TITLE INSURANCE: QUIET BUT POWERFUL PROTECTION FOR BOTH BUYERS AND LENDERS When homebuyers get their closing cost estimates they inevitably find that a certain portion of their funds goes to pay for title insurance. Title insurance is seen by them and often by the real estate industry as a “necessary evil,” as how most feel […]
2 Myths Holding Back Home Buyers
October 30, 2019 by ·
Freddie Mac recently released a report entitled, “Perceptions of Down Payment Consumer Research.”Their research revealed that, “For many prospective homebuyers, saving for a down payment is the largest barrier to achieving the goal of homeownership. Part of the challenge for those planning to purchase a home is their perception of how much they will need to save for the down […]
Things to Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage
October 14, 2019 by ·
You have decided that you are going to take action to purchase your own home and have applied for a home loan with your Mortgage Loan Officer. Of course, you are going to obtain your Credit Approval from underwriting to ensure a smooth process. You’re undoubtedly excited and nervous about the opportunity and want to […]
4 Tips for Making a Competitive Offer
October 12, 2019 by ·
So, you’ve been searching for that perfect house to call ‘home,’ and you’ve finally found it! The price is right, and in such a competitive market, you want to make sure you make a good offer so that you can guarantee that your dream of making this house yours comes true! Below are 4 steps provided by Freddie […]
The Ultimate Truth about Housing Affordability
September 17, 2019 by ·
There have been many headlines decrying an “affordability crisis” in the residential real estate market. While it is true that buying a home is less affordable than it had been over the last ten years, we need to understand why and what that means. On a monthly basis, the National Association of Realtors (NAR), produces a Housing Affordability […]
Renters Paying Substantially More While Owning Costs Less
September 12, 2019 by ·
In a recent Insights Blog, CoreLogic reported that rent prices have skyrocketed since 2005. Meanwhile, the typical mortgage payment has actually decreased. “CoreLogic’s national rent index was up 36% in December 2018 compared with December 2005, while the typical mortgage payment was down 4% over that period.” Why the difference between the costs of renting versus owning? […]
3 Questions You Need To Ask Before Buying A Home
September 5, 2019 by ·
If you are debating purchasing a home right now, you are probably getting a lot of advice. Though your friends and family have your best interests at heart, they may not be fully aware of your needs and what is currently happening in the real estate market. Ask yourself the following three questions to help […]
Looking to Upgrade Your Current Home? Now’s May Be The Time to Move-Up!
August 12, 2019 by ·
In every area of the country, homes that are priced at the top 25% of the price range for that area are considered to be Premium Homes. In today’s real estate market there are deals to be had at the higher end! This is great news for homeowners who want to upgrade from their current house […]
Homebuyers Shouldn’t Worry About 2008 All Over Again
August 5, 2019 by ·
Last week, realtor.com released a survey of active home shoppers (those who plan to purchase their next home in 1 year or less). The survey asked their opinion on an impending recession and its possible impact on the housing market. Two major takeaways from the survey: 42% believe a recession will occur this year or next (another 16% said […]
How to Put Your Housing Cost to Work for You
July 30, 2019 by ·
There has been a lot written about the benefits of homeownership. One benefit that continues to rise to the top is the added wealth homeowners gain simply by paying their mortgage while their home increases in value over time. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) recently broke down the equity gained from price appreciation and principal payments […]
