13
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Saving for a Mortgage Down Payment? 4 Tips That Will Help You Get There Faster

For most people, the idea of saving more money each month is enough of a burden without having to think about investing in a home. A down payment, however, will require a lot more saving know-how and a lot more in liquid assets in order to be able to buy. If you're trying to find ways to save a bit more each month, here are some sure-fire tips for raising the extra funds. Re-consider Your Commute Outside of rent, there are few things that will cost as much money as owning your own vehicle, so instead of holding on to…
Read More
12
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Til’ Debt Do Us Part: How to Get a Mortgage If One Spouse Has A Poor Credit Score

A poor credit history is a reality for many people, but it can be particularly daunting when it comes to investing in a house. Fortunately, simply because you or yours have experienced bad credit doesn't mean that you should be penalized in the future. If your spouse has struggled with bad credit in the past but you're both preparing to move forward and invest in a home, here are some tips for getting it together financially. Face The Music Many people who have bad credit are too scared to take a look at their credit report and broach it honestly,…
Read More
06
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips,

Buying a Home With a Mortgage? Here’s What You Can Expect at Your Closing Meeting

If you've decided to invest and have finally found your ideal home, it's probably an exciting time for you and your family. But before the deal is sealed, there will be a closing meeting so that all of the loose ends can be tied up. If you want to be ready for closing and are curious what the final meeting will entail, here are a few things to be prepared for. The Last Walk Through The initial home inspection may have already occurred prior to your closing meeting, but a final walk through should also be granted in the event…
Read More
05
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Your Debt-To-Income Ratio and How It Affects Your Mortgage

When you're delving into the market in the hopes of finding your dream home, it's likely you'll come across the term debt-to-income ratio. This may not seem important at first, but your DTI is the key to determining the amount of money you can put into your home and just how much you should spend on a monthly basis. If you're curious about what this means for you, here's how to calculate it and how it can impact your mortgage. What's Your DTI Ratio? One of the best ways to determine whether or not a home is affordable for you…
Read More
04
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Understanding Mortgage Amortizations and Why Longer Periods Can Cost More

Buying a home is one of the largest investments you will make in your life, and that's why so many people have longer mortgage amortization periods to pay down the principal. While it may seem appealing to have a longer amortization period, here's why an extended loan term can end up costing you more and may be less financially beneficial when it comes right down to it. About Mortgage Amortization Generally speaking, a 25-year mortgage amortization period can be typical, but there are many loan periods that a homebuyer can choose for amortization. While a longer-loan period may seem enticing…
Read More
30
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips,

Trim Your Mortgage Closing Costs by Following This Easy 3 Step Guide

You may be so busy with determining your debt-to-income ratio and deciding what kind of offer to make that closing costs have gotten lost in the mix, but it's important to remember that finalizing your mortgage will cost you extra. While there's no way to get around paying money to solidify your mortgage, there are a few steps you can take in order to make it more economical for you. Shop Around For A Lender Many people go with the lender that is offered to them, but it's a good idea to do the research so you can find the…
Read More