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Market Insight to Help Buy or Sell a Home
The Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report uncovers some interesting insight into preferences and feelings about homeownership in America, as well as challenges facing those in the housing market. Whether you are planning to buy or sell a home, or assist a client in doing so, this research could help you gain the edge you need to achieve your goals. Here’s a brief snapshot of the findings!
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3 Questions to Answer Before Buying a Second Home
What is your favorite escape? A coastal retreat. A rustic mountain hideaway. A loft with a city view. Whatever you prefer, a vacation home can be a lifestyle upgrade that provides a respite from the daily grind. As an investment property, that second home may also help achieve your financial goals and plan for the future. But, how do you figure out if owning a second home is even in the realm of possibility? Answering these three questions below will help you put forth a plan to make your home away from home a reality. Read More “3 Questions to Answer Before Buying a Second Home”
Eliminate Mortgage Insurance Faster and Save
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is often thought of as a “necessary evil.” It protects the lender and helps you purchase your home, but, it’s an added monthly expense that you will likely be anxious to get rid of as soon as possible. So, how do you eliminate monthly mortgage insurance? Below are some options to consider.
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FHA vs Conventional – Choosing Which Loan Is Best for You
From location, to budgeting, to the right floor plan, there is a lot to consider when searching for the perfect home. In addition to choosing the home features that matter most, you are also faced with decisions about home financing.
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Setting Goals to Achieve Homeownership
As a first step in preparing for a home purchase, it’s important to determine if you are actually ready to become a homeowner. Are you able to stay put for a while? Is your income fairly stable? If you answered yes to both questions, the next step is to carefully consider your finances. Resolve to do the following in the New Year and you could be ready to purchase a home sooner than you think – maybe even ahead of any anticipated rate increases.
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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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How to Save For a Home While Managing Student Loan Debt
First-time homeowners are often younger than the average homebuyer, which means lower income levels, less money saved and, typically, more student loan debt. Concerns about student loans often discourage would-be first-time buyers from pursuing their goal of homeownership. If you’re considering purchasing your first home, these tips can help get you there.
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What The Self-Employed Need to Know About Home Loans
Qualifying for a mortgage can be more complex for someone who does not have pay stubs and a W2 form to verify consistent income. If you’re an entrepreneur with your own business and fall into this category, don’t worry—there are loans for you. You just need to know how to navigate. I asked RPM’s EVP, Julian Hebron, to explain how specialized loan products serve the specific needs of self-employed home buyers.
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Can Your Home Purchase Financing Beat A Cash Offer?
The concept of home is special to each of us in our own way, so shopping for a home can be emotional. Once you connect with a home that’s just right for you, emotions can run hot because that’s when you need to get the seller to accept your offer.
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