Blog – Page 7 of 743

18 Dec 2024

Exploring Down Payment Options for Homebuyers

Home Mortgages

Saving for a down payment is a common hurdle for many homebuyers, but there are several ways to make it happen. Whether you’re tapping into savings, receiving a gift, or utilizing assistance programs, understanding your options can make the journey to homeownership smoother. Common Sources for Down Payments Gifts from Family or Friends Gifts can come from immediate family members, relatives by marriage, legal guardians, or close friends (with proper documentation). Lenders require a gift letter confirming that the money doesn’t need to be repaid. Eligibility rules vary by loan program, so check with your lender. 401(k) Funds Loan Option:…

17 Dec 2024

By Mark Feder

Condo Financing vs. Single-Family Home Mortgages

Home Mortgage Tips

Purchasing a condo can be an exciting step, offering a more affordable option or an appealing lifestyle in certain areas. However, financing a condo differs significantly from securing a mortgage for a single-family home. These differences arise from the shared nature of condo ownership, affecting the underwriting process, appraisal requirements, insurance needs, and sometimes even the interest rate. Understanding the nuances of condo financing will help you make more informed decisions when it comes time to purchase a condo. Key Differences in Condo Financing 1. Appraisal Process Single-Family Homes: A typical appraisal for a single-family home only evaluates the property…

16 Dec 2024

By Mark Feder

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

Financial Reports

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 trends, and overall inflation appears to be moving toward the Federal Reserve's target. The Federal Reserve remains committed to reducing inflation until their goal is achieved. Consumer Price Index Consumer prices rose in November at the fastest pace in seven months. Still, the latest inflation…

13 Dec 2024

By Mark Feder

Why Getting Preapproved Before Your House Hunt Is Crucial

Mortgage

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 vs. Prequalified: What’s the Difference? While you might come across the term prequalification during your home search, it’s important to understand the distinction between being prequalified and preapproved. Prequalification is a simpler process where the lender gathers basic financial information to give you a rough…