Why Closing Old Credit Accounts Can Hurt Your Mortgage Approval

When you are preparing to buy a home, it is natural to want your credit profile to look clean and organized. Many buyers think closing old credit accounts will improve their score, simplify their finances, and make them appear more responsible to lenders. In reality, closing old accounts can have the opposite effect. Those accounts play a much bigger role in your credit profile than most people realize and shutting them down can create sudden changes that impact your mortgage approval. Understand How Closed Accounts Affect Your Credit History Your credit history length is a major part of your credit…
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Will You Need Private Mortgage Insurance on Your Mortgage Loan?

When preparing to buy a home, many borrowers focus on the interest rate and monthly payment, but mortgage insurance is another important factor to understand. Private mortgage insurance is often required when a borrower makes a smaller down payment and knowing how it works can help you plan more confidently and avoid surprises during the loan process. What Private Mortgage Insurance IsPrivate mortgage insurance is a type of insurance that protects the lender, not the borrower. It is typically required when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. Because a lower down payment increases lender risk,…
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A Season of Generosity and Homeownership Opportunities

The time between Thanksgiving and the New Year is known for gratitude, togetherness and heartfelt giving. Many families share meaningful gifts during this stretch of the year, and some buyers discover that these seasonal acts of generosity can help make homeownership possible. If you have found the right home but need help with upfront costs, financial gifts from loved ones may be the support that brings your plans together. Understanding Financial Gifts for Homebuyers Financial gifts are funds given by approved donors to help you cover mortgage related expenses, including the down payment and closing costs. These gifts can ease…
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Understanding How Debt Affects Your Ability to Buy a Home

Many future buyers think they must eliminate every debt before applying for a mortgage. Reducing debt is helpful, but it is not a requirement for homeownership. You can qualify for a loan even if you have credit cards, student loans or a car payment. What matters most is how well you manage those obligations and how they fit into your overall financial picture. Why Lenders Pay Attention to Your DebtWhen you apply for a mortgage, the lender reviews your debt-to-income ratio. This is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward debt payments. A high ratio signals financial…
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