What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 16th, 2024

December 16, 2024

Last week featured a light release schedule, with the key highlights being the CPI and PPI reports. The CPI has proven to be exactly within expectations, signaling the Federal Reserve should be on track for another planned rate cut. However, this was offset by higher-than-expected PPI inflation. Despite these mixed signals, both indicators show stable […]

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Why Getting Preapproved Before Your House Hunt Is Crucial

December 13, 2024

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and you want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible. Whether you’re just starting to browse homes or are ready to put in an offer, one of the most important steps you can take is getting preapproved for a mortgage. Preapproved […]

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The Differences Between Hard and Soft Credit Inquiries

December 12, 2024

Credit inquiries, also known as credit pulls or checks, are a standard part of assessing creditworthiness. However, not all credit inquiries are the same. They fall into two main categories: hard and soft credit inquiries. Understanding the differences between these two types is crucial for managing your credit health and avoiding misconceptions. Below, we explore […]

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5 Financial Tasks to Tackle Before the New Year

December 11, 2024

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your financial health and set yourself up for success in the coming year. You can create a solid foundation to achieve your goals by focusing on key areas. Here are five important financial tasks to consider before the new year […]

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Will Refinancing Impact Your Credit?

December 10, 2024

Refinancing a mortgage can provide significant financial benefits, such as lowering your interest rate or accessing home equity. However, it’s important to understand how the process may temporarily affect your credit score. Here’s an in-depth look at the potential short- and long-term effects of refinancing on your credit, along with tips for minimizing any negative […]

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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 9th, 2024

December 9, 2024

With the CPI and PPI scheduled for release in the upcoming week, the previous week was lightly peppered with a small amount of impactful financial data releases. The highlight was the S&P Manufacturing PMI, which reported final numbers for the year showing better-than-expected improvements in the manufacturing sector. Unemployment data also aligned with expectations, reinforcing […]

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Why Refinancing Your Mortgage Before the Year Ends Is a Great Option

December 6, 2024

As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to consider refinancing your mortgage. Whether you’ve been thinking about lowering your monthly payment, securing a better interest rate, or tapping into your home’s equity, refinancing can offer many benefits. However, the timing can make all the difference. Here’s why refinancing before the year […]

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The Role of the Appraisal Contingency in Real Estate Contracts

December 5, 2024

When you’re buying a home, one important component of the real estate contract is the appraisal contingency. This clause protects the buyer in case the property’s appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon sale price. While it’s a common part of many real estate transactions, it’s often not fully understood. Here’s why it’s so important […]

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Mortgage Assistance Programs and Government and Nonprofit Options

December 4, 2024

Purchasing a home is a significant financial milestone, but for many potential buyers, the upfront costs and down payment can be a barrier. Fortunately, various mortgage assistance programs are available through government agencies and nonprofit organizations to help low- and moderate-income homebuyers achieve their dream of homeownership. These programs can provide financial assistance, lower interest rates, […]

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Steps to Prepare for Future Home Financing and Year-End Financial Checklist

December 3, 2024

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take a step back and review your financial health, especially if you plan to purchase a home next year. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, proper preparation can make all the difference when securing a mortgage with favorable terms. Here’s […]

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