A Home Loan Designed For You
Whether you are a first time homebuyer or an experienced real estate investor, having a mortgage team you can count on is crucial.
Gezellig (“heh-zell-ick”) a Dutch word that can be used to describe a person, place or a situation that is inviting, cozy and comfortable while delivering an overall positive and enjoyable experience.
Our company name is our culture, and it is everything you the customer should experience from the beginning of the loan process to the moment you walk through the front door of your new home. Whether your loan is a refinance or home purchase, our goal is to offer you an enjoyable loan experience that is trustworthy, easy, comfortable and efficient. Leaving you with no hidden fees, delays or unanswered questions.
Whether you are a first time homebuyer or an experienced real estate investor, having a mortgage team you can count on is crucial.
We pride ourselves on excellent communication and easy accessibility when you need us. Our experienced staff is here to guide you every step of the way.
Fill out the questionnaire on this page to start a discussion about your mortgage needs today!
Fixed Rate Mortgage
Interest Rate and payments remain the same for the entire term of the loan.
FHA Loan
An FHA loan provides a government-insured loan with flexible loan options.
VA Loan
VA Loans offer flexible options as either fixed-rate or ARM mortgages.
Rehab Loan
Roll the costs of the renovation into your loan.
USDA Loan
Purchase a home with no money down in certain rural and suburban areas.
Jumbo Loan
Jumbo loans offer maximum flexibility for home financing for larger loans.
First Time Home Buyer
Popular loan programs for first time home buyers.
Low Down Payment Options
Explore options that may make you a home owner with a low down payment.
Investment Property
Mortgage loan programs for vacation and investment properties.
Please check out our 27 educational articles we put together..
As an education based mortgage company we strive to provide helpful information.
Visit our learning center to learn some great tips about buying a home.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Shopping for a New Home
Whether this is your first or tenth home purchase, shopping for a new home is an exciting time. It can…
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3rd Party Client Reviews
Client reviews from around the internet.
5 Benefits of Regular Home Maintenance
Owning a home is a significant investment, and like any investment, it requires regular upkeep to maintain its value. Regular home maintenance not only ensures your property remains in good…
Buying a Home in a Seller’s Market: 5 Key Tips
In a seller’s market, where demand outpaces supply, buying a home can be particularly challenging. Homes sell quickly, and bidding wars are common. To help you navigate this competitive landscape,…
5 Hidden Costs of Buying a Home
When buying a home, it’s easy to focus solely on the purchase price, but there are several hidden costs that can catch you off guard. Understanding these additional expenses is…
Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent
Choosing the right real estate agent can make a significant difference in your home buying or selling experience. A skilled agent not only guides you through the process but also…
Selling Your Home Quickly: 6 Proven Strategies
Selling your home quickly can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible. Here are six proven strategies to help you attract buyers and close the…
How to Prepare for a Mortgage Refinance
Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move, potentially lowering your interest rate, reducing monthly payments, or shortening your loan term. Proper preparation is key to a smooth refinancing…
School Districts & Their Impact on Home Values
When buying a home, many factors influence the decision-making process, and school districts are often at the top of the list. Good school districts can significantly impact home values, making…
5 Tips for Buying a Vacation Home
Owning a vacation home is a dream for many, offering a personal retreat and potential rental income. However, buying a second property comes with its own set of challenges. Here…
Preparing Your Home for A Successful Sale
Selling your home can be a complex process, but proper preparation can make all the difference. To attract buyers and achieve the best possible price, it’s essential to get your…
Getting Clear on The Home Inspection Process
A home inspection is a vital step in the home buying process, providing an in-depth look at the property’s condition. Understanding this process can help you make informed decisions and…
Why Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage is Important
In the competitive real estate market, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step that can significantly enhance your home buying journey. Here’s why obtaining pre-approval should be at…
The True Benefits of Homeownership
Owning a home is a cornerstone of the American Dream and for good reason. Beyond the pride of having a place to call your own, homeownership offers a variety of…
Home Buying in 2024: 4 Items to Be Aware of
As we step into 2024, the real estate market continues to evolve, bringing new trends and challenges for homebuyers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the…
Sell Your Home Faster: 7 Staging Techniques for Every Seller
When preparing to sell your home, staging can be a powerful tool to enhance its appeal and capture the interest of potential buyers. Effective staging not only highlights your home’s…
Summertime Home Maintenance: 6 Tips for a Trouble-Free Season
As temperatures rise, maintaining your home becomes crucial to ensure comfort and prevent costly repairs later. Here’s a concise guide to summertime home maintenance that will keep your living space…
Future of Outdoor Living: 2024 Trends to Watch
As we look ahead to 2024, outdoor living continues to evolve, combining elegance with functionality. Homeowners are now seeing their outdoor spaces as extensions of their indoor living areas, equipped…
Boost Your Curb Appeal This Summer: 5 Essential Tips for Homeowners
As summer approaches, enhancing your home’s curb appeal not only contributes to a welcoming atmosphere but can also significantly increase its market value. Here are some practical tips to ensure…
The Upsides of Downsizing: Is Less Really More?
