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10 Oct 2025
By Mark Feder

The Connection Between Your Debt-to-Income Ratio and Mortgage Approval

Mortgage Tips
When applying for a mortgage, one of the most important factors lenders review is your debt-to-income ratio. This simple calculation helps determine how much of your monthly income is already committed to paying debts, and it plays a major role in whether you qualify for a home loan. Understanding how this ratio works can improve your chances of securing the right mortgage. What Debt to Income Ratio MeansYour debt-to-income ratio, often called DTI, measures the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying debts. These debts include credit cards, car loans, student loans, and the expected mortgage payment. Lenders…
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09 Oct 2025
By Mark Feder

Reverse Mortgages for Retirement Planning

Mortgage Tips
As homeowners approach retirement, many begin to think about how to maximize their financial security while maintaining independence. For those who own a home with significant equity, a reverse mortgage can provide an additional source of income. While this product is not right for everyone, it can be a powerful tool for retirees who want to supplement their savings. How Reverse Mortgages WorkA reverse mortgage allows homeowners aged 62 or older to convert a portion of their home equity into cash. Unlike traditional mortgages, there are no monthly payments required. Instead, the loan balance grows over time and is repaid…
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08 Oct 2025
By Mark Feder

Creative Mortgage Options Shared Appreciation and Other Alternatives

Mortgage Tips
Traditional mortgages are not the only way to finance a home. For buyers who want more flexibility or who face unique financial circumstances, creative mortgage options can provide alternative pathways to homeownership. These products are not always as well-known as standard fixed-rate loans, but they can be powerful tools when used wisely. Shared Appreciation Mortgages ExplainedA shared appreciation mortgage allows a lender or investor to provide a loan in exchange for a percentage of the future appreciation of the property. This often means lower monthly payments or reduced upfront costs for the borrower. When the home is sold, refinanced, or…
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07 Oct 2025
By Mark Feder

Interest-Only Mortgages Explained

Mortgage Tips
When shopping for a mortgage, you may come across an option that allows you to pay only the interest for the first several years of the loan. These are called interest-only mortgages, and while they may sound appealing at first glance, they are not the right fit for everyone. Understanding how they work and who benefits from them is key to making a smart decision. How Interest-Only Mortgages WorkAn interest-only mortgage allows borrowers to pay only the interest on their loan for an initial period, often five to ten years. During this time, monthly payments are much lower compared to…
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