You Ask, We Answer: How Do I Know If It’s a Good Idea to Refinance My Mortgage?

Are you interested in paying less per month on your mortgage? Or perhaps you would prefer if your mortgage was paid off a couple of months – or years – faster? If you are a homeowner with a mortgage, one option that is open to you is refinancing. In today's post, we will explore the topic of mortgage refinancing and how to know if it is a good idea. How Does Refinancing Work? In short, refinancing is a process in which pay off your existing mortgage and borrow a new mortgage under a different set of terms. In most cases,…
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The Pros and Cons of a Large Down Payment When Buying a Home

If you are in the market for a new home, one of the considerations you will need to make is how much to invest in your down payment. Let's take a quick look at some of the pros and cons of making a large down payment when buying your next home. A Large Down Payment Has Its Benefits If you have the funds available, you may find a bit of an advantage in a large down payment. The following are a few potential benefits that you may realize. You Can Afford More 'House' - if you are aiming for a…
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Make 2018 the Year You Escape the ‘Rental Trap’ by Buying Your Own Home

Are you growing tired of paying rent each month and not building your net worth? Being stuck in the 'rental trap' isn't much fun, but if you are determined, you can break out. Let's explore some of the steps that you can take to make 2018 the year that you become a homeowner. Rent Money Is Lost Money First – why homeownership? As you may already understand, money spent on rent is 'lost' money. Each month you pay your rent, but you do not build any equity, own any property or get any other benefits in return. When you own…
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Graduating With Student Loan Debt and Worried About Your Mortgage Prospects? You’re Not Alone

Did you recently graduate from college or university? If so, you may still be dealing with a financial hangover in the form of student loan debt. The vast majority of today's students have to borrow to invest in their education, which can affect financial plans once school is finished. In today's post, we will explore buying a home with a mortgage when still dealing with outstanding student loan debt. Your Situation Is Common, But Unique To You First, try to keep in mind that you are not alone. Many former students are moving on with life, working hard to build…
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Four Pieces of Mortgage ‘Advice’ That You Should Take With the Proverbial Grain of Salt

Are you in the market for a new home? If you have been talking to friends and family or researching online, you have likely come across quite a bit of mortgage-related advice. As with anything, there is low-quality advice out there which is essential to avoid. In today's blog post we will share four pieces of mortgage-related advice that you should take with the proverbial 'grain of salt.' #1: Only Get A Mortgage From Your Bank Have you heard that you should only get a mortgage from the major bank that you use regularly? Many people believe that working with…
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3 Ways That a Reverse Mortgage Can Transform Your Retirement

Are you a retired individual looking for ways to increase your financial security? If so, you may have heard of a home equity conversion mortgage, more commonly known as a reverse mortgage. Used correctly, this is one of the most effective financial products for retirees who own their home. Let's explore three ways that a reverse mortgage can help to transform a dull retirement into one filled with excitement. It's All About Flexibility The primary benefit that one receives with a reverse mortgage is financial flexibility. It is an excellent way to tap into the equity that has built up…
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