In an era where simplicity and minimalism are gaining momentum, downsizing has emerged as a compelling lifestyle choice for many. This trend goes beyond mere spatial considerations, reflecting a broader…
Top 5 Outdoor Living Trends to Watch For in 2024
As we embrace 2024, the concept of outdoor living has evolved from traditional gardens and patios to sophisticated extensions of the indoor living space. Homeowners are now transforming their outdoor…
Prepare Financially for Homeownership In 5 Steps
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting milestone, yet it requires meticulous financial preparation. Understanding the pathway to financial readiness can transform the dream of owning a home…
4 Ways Remote Work Has Impacted Home Design
The global shift towards remote work has fundamentally reshaped home design, with an increasing demand for dedicated home offices. This transformation reflects the growing need for spaces that accommodate work-from-home…
Trends in Smart Home Tech: Embracing Smart Technology
The concept of smart homes has moved from futuristic fantasy to present-day reality, revolutionizing the way we interact with our living spaces. Smart home technology not only offers unparalleled convenience…
Designing a Home Office: 6 Ideas for Productivity & Comfort
he shift towards remote work has underscored the importance of having a dedicated and well-thought-out home office space. A well-designed office can significantly enhance productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Whether…
2024 Home Design Trends: The Future of Living Spaces
As we move further into the decade, the evolution of home design continues to captivate and inspire. The year 2024 marks a pivotal point in architectural and interior design trends,…
Maximizing Your Home’s Curb Appeal: 6 Top Tips for Sellers
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. Curb appeal—the attractiveness of a property when viewed from the street—plays a pivotal role in attracting potential buyers and…
Understanding Mortgage Rates: Predictions and Trends for 2024
As we continue into 2024, prospective homebuyers and homeowners looking to purchase or refinance are keenly observing the mortgage rate trends. Understanding these rates is crucial as they directly impact…
Navigating Home Buying in the Winter Market: Advantages & Strategies
Being in the mortgage industry we see and study the ebbs and flows of the housing market throughout the year. While spring and summer are traditionally seen as the peak…
First-Time Homebuyer Programs and Incentives: What’s New in 2024?
Navigating the journey to homeownership can be a complex process, especially for first-time buyers. Fortunately, 2024 brings a suite of updated programs and incentives designed to make this journey smoother…
Unlocking Homeownership: Strategies to Afford a Down Payment
For many prospective homebuyers, saving for a down payment can be a significant hurdle on the path to homeownership. However, with careful planning and disciplined saving, achieving that down payment…
5 Crucial Questions to Ask a Mortgage Professional Before Buying a Home
When it comes to purchasing a home, securing the right mortgage is a pivotal step in the process. To ensure you make informed decisions and choose the mortgage that best…
Renovating Before Listing: A Wise Investment or Unnecessary Expense?
