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Bank vs Broker: What’s the Difference in Mortgage Services?
“Should I work with a bank or a broker?” This is a question often asked by home buyers as they evaluate options for a mortgage service provider who will best suit their needs. Recent news has only done more to shine a bright light on how the lines between mortgage services, traditional banking (such as checking and savings accounts), and higher level investments are blurred. Consumers today have choices that come with greater complexity and consequence than in years past.
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Qualifying for a VA Loan May Be Easier Than You Think
A recent survey by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) revealed that homeownership rates are higher among veterans and active military than those who have never served, especially within younger age groups. So, why are military personnel outpacing their non-military peers when it comes to owning a home? There are many possible explanations, but the impact of VA Loan benefits is certainly a factor. Of those surveyed by NAR, 54 percent of veterans and 74 percent of active military said they used VA Loans to finance their home purchase.
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10 Chores to Do Every Year around Daylight Saving Time
If You Can Pay Off Your Mortgage Early, Should You?
Depending on your financial goals, plans, and current age, the decision of whether to pay off your mortgage may be something that has crossed your mind. If you’re heading toward retirement, paying off your mortgage may certainly provide peace of mind. But, does eliminating the monthly payment actually improve your 
financial situation? When rates are as low as they are today, it’s worthwhile to carefully weigh the responsibility of a monthly payment against the rewards of having access to cash for investing and the pursuit of other goals. Living debt-free sounds great. But so does investing in your future. Here are some things to consider before deciding whether an early mortgage payoff is right for you.
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How Much Cash Do I Need To Close On A Home?
5 Simple and Fun Ways to get Your Home into the Halloween Spirit
Halloween is not only an opportunity to dress up and go trick-or-treating, but it is also a time to get creative and decorate your home. These fun DIY projects will make for a fun night with your family and get you into the Halloween spirit!
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Accessing Your Home’s Equity: HELOCs and Second Mortgages
One benefit of owning your home is that you might qualify to borrow against it, and if so, the interest on your borrowing cost is tax deductible. A “home equity loan” can come in handy when you need funds for home repairs, debt consolidation, college tuition and more.
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The Difference Between Fixed and Adjustable Rate Mortgages
5 Fall Home Improvement Must-Do’s
Now that school is back in session and the leaves are beginning to change, it may be a good time to take on some fall home improvement projects. Maintenance is an essential element of homeownership that can change with the seasons. From roof repairs to fireplace safety, it is difficult to know where to begin. But, completing the following tasks as you head into fall will help ensure a comfortable, efficient and healthy home environment going into the winter months.
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