Young woman writing notes in a notebook, surrounded by home comfort.
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Ultimate Guide to the House Closing Process

If the home-buying process is a marathon, then closing is the marathon’s final mile — but with hurdles between you and the finish. The good news? The finish line is indeed within sight. And armed with a bit of knowledge, you’ll easily leap those final hurdles on the way to being a homeowner. How long…

AmeriSave Mortgage 5/1 ARM Loan
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5/1 ARM vs. 5/6 ARM: Key Differences

With home prices and interest rates remaining high, more home buyers are looking for ways to lower their monthly mortgage payments. That’s where adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) come in.   A 5/1 ARM and a 5/6 ARM both start with a fixed interest rate for the first five years, followed by periodic adjustments. But what happens after…

Happy family celebrating making a down payment on their new home
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Using Gift Money for a Down Payment on a Home

For many aspiring homeowners, especially those eager to become first-time buyers, the dream of owning a home can feel just out of reach. Until a generous gift changes everything, that is. Whether a family member wants to help you build your future or you’re considering asking for support, gift money for a down payment can…

Homeowner calculating home equity loan with papers and calculator
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Borrowing Home Equity: What’s Ideal for You?

Rising home values in 2022 and into 2023 have contributed to overall market volatility and made it more challenging to be a buyer. However, this real estate market has proven to be a boon to many homeowners who are content to stay put. That’s because higher home values mean they have more equity than ever….

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage concept

What is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) Loan?

An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) — sometimes referred to as a “variable rate mortgage” —offers the opportunity to save money through a low introductory interest rate. But it also has the possibility of a higher monthly mortgage payment once that introductory rate ends. If you’re the right kind of home buyer and you understand how to…

Family celebrating moving into their new home.
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9 Tips for Buying a House With High Interest Rates

Buying a home in a high-interest-rate environment requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. Despite these challenges, there are effective strategies to navigate this market and achieve your homeownership goals. Whether you’re considering adjustable-rate mortgages, shorter-term fixed-rate loans, or exploring other financial options, understanding how to manage in this environment can make all the difference. Anyone…

Happy family entering their new home after a successful mortgage buydown
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What is a Mortgage Rate Buydown and How Does It Work?

For some prospective homebuyers, rising interest rates might make it feel like the dream of homeownership is slipping away. The good news is that even in a high-rate environment, you have multiple strategies to help you lower your interest rate or the total cost of your loan. One such strategy is the mortgage buydown. Mortgage…

Family smiling in front of their new house, made possible by a mortgage using home buying guide.
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A Buyer’s Guide to the Home Inspection Process

You’ve come a long way on your homebuying journey. Now, you’ve finally found a home that’s just right, have signed a purchase contract, and are waiting for the sale to close. But how do you know that the home you’re buying is in good condition? This can cause some stress even if you’re pretty handy,…