The decision to renovate a house before listing it for sale is a significant consideration for homeowners looking to maximize their property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. While renovating…
Finding Your Home Sweet Spot: How to Determine What You Can Afford
Before you embark on your journey to homeownership, it’s crucial to determine how much home you can afford comfortably without straining your finances. Here are some strategies to help you…
Home for the Holidays: The Perks of Buying a Home During the Festive Season
The holiday season is synonymous with warmth, joy, and the smell of freshly baked cookies. It might not be the first time that buying a home crosses your mind during…
Embracing Tomorrow: 6 Home Trend Ideas for 2024
As we step into the future of home design and functionality, 2024 promises a fascinating blend of innovation, sustainability, and a reimagining of living spaces. Here’s a glimpse into the…
Understanding PMI: Unveiling the Key to Homeownership
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a critical element in the world of homeownership, particularly for those who may not have a substantial down payment. Let’s unravel the mystery behind PMI,…
Unlocking Financial Freedom: The Benefits of Buying Over Renting
In the perennial debate of renting versus buying a home, the scales are increasingly tipping in favor of homeownership. While renting provides flexibility, the benefits of buying extend far beyond…
Decoding Current Mortgage Rates: What Homebuyers Need to Know
For prospective homebuyers, understanding the dynamics of current mortgage rates is crucial in making informed decisions and securing the best financing options. As we navigate the real estate landscape in…
5 Mistakes To Avoid As A First-Time Home Buyer
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exhilarating experience, but it comes with its share of challenges and pitfalls, especially for first-time buyers. To ensure a smoother and more…
How to Qualify for a Mortgage with Bad Credit: Tips and Strategies
Securing a mortgage with bad credit may seem like a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. While a lower credit score can pose challenges, there are strategies to improve your…
The Costs of Homeownership: Beyond Your Mortgage Payment, What You Can Expect to Pay
Becoming a homeowner is a significant and exciting milestone, but it’s essential to understand that the expenses extend far beyond the monthly mortgage payment. To ensure financial preparedness, let’s explore…
The Impact of Higher Mortgage Rates: What Homebuyers Need to Know
In the ever-changing landscape of the real estate market, one factor that significantly influences homebuyers is the fluctuation in mortgage rates. Recently, there has been a notable rise in these…
Demystifying the Mortgage Approval Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Homebuyers
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting yet often daunting experience, especially for first-time buyers. The heart of this adventure lies in understanding the intricate steps of the…
Choosing the Right Mortgage: A Comprehensive Comparison of Loan Types
Entering the realm of mortgages can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of choices. The key to successfully navigating this maze lies in understanding the different types of mortgages available.…
How to Improve Your Credit Score: A Roadmap to Financial Wellness
Your credit score is the key that unlocks many financial opportunities, from securing a mortgage to obtaining low-interest loans. If your credit score isn’t where you want it to be,…
10 Ways to Save Energy in Your New Home
Congratulations on your new home! As a new homeowner, you have the opportunity to not only make your space comfortable and inviting but also to make it energy-efficient. Energy efficiency…
10 Things To Do After Buying A Home
Congratulations on your new home! Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a list of responsibilities. To ensure your transition into your new abode is…
5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Foreclosed Home
In today’s challenging housing market, the allure of purchasing a foreclosed home at a lower cost can be irresistibly enticing. After all, who wouldn’t want to snag a property for…
How Much House Do You Really Need?
A common dilemma that many potential homebuyers face: determining how much house they truly need. In a world where “bigger is better” has often been the prevailing sentiment, it’s essential…
The Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Mortgage: Tips for a Smooth Approval Process
Securing a mortgage is a significant step in the home buying journey, and avoiding common mistakes during the application process is essential for a smooth approval experience. As a mortgage…
What Makes a Mortgage Broker or Lender Trustworthy? Evaluating Reputation, Expertise, and Customer Service
Choosing the right mortgage broker or lender is a critical step in the homebuying process. Your financial well-being and the success of your homeownership journey depend on finding a trustworthy…
Mortgage Rates and Trends: What You Need to Know to Make Informed Decisions
When it comes to purchasing a home or refinancing your existing mortgage, understanding mortgage rates and trends is essential for making informed financial decisions. As a mortgage professional, I’m here…
How to Navigate the Homebuying Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Buyers
Are you ready to take the exciting leap into homeownership? As a mortgage professional with years of experience in the real estate market, I understand that purchasing your first home…
What Should I Do First: Sell My Home or Buy a New Home?
