When budgeting for a new home, there’s a tendency to focus on saving up for the down payment and closing costs. You may have also factored in the ongoing costs of your mortgage, insurance and property taxes. But those aren’t…
Older homes come with built-in history, a unique character and nostalgic charm. But over many years, they may also harbor hidden problems that can cost a pretty penny once they finally surface. Knowing how to detect and correct these issues…
Refinancing allows borrowers to reduce their monthly mortgage rates and payments, shorten loan terms and convert home equity to cash. But refinancing can be complicated — even responsible borrowers with relatively high credit scores and a history of timely payments…
Many retirees dream of trading the responsibilities of homeownership for the carefree lifestyle of assisted living. Others would rather grow old at home near friends and family, where they can enjoy the fruits of their labor. But not every home…
Spring cleaning is more than an annual tradition. It’s the necessary response to a long winter of tightly sealed homes and trapped indoor allergens. Wiping the slate clean of accumulated dust and dander provides a fresh start prior to peak…
Positioned at the intersection of two adjoining streets, the corner lot is a polarizing topic in real estate circles. For some, it’s a premium plot of land; for others, it’s an area to be avoided. Truth be told, the upsides…
As you may know, saving for a competitive down payment was one of the primary obstacles homebuyers faced in 2023. With high prices and rising mortgage rates, many buyers have turned to down payment assistance (DPA) for relief. But while…
Finding the lowest available mortgage rate can significantly reduce the lifetime costs of your loan. In fact, reducing your rate by even a few percentage points could save you thousands of dollars long-term. But with rates constantly fluctuating and often…
Traditionally, wintertime is a downtime for the real estate market. The weather is colder, wetter and often messy, which can be a little off-putting for potential homebuyers and sellers. But despite these seasonal challenges, winter can actually be advantageous for…
When applying for a mortgage, it’s important to understand the difference between conforming and nonconforming loans. Conforming loans offer more protections and could save you money long-term. Nonconforming loans are more accessible, offer larger loan amounts and carry a wider…
