Tag: buying a home

How High Will Interest Rates Go This Year?

Mortgage interest rates have been slowly increasing since they plummeted following the 2008 financial crisis. Twice this year already, the Federal Reserve has raised interest rates, which, in turn, raises the rate at which banks loan out money for mortgages. But are they done raising rates this year, or could more hikes be on the… Read more »

15 vs. 30-Year Loan: Which is right for me?

What’s the deal with 15 and 30-year mortgage loan rates? If you’ve ever shopped around for a new mortgage, you’ve seen lenders advertising rates for both. There are pros and cons to both, depending on what you want to do with the mortgage. But there’s also the unknown fact that “15 to 30” aren’t the… Read more »

Buy A House with a Small Down Payment

If you are a first-time homebuyer, getting a mortgage may seem overwhelming — especially with all the different options available. Maybe you don’t have a lot of money for a down payment or your credit isn’t great. The good news is, you can still qualify for a home loan. Here are 4 low or no… Read more »

Mortgage Bankers vs. Mortgage Lenders vs. Mortgage Brokers

Bankers and Lenders and Brokers, Oh My! Mortgage Bankers When many prospective homebuyers think about getting pre-approved for a mortgage, they picture their local bank. They stop by the nearest branch, are greeted by a friendly teller, and ask to speak to a loan officer. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this concept, but it certainly… Read more »

Buy a Home with No Closing Costs

Buy a Home with No Closing Costs An alarming number of first time homebuyers are unaware that mortgages involve closing costs, and which often creates a financial obstacle. Here, we’ll explain not only what closing costs are, but more importantly, how to avoid paying them! What are Closing Costs? Closing costs are additional fees a… Read more »

VA Loans Just Got Better

  For eligible servicemembers, veterans, and surviving spouses, the existing VA home loan program just got better! The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has introduced a new policy regarding how student loan debt affects mortgage eligibility. Related: VA Loans for Military Veterans VA loosens Guidelines for Student Loans The new policy makes it easier for… Read more »

Use Your Tax Refund as a Down Payment on a Home

Use Your Tax Refund as a Down Payment on a Home One of the biggest roadblocks to homeownership for prospective first time homebuyers is the down payment. Given the cost of rent, utilities, student loan debt, and many other expenses, it is hard to save up thousands of dollars for a down payment. Some first… Read more »

Housing Inventory Reaches 18-Year Low

Housing Inventory Reaches 18-Year Low The number of active listings dropped again last month to the lowest level since 1999, according to the National Association of Realtors.  Only 1.65 million homes are available for sale, which equates to roughly 3.6 months of inventory nationwide.  This figure is downward from the 3.9 months of inventory reported in December… Read more »