If you are moving due to a new job, relocating cities, needing a larger or smaller home, or any other reason, it can be tricky to time things just right.…
What Credit Score Do I Need to Get a Mortgage?
Generally, a credit score of 620 or higher will get the best terms for a mortgage. A higher credit score can make the underwriting and approval process faster and easier,…
How Long Does It Take to Buy a Home?
The exact time that it takes to get from the home search process to turning the key and walking into your new home can vary. Generally, it’s best to estimate…
First Steps to Buy a Home
If you’ve been dreaming of owning your own home, you may be ready to start looking for something with a dreamy master bedroom, plenty of outdoor entertaining space, and a…
Getting Pre-Qualified for a Housing Offer
If you’re getting ready to start your housing search, there are a few documents that can be helpful to have on hand. These can make the offer process much faster…
How Much Do You Need as a Down Payment on a House?
In the market to purchase a home? You may be wondering how much you need to save for a down payment. Typically, 20% of the purchase price is needed for…
What’s the Deal with Raising Rent?
Whether you are a renter or a landlord, you’ve probably thought about rents raising and wondered if it’s the right thing for your situation. There are a few questions on…
When to Call Your Property Manager
Property managers can be a great resource when it comes to enjoying your home without worry. Here are a few situations when a quick phone call can make your life…
Working with a Local Real Estate Broker
For those in the market for a new home or looking to sell their current home, there are a lot of real estate terms to learn. Whether you’ve gone through…
What is a Property Sales Report?
A Property Sales Report is a document that details information about a specific property. This includes the current status and estimates as well as historical information about past sales and…
Are There Any Extras Included when I Buy Real Estate?
You’ve hashed out the details of buying a home. From price per square foot to insurance premiums, you know exactly what you’re getting and what it will cost. But what…
Can I Be My Own Real Estate Agent?
Yes, you can act as your own real estate agent. Anyone can represent themselves in a real estate transaction, even if they are not a licensed real estate agent. As…
3 Ways to Save Money By Making Your New Home Energy Efficient
Energy is one of the biggest ongoing expenses for homeowners. Fortunately, there are ways to decrease your energy bills by making your new home more energy efficient. As a homeowner,…
Why You Need a Real Estate Agent to Find Your Dream Home, And How to Find One
Everyone wants to buy their dream home. You can picture it in your mind, you just need to find it in real life. Making that happen is not as easy…
Home Trends in 2023
Now that we are approaching the halfway point of 2023, there are a few trends that have come up in the home buying and selling industry. Flexible Use Space Home…
Using Technology to Market Your Home
Getting ready to list your home for sale? There are a few technology resources that will help you make the most of your marketing efforts. Whether you are working with…
Understanding the National Association of Realtors
If you have considered buying or selling a home, you may have talked to a real estate professional about how they can help you with the process. A real estate…
What to Know about an Earnest Money Deposit
As you get ready to buy a home, there are a lot of terms to know. One of the first that you will come across is Earnest Money Deposit. What…
When Should I List My Home for Sale?
Thinking about selling your home? While each local area can vary (and a great real estate agent can help you learn about the specific trends in your community), there are…
Navigating Homeownership: Know Your Needs
You may think that the first step to buying a home is to make an offer. While that is an exciting milestone, there are plenty of things you need to…
5 Questions For Interviewing Real Estate Agents
If you’re getting ready to purchase or sell a home, you’ve probably considered working with a real estate agent. These professionals have specialized knowledge not just about the buying and…
Transform Your Home This Spring: Simple Yet Effective Refresh Ideas
As spring blossoms and breathes new life into our surroundings, it’s the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate our homes. Whether you’re interested in tackling a modest decluttering project or embarking on…
How to save for a down payment
It might seem like it will be costly to purchase a home, and you might think that you will have a considerable down payment. Oftentimes, because people think that they…
Easy Storage Solutions for the Homeowner
Have too much stuff cluttering your home? Here are a few helpful tips to make your home more storage-friendly, even in a small space. 4 Helpful Tips for Storing Stuff…
What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a Home?
