The Pros and Cons of Paying Your Mortgage Bi-weekly Vs. Monthly

July 9, 2015

When applying for a new mortgage or after closing, many will have the option to choose between a single monthly mortgage payment or smaller bi-weekly payments. There are benefits and drawbacks associated with both options, and some personal financial considerations may need to be reviewed in order to make a decision that is best for the individual.

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Let’s Talk Hardwood: Why Converting Your Home to Hardwood Flooring Will Boost Its Value

July 8, 2015

When a homeowner makes the decision to upgrade flooring in one area of the home or throughout the entire space, there are numerous materials that may be considered. While each material option has its unique benefits and advantages, many are drawn to hardwood flooring as an option.

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Start with the Basics: How to Create a Budget to Determine How Much Mortgage You Can Afford

July 7, 2015

A mortgage is typically one of the biggest monthly payments and financial responsibilities that a person is responsible for. Mortgage payments usually impact the person’s budget significantly for several decades or longer.

While there are mortgage calculators online that can be used to estimate an affordable mortgage payment, it is important to start with a basic budget. A budget will allow you to more accurately determine how large of a mortgage payment is truly affordable before applying for a new mortgage.

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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 6, 2015

July 6, 2015

Last week’s housing-related economic events included the Case-Shiller Home Price Index reports for April, the Commerce Department’s Pending Home Sales report and a report on Construction Spending. In other economic news, Non-Farm Payrolls, the ADP Employment report and Consumer Confidence reports were released. Freddie Mac’s mortgage rates summary and the weekly unemployment claims report were released as usual.

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3 Reasons Why the Lowest Mortgage Interest Rate Isn’t Always Your Best Option

July 2, 2015

One of the more common methods that home loan applicants use to find the best loan program available is to compare interest rates, but choosing the lowest rate possible is not always the best option available. In fact, in some cases, it may be one of the least advantageous options when all factors are considered.

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Case-Shiller: Home Price Growth Slower in April

July 1, 2015

According to the Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index for April, home prices slowed from the March reading of 4.30 percent year-over-year to 4.20 percent year-over-year.

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Buying a New Home? 3 Tips for Being Approved for a Second Mortgage – and How to Manage It

June 30, 2015

Applying for a second mortgage is a great way to keep your down payment amount to a minimum and to keep more of your cash in your bank account. It can also help you to avoid making PMI payments…

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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 29, 2015

June 29, 2015

Last week’s economic news was largely positive as both new and existing home sales beat expectations. The Federal Housing Finance Agency reported that home price growth held steady in May, while weekly jobless claims edged up, but were lower than expected.

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Safety Tips: 5 Ways to Prepare for a House Fire – and What to Do if One Breaks Out

June 26, 2015

House fires can break out for a wide range of reasons, and these include everything from grease fires while cooking in the kitchen to lightning striking the home.

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Summer’s Coming! Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal and Get a Quick Sale with These 3 Tips

June 25, 2015

Curb appeal is important in the home sales process, and this is because it will impact the overall first impression that potential home buyers have about the property.

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