3 Ways to Reduce Your Closing Costs
Jul 31, 2024Closing costs are extra and typically run 2-5% of the final sales price of a home. Some of these costs are nonnegotiable — but did you know that others can be reduced or eliminated entirely?…
Category:
Tips & Tricks
4 Common Problems in Older Homes
May 24, 2024Older homes come with built-in history, a unique character and nostalgic charm. But over many years, they may also harbor hidden problems that can cost a pretty penny once they finally surface. Knowing how to…
4 Reasons Refi Applications Get Denied
Apr 09, 2024Refinancing allows borrowers to reduce their monthly mortgage rates and payments, shorten loan terms and convert home equity to cash. But refinancing can be complicated — even responsible borrowers with relatively high credit scores and…
What does PITI mean for your payments?
Apr 03, 2024Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can come with its fair share of jargon. One term you may encounter is PITI. It might sound like alphabet soup, but PITI — principal,…
5 Must-Have Home Upgrades for Seniors
Mar 29, 2024Many retirees dream of trading the responsibilities of homeownership for the carefree lifestyle of assisted living. Others would rather grow old at home near friends and family, where they can enjoy the fruits of their…
Are you prepared for spring cleaning?
Feb 26, 2024Spring cleaning is more than an annual tradition. It’s the necessary response to a long winter of tightly sealed homes and trapped indoor allergens. Wiping the slate clean of accumulated dust and dander provides a…
Your Guide to Down Payment Assistance
Jan 22, 2024As you may know, saving for a competitive down payment was one of the primary obstacles homebuyers faced in 2023. With high prices and rising mortgage rates, many buyers have turned to down payment assistance…
Should You Lock In Your Mortgage Rate?
Jan 11, 2024Finding the lowest available mortgage rate can significantly reduce the lifetime costs of your loan. In fact, reducing your rate by even a few percentage points could save you thousands of dollars long-term. But with…
Should You Buy or Sell a Home in Winter?
Dec 26, 2023Traditionally, wintertime is a downtime for the real estate market. The weather is colder, wetter and often messy, which can be a little off-putting for potential homebuyers and sellers. But despite these seasonal challenges, winter…
Conforming Versus Nonconforming Loans
Dec 15, 2023When applying for a mortgage, it’s important to understand the difference between conforming and nonconforming loans. Conforming loans offer more protections and could save you money long-term. Nonconforming loans are more accessible, offer larger loan…