There are rarely hard and fast requirements for a credit score when it comes to getting approved for a loan. A higher credit score will result in more favorable loan…
Getting Your Home Ready for Ice and Snow
Being a homeowner during the cold winter months comes with a few additional challenges and responsibilities. But rather than wait for damage to occur, it’s best to take precautions to…
Can I Afford a Mortgage?
If you’re getting ready to start house shopping, you’ve probably taken a good look at your budget and wondered how much house you can afford. Maybe you’re asking yourself if…
Can I Use a USDA Loan to Buy a House?
Did you know that the United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, has a home loan program? The USDA Loan is an option that is backed by the USDA and offers…
How Does a Mortgage Work Anyway?
If you plan to purchase a home, you have probably started to research the best mortgage options to make the most of your money. When looking at your home purchase,…
Living Your Best Outdoor Life in the Winter
Cold weather may send many of us running inside to enjoy a steaming mug of hot cocoa, but outdoor living in the winter can be a lot of fun! Whether…
Home Upgrade Ideas for 2023
New year, new look! If you want to upgrade your home in 2023, here are a few ideas to inspire you. With simple DIY projects to major renovations, there’s something…
Should I AirBnB My Home?
Holiday travel can be easy with Airbnb, VRBO, or another rental platform. Not only do you get more space than a traditional hotel room, but you can also look for…
Can I Buy Real Estate Abroad?
If you have been dreaming about owning an exotic beach house, you may be surprised to find that it is easier than you may have thought. It can also be…
5 Types of Real Estate Insurance
Once you buy or rent a home, the next thing on your to-do list should be to set up insurance. Not only does this protect your home in an emergency,…
Home Benefits for Veterans
November is a great time to recognize the contributions of Veterans. But did you know that there are benefits when it comes to homeownership that are available for Veterans year-round?…
What is a Qualified Opportunity Zone?
If you are interested in buying in a neighborhood going through revitalization, there are plenty of benefits that you can use to make the most of your purchase. Through the…
How Walkable is Your Neighborhood?
Homeowners with an eye to sell their home may be hearing words like walkability. But was does it mean and how does it apply to your situation? While it isn’t…
Buying & Selling High-End Real Estate
If you love shows like Selling Sunset and Million Dollar Listing, you may be wondering what it takes to get into the glamorous life of luxury real estate. While it…
Is the Housing Market Changing?
The national economy is a complex system but there are a few signs that potential homebuyers and sellers can look for that show the housing market is shifting. For the…
Building Your Credit
If you are getting ready to buy a house in the next few years, taking time to build your credit is a great way to get the best rates and…
Questions for Your Real Estate Agent
Getting ready to buy or sell a home? You are probably working with a real estate agent or considering reaching out to one for their expertise and guidance. Here are…
Fall Yard Maintenance Tips for the Homeowner
As the air turns crisp and leaves start to fall, there are steps that homeowners can take to keep their houses in the best shape possible. Not only does this…
Read This before Listing Your Home For Sale by Owner
Considering selling your home? You may have thought about listing it yourself as For Sale by Owner or FSBO. This means that you will do all of the work to…
How to Make the Most of Your Home’s Listing Photos
The photos included in your home’s listing are one of the first things that potential buyers look at when browsing through listings. Most will decide to schedule a showing based…
Navigating the Home Search
Looking for a home? It’s not always easy to figure out what to look for, how to search, and ways to get the best deal. Here are a few tips…
4 Great Moving Tips for a New Homeowner
Getting ready to move? This is a fun and exciting time, especially if you are moving into your first home. It can also be stressful and a lot of work.…
What is a Home Warranty?
