss the types of loans you may qualify for. The […]
When applying for a mortgage loan, every borrower hopes to receive the best rate possible. However, many may not be certain what factors actually determine the rate they receive. Check out our list below of the top 5 things that could be driving your mortgage rates through the roof! 1) Credit Score This is a given […]
I know what you’re thinking, you just received your diploma and may not even have your first job lined up prior to graduation yet, so isn’t thinking about buying a home a bit premature? My answer to that question is a big resounding NO. Now is the best time to start investing into your future; […]