Ever wonder which things can affect your credit score the most when you're applying for a mortgage loan? Here are some of the top factors that can dramatically lower anyone's score: You're 30 days late (or more) paying a bill. You could see a... (Read More)

Congratulations! You are using your VA loan benefit to buy a home. Once you are under contract on a home, the lender will tell you that the home needs to be appraised. People usually have many questions about appraisals. The following are some of... (Read More)

Active duty and retired military members have a great benefit when it comes to purchasing a home. They can do it with NO MONEY DOWN. Being a veteran isn't the only requirement when it comes to getting a VA loan, though. The Department of Veterans... (Read More)

Think you need a huge down payment in order to buy a home? Then you're in for some good news. The "need" for big down payments is a myth in today's lending environment. Truth is, programs offered by three federal agencies are helping borrowers... (Read More)

Fall is here! That means it's time for some autumn home maintenance. As a homeowner, there is a lot you can do to reduce the chance of a costly wintertime home repair disaster, make your home safer and save a bit of money. Here are some of the most... (Read More)

When buying a home, you have the option of selecting a fixed-rate home loan or one with an adjustable rate. ARMs are attractive to some home buyers today because the introductory rates — and monthly payments — often are lower than with... (Read More)

Your credit score is an important number that can affect the interest rate you can get for a mortgage and even whether you can qualify for certain types of home loans. It's not the same as your credit report. Think of your credit score as a... (Read More)

When purchasing a home, your mortgage pre-approval is based on your current financial situation. That's why once you are pre-approved, you should avoid making big changes to your finances. Here are several things you'll want to avoid doing while... (Read More)

Whether you're buying or selling a home, you're likely to encounter a host of mortgage terms and acronyms along the way. Find them a bit confusing? You're not alone! Real estate really has a language of its own. You'll feel a lot better on closing... (Read More)

Whether you're buying or refinancing, you have a number of choices. One of those is your loan term. While the overwhelming majority of home buyers and home owners elect to go with the 30-year mortgage, you may be wondering if a 15-year home loan... (Read More)