Start with the Basics: How to Create a Budget to Determine How Much Mortgage You Can Afford

A mortgage is typically one of the biggest monthly payments and financial responsibilities that a person is responsible for. Mortgage payments usually impact the person's budget significantly for several decades or longer. While there are mortgage calculators online that can be used to estimate an affordable mortgage payment, it is important to start with a basic budget. A budget will allow you to more accurately determine how large of a mortgage payment is truly affordable before applying for a new mortgage. List Income From All Sources The first step to take to prepare a budget is to list all sources…
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Four Surefire Ways to Ensure That You Get the Best Possible Deal on Your Mortgage

Taking time to set up your home mortgage is one of the best steps that you can take to promote financial health and security. The best home mortgage is one with an affordable payment, that does not empty your bank accounts of necessary financial reserves and that will help you to establish equity at a fast pace. If you want to ensure that you get the best deal on your mortgage focus on these tips. Consider the Loan Term Carefully The most common loan term options are a 15, 20 and 30 year term. There will be a slight interest…
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The Pros and Cons of Using Spare Funds to Pay Your Mortgage Down Faster

A home mortgage payment can be a large or even the largest expense in a person's budget, and not having this payment any longer can be a life changing experience. Because of this, you may be dreaming about the day when you no longer have to make this payment. Some people may even actively make extra payments to their mortgage in order to pay the outstanding balance off more quickly. These may be funds from an IRS tax refund, cash received from the holidays or a birthday or some other windfall. Before you make the decision about whether to use…
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Which is Better: Bi-weekly or Monthly Mortgage Payments? Let’s Take a Look

When you apply for a new mortgage, your lender may ask if you want to set up monthly payments or bi-weekly payments. At one time, monthly payments were common, but bi-weekly payments are increasing in popularity. This is because they break a large expense up into two smaller and seemingly more manageable payments. In addition, you can also make what equates to a full extra payment on the mortgage each year with a bi-weekly payment structure. Before you decide which is best for you, consider a few factors. Your Personal Budget Many people may believe that if they get paid…
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