Ever wonder which things can affect your credit score the most when you're applying for a mortgage loan? Here are some of the top factors that can dramatically lower anyone's score:
You're 30 days late (or more) paying a bill. You could see a... (Read More)
The busiest home buying seasons are spring and summer. Summer is an ideal for many people and families to make a move and settle in before fall, the start of school and the holidays. But there can be some advantages to shopping for a home in the... (Read More)
Congratulations! You are using your VA loan benefit to buy a home.
Once you are under contract on a home, the lender will tell you that there needs to be a VA appraisal ordered. People usually have many questions about appraisals. The following... (Read More)
Think you need a huge down payment in order to buy a home? Then you're in for some good news.
The "need" for big down payments is a myth in today's lending environment. Truth is, programs offered by three federal agencies are helping borrowers... (Read More)
Ever hear the terms REO, bank-owned, short sale or HUD home? And have you even wondered what the heck all those terms mean? Here are some definitions used to describe common types of distressed properties:
Foreclosure: This refers to the process... (Read More)
Think that you need a 20 percent downpayment to purchase a home? Many prospective home buyers buy into this myth, studies show. Yet research shows that among those who take out a mortgage to purchase a home, the median downpayment is about 10... (Read More)
Eight seconds.
Not much time, right? But that’s how long you have to catch a buyer’s attention when selling a home. So, you’ve got to make those seconds count from the moment a prospective buyer arrives on your property.
It’s not just... (Read More)
You found a home your family loves. But you're not the only one who wants it. What's the best way to make an offer on a home that other buyers are vying for as well? Here are some ways to put your best foot forward:
Start off with your best... (Read More)
Homeowner and renter insurance plans are designed to protect you in the event of a disaster such as a fire. But with all the items in an average household, it's imperative that you document your belongings so that you can file an accurate and timely... (Read More)
When it comes time to sell your home, you'll need to decide which types of repairs and improvements you'll want to make before it's listed for sale. Should you update your kitchen? Apply fresh paint to the living room? Plant flowers? Clean or... (Read More)