Home repairs can get costly and create an unexpected hassle and financial burden. A home warranty is a great way to make those costs more predictable. A home warranty is…
Getting Pre-Approved for a Home Loan
If you are starting your home search as a serious buyer, you want to consider getting pre-approved for a home loan. It requires a bit of work upfront but can…
How Does Escrow Work?
When you set up your mortgage payment, you will likely see different items included. Typically, a monthly mortgage payment is made up of principal, interest, taxes, and insurance. All these…
What to Include in a Real Estate Listing
Getting ready to list your home? Great! Whether you are working with a real estate agent or listing it yourself, here are a few things that you want to include…
Should I Get a Pool? Pros and Cons
As summer temperatures reach record highs in many parts of the United States, homeowners are looking for ways to keep cool and have fun. Installing a pool sounds like a…
Should I Rent or Own a Home in 2022?
One of the most-asked questions in the real estate market this year is whether to rent or buy a home. While the answer will be different for everyone and every…
What is a Buyer’s Market and Are We in One?
People looking to buy a home have been seeing prices increase and supply dwindle to almost nothing in some areas. But real estate agents and their clients are beginning to…
How to Boost Your Credit Score to Prepare for Buying a House
If you are getting ready for home ownership, you have probably taken a good long look at your personal finances. Having a great credit score can be helpful when qualifying…
Documents to Keep for Homeowners
Whether you have just closed on a new home purchase or are trying to get years of homeowner documents in order, knowing what to keep and what to get rid…
Budgeting for Homeownership in a Crazy Market
There’s no denying that today’s housing market is expensive. With prices increasing dramatically in the past few years, many potential homebuyers are left wondering if they’ll ever be able to…
Keep Your Home Ready for Fun this Summer
With warmer weather here, now is a great time to take care of maintenance around your home and yard. Take care of summer home maintenance to stay cool and happy…
Documents to Keep for Renters
Renting is often easier and simpler than owning a home. But you should still keep certain documents on hand to make the process smoother, especially in case of emergency. Here…
Making the Most of Your Home This Summer
Summer is almost here! In many parts of the United States, this means hot weather, sunny days, and time off from work or school. To make the most of your…
What is the National Association of Realtors?
If you have ever bought or sold a home, chances are you worked with a real estate agent. These professionals take a licensing exam and provide knowledge about the home…
Making the Most of Your Tax Return as a Homeowner
Did you get a big tax refund this year? If that’s you and you aren’t sure what to do with it, here are a few ideas for those who are…
When to Wait (and When Not to Wait) to Buy a House
Many potential homeowners look at housing inventory, interest rates, and market factors to decide when the time is right to buy a home. Personal goals and circumstances also play a…
The Value of Hardscaping at Your Home
Curb appeal is one of the biggest factors when selling a home. Keeping the exterior of your home tidy and aesthetically pleasing can keep your neighborhood beautiful, encourage other homeowners…
What to expect after your offer is accepted
Did your offer get accepted? If so, congratulations! One of the first major items in the escrow process is the home inspection. Hopefully you took some time for yourself to…
Finding a home and making an offer
In earlier posts we discussed finding the right lender and realtor. Now it is time to move on to the most exciting and sometimes nerve racking part of the home…
How to pick the right real estate agent
In our last post we talked about the pre-approval and how the two most important items that any potential home buyer needed to focus on first was their credit and…
Two major items home buyers need to think about before contacting a realtor.
