Read More “Getting a Gift for Your Down Payment: What You Need to Know” →

Buying a home is an exciting adventure that may also become a stressful life event, especially when delays throw plans off track. Follow these simple tips to avoid unnecessary delays and keep your purchase on schedule to ensure that you get into your dream home – on time!
Read More “Six Tips for a Smooth Closing” →

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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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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” →

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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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.

Read More “FHA vs Conventional – Choosing Which Loan Is Best for You” →

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.

Read More “Setting Goals to Achieve Homeownership” →

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.

Read More “Qualifying for a VA Loan May Be Easier Than You Think” →

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.

Read More “How to Save For a Home While Managing Student Loan Debt” →