A VA loan is a type of mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and is available to current service members, veterans and eligible surviving spouses. VA loans offer several advantages, including no private mortgage insurance (PMI) and no down payment required. When qualifying for a VA purchase or refinance, you need to meet certain minimum residual income requirements based on your requested loan amount, where you will be buying, and how many people will live in the home. Here’s how it works: Read More “Understanding Residual Income for VA Loans” →

Read More “Americans’ Housing Confidence is at a Post-Crash High” →

As you work through the homebuying and loan application process, be aware that large financial transactions, such as a home purchase, can make you a target for fraud. It’s important to know how to protect yourself against identity theft and other types of fraud. Scammers may pose as third-party companies and attempt to appear as though they are involved with your transaction. Here are some recommendations to keep your information safe when transferring funds for a large real estate purchase: Read More “Important Tips To Avoid Wire Transfer Fraud” →

Moving into your new home is an exciting time! But before you celebrate, there are a few items you’ll want to check off your list to ensure your safety and well-being in your new home.
Read More “Things to Take Care of When You First Move Into a Home” →

As the U.S. economy continues to show signs of recovery and improvement, it’s no surprise that buyers from outside the country are increasingly eyeing U.S. real estate as a good investment. Real estate is a tangible asset that may increase in value over time and can provide a positive rate of return with less volatility than the stock market. There are potential tax advantages as well. Whether you are a professional relocating for work, an international investor, or a first generation immigrant living in the U.S., there are home purchase and financing options available to resident and non-resident buyers. Here’s some insight into the basics – from the home search to securing financing:
Read More “What International Buyers Need to Know About U.S. Real Estate” →

Read More “What Home Type Is Best For you?” →

Is a real estate bubble to blame for sudden drops in the stock market? Does stock market volatility indicate that a housing crash and recession are imminent? Probably not. Although there are some correlations between stock market activity and the health of the housing market, there isn’t a direct, consistent cause and effect relationship between the two. There are always other factors at work that help to complete the big picture. Here’s some insight into how rates, the housing market and the stock market are intertwined, but still need to be considered separately. Read More “What Does Stock Market Volatility Mean for the Housing Market?” →

Every so often there’s a home on the market that’s for sale by its owner. Usually, it’s because the seller wants to try their luck without an agent. These types of listings can still offer great deals, but they also come with some nuances. Here’s what you should know about a home that’s for sale by owner. Read More “What to Know About a For Sale by Owner Home” →

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If you’re selling your home, you’ll want it to look its best in order to get offers. But you’ll also want your property to retain its value so that when your appraisal comes in, it will reflect how much time and effort you’ve invested into your home over the years. Here are some quick maintenance items you can complete to help spruce up your home to attract potential buyers. Read More “Prepare Your Home For Maximum Sale Value” →