Down payments are common for first-time homebuyers. It seems that the initial financial stab at home ownership is among the greatest roadblocks of owning a home, especially in high-cost urban housing markets. Gift funds are often the answer. Family members willing to pitch in … [Read more...] about What’s the deal with gift funds as a down payment?
Mortgages
Real Estate Trivia
Ready for some real estate trivia? Ready to challenge your friends? Let everyone know how you did in the comments. Try this Real Estate trivia game at a party. Challenge your friends. It isn't so easy, is it? You can show them how smart you are. Or, better yet, share … [Read more...] about Real Estate Trivia
Saving for a Down Payment? There’s an App for That.
I usually don’t put share links to apps that I love, but in this case, it can help you when you're saving for a down payment – really. I use it myself. When the market last year skyrocketed in the early months then took a nosedive at the end of the year, I still did well. To … [Read more...] about Saving for a Down Payment? There’s an App for That.
Help! I’m Priced Out of the Market!
With today’s surging real estate prices, you may be priced out of the market. If you can't afford to buy where you want to live, there is a solution. Don't stand by the sidelines as values keep shooting upwards. If you do, prices will always be just out of reach. Maybe you … [Read more...] about Help! I’m Priced Out of the Market!
Private Mortgage Insurance – What and When?
If you are required to have Private Mortgage Insurance, you need to understand what it is, why it’s necessary and when it’s required. Mortgage Insurance lowers the risk (to the lender) of making the loan. Basically, it’s an insurance policy for the lender but you, the … [Read more...] about Private Mortgage Insurance – What and When?
No More Loan Committee
There are a lot of people (yes, and computer programs) behind the scenes who are involved in getting your mortgage approved. A Loan Committee is not one of them. Let’s look behind the curtain to unmask all these ghost people. The following infographic pertains to Mortgage … [Read more...] about No More Loan Committee