Should You Use Your 401k For a Down Payment

Read this before you borrow from your 401(k) to purchase a home

August 6, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

When buying a home, you may borrow from your 401(k) retirement plan for your down payment. But it is not always the right choice.

How to rush your mortgage to the closing table

July 31, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

When you close on your mortgage in 30 days or fewer, you can get access to lower mortgage rates than the general population. Here’s how to close quickly.

Avoiding PMI is costing you $13,000 per year

July 28, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

“Experts” tell you to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). They don’t tell you, though, that you could be leaving five-figure returns on the table.

Home inspections: A must for every home buyer

July 22, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

When you buy a home, it’s more than just your right to commission a home inspection — it’s your best way to stave off buyer’s remorse. Protect yourself.

Down payment gifts: How to give and receive a cash down payment gift for a home

June 13, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Step-by-step instructions for accepting a cash downpayment gift on a home, including a ready-to-use gift letter template.

Buying a home mortgage after bankruptcy foreclosure

Mortgage after bankruptcy: How soon can you buy a home?

May 31, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Getting approved for a new mortgage after bankruptcy can happen in as little as one year.

4 types of mortgage companies: Which will give you the “best deal”?

May 10, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Don’t just compare rates and fees when shopping for a mortgage loan. For instance, some types of mortgage companies can get you approved when another can’t.

Warrantable & non-warrantable condo mortgage rules updated

May 7, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Demand for condos is increasing nationwide and getting approved for a mortgage just got a little easier. How to qualify, plus access to today’s rates.

Refinance Calculator - Should You Refinance Or Pay Off Your Mortgage

How Much Do Extra Mortgage Payments Really Save You?

April 22, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Making extra mortgage payments sounds like a great idea. But other factors should weigh into the decision, like savings goals and current mortgage rates.

Best mortgages for multi-generational families

February 24, 2018 in About Mortgages Buying a home Mortgage Strategy

Buying a home with family members can be a challenge. But mortgages for multi-generational families can make it easier.

How to shop for a mortgage: Don’t be intimidated into paying too much

February 21, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Don’t just take a mortgage because it’s fast or easy. Take a little time to shop for a mortgage and save thousands. Here’s how.

How much do you need to know about mortgages to get one?

February 20, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

You don’t need to be an expert to negotiate a great mortgage. It only takes a few minutes if you follow these simple tips.

What mortgage rate history can tell us about the future

February 15, 2018 in About Mortgages Economic News Essential Mortgage Miscellany Federal Reserve First-Time Home Buyers Forecasts Homeownership Topics Mortgage Rates Mortgage Strategy Real Estate Refinance Uncategorized

How useful is mortgage rate history? Mortgage rate history may sound a pretty boring topic. Indeed, you may subscribe to the Henry Ford school, which believes that all history is bunk. However, knowing how mortgage rates behaved in the past can help you understand what might happen to them in the future. That knowledge could […]

Tips for landlords: why landlords should consider a blanket mortgage

February 12, 2018 in About Mortgages Essential Mortgage Miscellany Mortgage Products Mortgage Strategy Real Estate Uncategorized

A mortgage for residential landlords Are you unfamiliar with the term “blanket mortgage?” Don’t worry. Plenty of professionals in the financial sector have never been near one. And they know little more about them than you do. But if you invest in real estate — perhaps as a residential landlord — you may find a blanket mortgage […]

Are you financially ready to buy a home?

February 2, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

For many people, it’s part of the American Dream to own a home. Are you thinking of buying a home? Here’s how you’ll know if you’re really ready to do it.

Will Your HELOC Payment Skyrocket In 2018?

January 16, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

Second mortgage payment can increase when the loan “resets,” or enters its full repayment period. Create an exit strategy before your payments rise.

Should I Refinance? – Reduce Your Interest Rate With 2018‘s Low Rates

January 15, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

“Should I refinance my mortgage?” An analytical look at reasons to refinance, plus how to lock today’s mortgage rates with no closing costs.

How To Refinance Your Second Home : 2018 Guidelines, Rates, & Cash-Out Rules

January 9, 2018 in Cash Out Refinance Mortgage Strategy

Owners of vacation homes are discovering low rates and easier qualification standards for second home refinances. Get cash out, lower your rate, and make your vacation residence more affordable.

state down payment assistance tax deduction

Your state may let you deduct savings for down payments

January 3, 2018 in About Mortgages Buying a home Essential Mortgage Miscellany FHA Home Buying Homeownership Topics Mortgage Strategy Real Estate Renters

Some states help with homeownership There is a small but growing number of states that are using their tax systems to encourage would-be homeowners to save for their down payments. Is yours one of those that allow you to make deductions? And how much help might you get? Read on to find out. Down payments […]

This credit card rule makes mortgage qualification easier

January 3, 2018 in Mortgage Strategy

A change in the way credit card debt is calculated makes it easier for to get mortgage-qualified. Read more about the change and see today’s live mortgage rates.

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