Blog

10
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Worried about Your FICO Score? 4 Easy Strategies to Fix It Up

If you're worried about your bad credit, you'll want to do everything in your power to improve your rating as quickly as possible - especially if you have a major purchase coming up. Improving your credit rating can give you access to better interest rates on mortgages or even help you to get that job you're after. IMPORTANT! If you are currently involved in a home loan transaction, speak with your trusted mortgage lender before taking any action regarding your credit! So how can you boost your FICO score quickly and easily? Here's what you need to know. Get Your…
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09
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

It Isn’t Always a Clear Road after Pre-approval: 4 Reasons Why Your Mortgage May Be Denied

So you've been pre-approved for a mortgage – great! You've taken the first step toward becoming a homeowner. But before you start picking out china patterns, you'll want to keep in mind that a pre-approval isn't the same thing as a mortgage agreement. There's still no guarantee that you'll actually get a mortgage. But why would a lender deny a mortgage after pre-approving a borrower? Here's what you need to know. Sudden Changes In Income Or Employment History A number of mortgages will require borrowers to have consistent employment for a certain length of time. If you apply for an…
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08
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

The Pros and Cons of A Fixed Rate Second Mortgage vs. Opening a Home Equity Line of Credit

When it comes to a mortgage and the financial stability of your home, there's no such thing as too much you can know in the case of keeping your biggest investment safe. If you're looking at paying off debt and are considering using the equity in your home, here are a few things you'll need to know about refinancing your mortgage and home equity lines of credit. Fixed Second Mortgage vs. HELOC Refinancing your mortgage to access equity (without changing the existing first mortgage)comes in two basic flavors: a fixed rate mortgage or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC).…
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07
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 7, 2016

Week in Review Last week's scheduled economic news included reports on pending home sales, construction spending and several jobs related readings including ADP Payrolls, the government's Non-Farm Payrolls and the national unemployment rate. Mortgage Rates, Weekly Unemployment Claims Rise Mortgage rates rose across the board according to Freddie Mac's weekly report. The average rate for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage rose two basis points to 3.64 percent; the average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage rose by one basis point to 2.94 percent and the average rate for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage rose five basis points to 2.84…
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04
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Around The Home, ,

Dream Renovations: Upgrading Your Bathroom from ‘Regular’ to ‘In-Home Spa’

There are times you might long for the relaxed leisure of the spa experience, but with the cost of a manicure it's not always a pleasure one can afford. If your current bathroom set-up isn't the optimal place for rest and relaxation, here are some cues for how you can turn it from a bit of a problem to a consummate pleasure. Install A Vintage Vanity The look of slick steel and porcelain can certainly be classy, but if you're looking for an upscale room you'll love to spend time in, consider a vintage dresser that you can turn into…
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03
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

The FHA Mortgage Minimum Credit Score Has Been Reduced. Here’s What You Need to Know…

Credit is of considerable concern when it comes to buying a home, but if you're on the market for a new place in the next few months there may be some timely news that applies to you. If you haven't heard about the changes to the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) credit score minimum, here's some information on the recent reduction and how it may impact your home purchase. Information On The FHA Started in 1934, the FHA is the organization responsible for insuring the loans that are available to homebuyers in the United States. These loans are not provided directly…
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