Mortgage Basics

happy couple embracing each other front of their home

Homebuyers
July 19, 2024

How to Qualify for a Mortgage with Less-Than-Perfect Credit

Less-than-perfect credit doesn't have to hold you back from qualifying for a mortgage—it's possible. Here's how.

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Homebuyers
July 16, 2024

Insider Tips and Tricks: Mortgage Lenders Reveal Secrets to a Smooth Homebuying Experience

Buying a home may initially feel overwhelming. However, with the right preparation, you can streamline the process and save time, money—and save yourself plenty of stress.

A lovely two-story house with gray vinyl siding surrounded by a well manicured lawn

Homebuyers
June 21, 2024

Beat the Heat: 7 Ways to Save Money on Buying a Home This Summer

The challenges of today's housing market don’t mean that would-be buyers and bargain-hunters should despair. Instead, they should strategize. In fact, there are plenty of ways that buyers can save big money.

Homebuyers
June 11, 2024

How the Right Lender Can Guide You Through the Entire Homeownership Journey

You are ready to buy your home, but where do you start? From obtaining the initial loan approval to finally moving into your new home, this article outlines the crucial stages to ensure a seamless experience.

Homebuyers
May 31, 2024

How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Once you've been pre-approved for the mortgage, you'll have between 30 and 90 days to shop around for homes.

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Homebuyers
May 30, 2024

How Long Does Mortgage Pre-Approval Take?

For the average applicant, mortgage pre-approval before buying a home takes seven to 10 days. While lenders can often provide a pre-approval letter sooner than that, it's important to factor in a larger window to ensure that you have plenty of time to make an offer after you begin looking at homes.

A split photo with a house on either side, one with a for sale sign and the other with a sold sign

Homebuyers
May 27, 2024

Buyer's Markets vs. Seller's Markets: Understanding the Key Differences

A buyer's market favors home shoppers. They often have more choices and additional bargaining power. A seller's market is often defined by a low supply of homes for sale. That can force buyers to compete to get offers accepted.

A man wearing a hard hat and holding a clip board inspect the vinyl siding of a home

Homebuyers
May 23, 2024

FHA Appraisal Red Flags

An FHA red flag is any safety hazard, health hazard, or deteriorating element of a home that would jeopardize financing.

Homebuyers
May 23, 2024

What Is a Title Search in Real Estate?

The property title search is a standard part of closing. Its purpose is to confirm the seller's legal right to sell a property. Here's everything you need to know.