22 Jan 2025
By Mark Feder

How Can You Prepare Your Finances for a Mortgage?

Home Mortgage Tips
Dreaming of owning a home? Preparing your finances for a mortgage is key to making that dream a reality. Here’s how to get started: 1. Create a Budget Understanding how much you can afford is the first step. Review your monthly expenses and set a target mortgage payment that aligns with your budget. For example, if you’re comfortable paying $1,200 in rent, aim for a mortgage payment around that amount. 2. Save for a Down Payment Start building your savings for the down payment. If you’re buying a $300,000 home and plan to put down 5% ($15,000), saving $500 per…
Read More
15 Jan 2025
By Mark Feder

Understanding Loan Estimates for Smarter Home Financing

Home Mortgage Tips
When you begin the exciting journey toward homeownership, understanding the financial aspects is vital. A key document in this process is the Loan Estimate. Provided by lenders when you apply for a mortgage, the Loan Estimate is your guide to deciphering the terms of your loan. Learning how to read and analyze this document is a significant step in making informed decisions about your home financing. What is a Loan Estimate? A Loan Estimate is a standardized, three-page document that breaks down the essential details of your loan offer. This document was designed to help borrowers easily compare offers from…
Read More
10 Dec 2024
By Mark Feder

Will Refinancing Impact Your Credit?

Credit Scoring
Refinancing a mortgage can provide significant financial benefits, such as lowering your interest rate or accessing home equity. However, it’s important to understand how the process may temporarily affect your credit score. Here’s an in-depth look at the potential short- and long-term effects of refinancing on your credit, along with tips for minimizing any negative impacts. What Does It Mean to Refinance a Mortgage? When you refinance, you replace your existing mortgage with a new loan. Homeowners refinance for a variety of reasons, including: Lowering their interest rate Changing the loan term (e.g., from 30 to 15 years or vice…
Read More
03 Dec 2024
By Mark Feder

Steps to Prepare for Future Home Financing and Year-End Financial Checklist

Home Buyer Tips
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take a step back and review your financial health, especially if you plan to purchase a home next year. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, proper preparation can make all the difference when securing a mortgage with favorable terms. Here's a comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re financially ready for home financing in the year ahead. 1. Review Your Credit Score Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders will consider when deciding whether to approve your mortgage application and what interest rate…
Read More