If you’re in the market for a new house or condo, you may also need a loan officer to help with underwriting and securing a mortgage. We suggest talking to two or more loan officers to find one who instills confidence. There is a trade-off. Sometimes the best rate doesn’t… read more →
As the “Big Day” approaches, first time homebuyers may feel an array of emotions. Excitement, accomplishment, and maybe even a little anxiety are all normal feelings. Do not worry. With this checklist, you will be sure to have all ducks in a row so that come closing day, all… read more →
You’ve checked out the schools and read neighborhood crime statistics. You’ve timed your commute and figured out where to buy groceries. But what are you missing when it comes to evaluating a new neighborhood? Don’t forget to check these seven neighborhood details before you sign a lease or buy a… read more →
Living in cities is expensive. But what can make parting with that monthly rent more painful is you get so little for such a big number. Living in tiny apartments is pretty much the norm in places such as New York City or San Francisco. To afford to live in… read more →
There’s more that goes into buying a home for the first time besides shopping online for mortgage rates. To find the perfect home, you have to log off of the computer, get in your car and see homes for yourself. One way to do that is visiting open houses. First-time… read more →
The home-improvement shows you see on TV make it look so easy. Buy a complete dump of a house with “good bones,” and presto change-o, turn it into your dream home. The reality, however, is that buying a fixer-upper is some serious work. One option is to hire someone to… read more →
You want to start climbing the property ladder. You want to buy your own home. But there’s just one problem: You don’t have the cash for a 20 percent down payment. What should you do? First, let’s assess your current situation: Are you a first-time homebuyer? Or do you own a home?… read more →