12 May 2026
By Mark Feder

Local Lender or Online Option? Understanding the Trade-Offs

Mortgage Tips
Choosing the right lender is a critical part of the homebuying process, and many buyers find themselves deciding between a local lender and an online option. While both can provide financing, the experience, level of service, and overall support can vary significantly. Understanding the tradeoffs allows you to choose the option that best fits your needs and helps ensure a smoother transaction from start to finish. The Value of Working with a Local LenderLocal leaders often provide a more personalized and hands-on experience. You typically have direct access to a loan officer who understands your situation and can guide you…
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30 Jan 2026
By Mark Feder

Tips to Remember When Shopping for a New Home Loan

Home Financing Tips
Finding a new home loan can seem challenging, but if you take the proper steps before you start applying for loans, you'll have no difficulty finding a mortgage that works for you and a lender that would love to have you as a borrower. Shopping for a mortgage isn't like shopping for a couch, and there's a lot that goes into the process.So how can you shop for your new home loan in a way that saves you time and gets you the best loan for your needs? Here's what you need to know.Research Loan TypesA lot of home buyers,…
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11 Sep 2025
By Mark Feder

5 Key Steps in the Mortgage Underwriting Process

Mortgage
Buying a home can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Understanding the mortgage underwriting process can make things a lot smoother!  What is Underwriting?Underwriting is when lenders review your financial information to determine if you qualify for a mortgage. They check your income, assets, credit history, and the property itself to assess risk. The 5 Key Steps Submit Your ApplicationPre-approval starts here! This tells you and your lender how much you can afford and saves time while looking for a home. Verify Income and AssetsProvide documents like pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and ID. Lenders check your…
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15 Aug 2025
By Mark Feder

The Pros and Cons of Mortgage Assumptions

Mortgage Tips
When purchasing a home, buyers typically assume a new mortgage loan. However, in some situations, a buyer may opt to assume the seller's existing mortgage. Known as a mortgage assumption, this process allows the buyer to take over the terms and payments of the seller's current loan. While mortgage assumptions can offer benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of mortgage assumptions can help you determine whether this option is right for you. What is a Mortgage Assumption?A mortgage assumption occurs when a buyer takes over the seller's existing mortgage, including the remaining balance, interest…
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