Many people find it useful to have a checklist and on any good checklist these 2 items should be the first items on that list. as they are essential to…
Selling (or Buying) in Peak Real Estate Season
Produce has a season. So do sports. But did you know that real estate has a peak season as well? People buy and sell homes all year long but there…
A Step-by-Step Guide to Shopping for a New Home
Whether this is your first or tenth home purchase, shopping for a new home is an exciting time. It can also be a stressful and lengthy process. This guide can…
Understanding Cash to Close
If you have received your Closing Disclosure from your lender, you are almost done with your home buying journey. The Closing Disclosure, provided at least three full days before closing…
First-Time Homebuyer’s Checklist
Ready to purchase your first home? Use this easy-to-follow checklist to navigate the path to home ownership. Determine Your Budget: It’s best to determine how much house you can afford…
How to Get Preapproved for a Mortgage
Before you begin your new home search, talk to a lender about getting preapproved for a mortgage. This important step can save you time in negotiations and keep your search…
5 Strategies to Save for a Home
Buying a home is a big purchase, one that takes time to save up to afford. Many homebuyers use a mortgage to finance the majority of the cost, but still…
Finding the Right Location to Buy a Home
They say that buying a home is all about location, location, location. But what if you do not know what location is right for you? Here are a few factors…
Expenses First Time Home Buyers Need to Save For
If you are getting ready to purchase your first home, there are a few expenses that you need to prepare for before getting to the final closing table. Some are…
Understanding an Appraisal Contingency
When buying a new home, you have the chance to put in a number of contingencies to the purchase contract to protect you during the process. A contingency is a…
Should I Buy or Rent?
The biggest question those considering homeownership need to answer is simple: Should I buy or rent my home? Here is a look at the pros and cons of each. Buying…
How Much Income Do I Need to Buy a House?
Homeownership is not just for the ultra wealthy. While income is an important factor when buying a house, knowing exactly how much you need to earn is not as simple.…
What You Need to Know About Cosigning a Mortgage
If your credit, debt, or income is keeping you from buying a house, you may be tempted to have another person in a more stable financial position help with your…
Popular Loans for Buying a Home
Finding a great deal on your home purchase requires that you understand the different types of home loans available. Here are popular mortgage products and who can use them. Conventional…
How to Buy a House with No Money Down
Do you dream of homeownership but can’t come up with the required down payment? Don’t worry. You may be eligible for a no money down mortgage. Some come with stipulations…
Do I Need a Realtor to Buy a House?
When you are ready to make a new home purchase, the first thing to consider is who you want on your team. A Realtor or real estate agent can be…
How Much Do I Need for a House Down Payment?
One of the first hurdles that potential homeowners must overcome is saving up a down payment. It can take years, depending on the home prices in your area and how…
A Home Appraisal Checklist
Searching for and finding the perfect new home is just one step of the home buying process. Once you find the perfect home and have a sales contract, it is…
What Is an FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium?
FHA mortgages are great for homebuyers without a sizable down payment or with low credit. Each situation is unique and based on a combination of factors like income, credit, and…
A Home Inspection Checklist
When purchasing a home, it is always a good idea to have it professionally inspected. Many lenders even require it as a condition of the loan. Home inspectors charge between…
What to Look for in a Neighborhood When Buying a House
Evaluating a potential new home’s features is just one part of finding the perfect place to buy. You should also carefully consider the neighborhood that you will be living in…
Buydown to Reduce Your Mortgage Interest Rate
If you are buying a home, you have probably looked at all kinds of ways to reduce your monthly mortgage costs. These can include putting down a higher down payment…
Buying a House without a Real Estate Agent
Working with a real estate agent can be very helpful when purchasing a house, especially if you are a first-time homebuyer. But for the seasoned, experienced buyers or the newbies…
How to Determine if You Are in a Buyer’s Market or Seller’s Market
Being a savvy real estate buyer or seller requires that you know and understand the market conditions. This includes the types of home, comparable purchases prices, and so much more.…
How Long Does It Take to Buy a House?
The home buying process is exciting but can be lengthy, especially if you have a purchase fall through and have to start over. How long should you expect it to…
How to Get Your House Ready to Sell
You’ve mastered the process of home buying, but are you ready to be a seller when it’s time to move out? Believe it or not, selling your home can be…
Negotiating a House Price as a Buyer
Buying or selling a home often comes with some negotiation. In fact, it is expected and normal for both parties to set a price higher (seller) or make an offer…
What Is the Average Down Payment for a Home?
One of the biggest hurdles to homeownership is saving up the all-important down payment. It can impact how much house you can afford, what types of loan you use, and…
How to Know When You Should Buy a House
Do you enthusiastically pore over home listings on online platforms in your spare time? Is driving around looking for For Sale signs your idea of a perfect Saturday afternoon? If…