21
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

FHA Down Payment Requirements: Homeownership Without A Big Savings Account

Buying a home for the first time can be a challenge. One of the tools created to help people buy a home for the first time comes in the form of FHA loans. There were loans that were supported by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). They can require a down payment that is as low as 3.5 percent.  FHA loans are significantly different from traditional mortgage loans. Those who have purchased a house before have likely heard that the average down payment is closer to 20 percent of the value. This can make it hard for someone to buy a…
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19
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

Big Home Repairs That Can Sink A Budget Quickly

For most individuals and families, their home is the most expensive investment they will ever purchase. Therefore, it is important for everyone to take care of their home. Routine maintenance can prevent costly repairs from arising down the road. It is important for homeowners to make sure they budget for home maintenance and repair costs. Even with a meticulous repair schedule, it is still possible that a major repair might be required. There are a few home repairs that are more expensive than others. Damage To The Foundation Of The Home One of the most expensive home repairs that might…
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11
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

Considering A Reverse Mortgage? Understand These Important Points First

There are many individuals who end up on a fixed income once they reach a certain age; however, their expenses aren’t always fixed. Sometimes, there is a large medical expense. In other cases, someone might need money for a new car or a home repair. In the event that someone needs cash quickly, one option is called a reverse mortgage. Those who have equity built up in their home can draw upon this to help with unexpected expenses. This is a quick source of cash that many people overlook. At the same time, it is important to think about the…
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06
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

Investment Property Down Payments: How Much Will You Need?

Investing in real estate is a great way for someone to diversify his or her assets; however, there is a common hurdle that almost all real estate investors face. This comes in the form of a down payment.  It can be a challenge for someone to come up with enough cash to fund the down payment on a home or piece of land, let alone multiple properties. At the same time, how big of a down payment does someone really need? There are a few factors that someone is going to need to consider. The Conventional Mortgage There are plenty…
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05
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

Green Energy Tax Credits For Home Improvement & Energy Efficiency

Many individuals and families are looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. Running the heater during the winter and the air conditioner during the summer can have significant impacts on someone's energy consumption and costs. It should come as no surprise that many people are trying to reduce their HVAC usage to save money; however, there is a better way. Individuals and families can permanently reduce their fossil fuel usage and carbon footprint by investing in home improvements. Better yet, local, state, and even the federal government wants everyone's home to be more environmentally conscious, or "green." Many utility companies…
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04
Feb
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage, ,

4 Things To Do Before Co-Signing A Mortgage For Your Child

It can be hard to convince a lender that a young person is ready to buy a house. There may not be a long credit history, a lack of assets might make it hard to fund a down payment, and the buyer's age can cause banks to hesitate. One of the ways for parents to help with this process is to co-sign on the mortgage. Before doing this, there are a few important steps to keep in mind. Look At Your Own Qualifications Remember that co-signers are going to go through the same vetting process as the primary borrower. This…
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