24 Jul 2025
By Mark Feder

How to Determine Your Ideal Monthly Mortgage Payment

Mortgage Tips
Buying a home is one of the most exciting financial decisions you will ever make, but understanding what you can comfortably afford each month is essential for long-term success. Your ideal monthly mortgage payment should not just fit within your budget today, but also allow for financial flexibility and security in the future. Start With Your Total Monthly IncomeBegin by calculating your total monthly household income before taxes. This provides a clear foundation for your homebuying budget. Most financial experts recommend that your total housing expenses should not exceed twenty-five to thirty percent of your gross monthly income. This includes…
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10 Jul 2025
By Mark Feder

Creative Ways to Use Rent-to-Own Agreements to Buy a Home

Home Buyer Tips
A rent-to-own agreement is a contract that allows a tenant to rent a home with the option to buy it later. Part of the monthly rent payment typically goes toward the future down payment or purchase price. This approach can be ideal for buyers who need more time to improve their credit, save money, or get financially ready for homeownership. It blends the flexibility of renting with the long-term goal of owning. Why Rent-to-Own Appeals to Future BuyersRent-to-own is especially attractive to those who may not yet qualify for a traditional mortgage but are motivated to own a home. It…
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09 Jul 2025
By Mark Feder

The Psychology of Homebuying and Emotions vs. Financial Logic

Home Buyer Tips
Buying a home is not just a financial decision, it is an emotional one too. For many people, homeownership represents stability, success, and personal freedom. Whether it is the excitement of finding your dream kitchen or imagining holidays with family, emotions naturally come into play. These feelings can create a strong connection to a property and often influence the decisions buyers make, sometimes even more than logic does. Why Emotions Often Drive DecisionsWhen touring homes, buyers may be swayed by how a space makes them feel rather than what fits their budget or long-term needs. It is easy to fall…
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21 May 2025
By Mark Feder

Pet-Friendly Mortgages And How Owning Pets Could Affect Your Loan Choices

Mortgage Tips
We love our pets, they are part of the family. But did you know that your furry (or feathered) friend could play a surprising role in your homebuying journey? While your dog probably will not impact your credit score, being a pet owner can influence where and how you buy a home, and even the type of loan you choose.As a mortgage originator, I have worked with many clients who did not realize their pets could affect everything from HOA rules to homeowners’ insurance policies. Here is what you need to know before you start the house hunt with your…
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