Ready to buy your first home? Your first step is to visit a mortgage lender to see how much house you can afford. But be prepared for the paperwork that comes with it. Here are the documents you'll be asked to provide as part of the loan application... (Read More)

Do you have a fire extinguisher? If you don't, it's time to add it to your shopping list. Every homeowner should have one on each floor or area of their home and know how to use it. Fire extinguishers are life savers. Make sure to purchase one... (Read More)

Yes, a bankruptcy can stay on your credit report for up to 10 years. But, that doesn't mean you have to wait that long to buy a home. In fact, you could be eligible to apply for a mortgage sooner thank you think. It all depends on what type... (Read More)

When it comes to putting a home on the market, are you ready to put your best foot forward? Many homeowners think they have to spend a fortune to make their properties more inviting to home buyers. Not true! In fact, two of the most important things... (Read More)

Do you know the difference between discount points and origination points? These are two important terms any home buyer should understand. Each type of point is equal to 1 percent of your total loan amount. For example, on a $200,000 loan, one... (Read More)

Mortgage rates are on the move. When is the best time to "lock" your mortgage rate? And for how long should your lock be effective? If you're buying or building a home, you'll have to answer both of these questions. Unfortunately, there's not a... (Read More)

The right moving company can help make your move to a new home a success. But the wrong one? It could lead to a moving day disaster. Here are some ways to tell if you are hiring a reputable moving company: —They come to your home, inventory... (Read More)

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)