Articles by Craig Berry - Page 4

Getting a mortgage with your bank might feel like the natural choice. But it could seriously cost you in the end. Here's why.

New conforming loan limits for 2023 should top $700,000 in most of the U.S. and some lenders have already raised their limits for buyers.

Buying a home for the first time can be complicated. These 7 expert tips will help orient you as you start the home buying process.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a revolving credit line backed by your home's value that turns home equity into cash.

A sale contingency can make buying your next home difficult. Learn how to buy a house while selling your own without a sale contingency.

What's a real estate broker vs. an agent? Or real estate agent vs. Realtor? Here's how to choose the right agent for you.

Do you need a Realtor to buy a house? Technically, no. But a Realtor could be more important than ever in this competitive market.

Your guide to the mortgage loan process. Learn what to expect before, during, and after you apply for a mortgage.

Should you refinance or pay extra? That depends on your current mortgage and your financial goals. Explore the pros and cons of both options.

Your mortgage lender might pull up a lower credit score than you thought you had. Here's why, and how to check the right credit score before you apply.

Some closing costs can increase on the Closing Disclosure (CD) but others can't. Here's how to use the CD to get the deal you were promised.

An appraisal gap happens when the appraisal is lower than your offer. Here's how to navigate this situation as a home buyer.

Everything you should know about FHA vs. VA loans: Pros, cons, requirements, and advice for home buyers.

A rapid rescore can raise your credit score by 100 points or more within days. It is an important tool for home buyers with fixable credit issues.

Home values are rising, and homeowners are no longer sitting on their equity. These cash-out options are helping owners accomplish financial goals.

You may not get dinged for multiple credit inquiries when shopping for a mortgage, as long as you follow these guidelines.

Most people cannot buy a house on unemployment. But many can qualify very soon after going back to work. Learn how to get a mortgage after unemployment.

A mortgage letter of explanation may be required if there are red flags on your application. Here's a simple guide to writing a letter of explanation.

Commission income is usually accepted by lenders if you have a 2-year earnings history. See how lenders calculate commission income for mortgage qualifying.

Mortgage underwriting can take days or weeks depending on your lender and application. Here's what to expect from underwriting and what to do about delays.