04
May
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Refinancing This Spring? How to Choose Between Variable and Fixed Interest Rates

From choosing a real estate agent to finding the right home, the process of getting a mortgage is rife with many different choices. If you're investing down the road, it's likely that you've heard about variable and fixed interest rates and are wondering about the differences between the two and how they can benefit you. While what will work best for you depends on your financial flexibility and market knowledge, here are some basics that will help you make a decision. The Details on Fixed Rates For many homeowners new to the market, the stability of a fixed rate is…
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02
May
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Honesty Is the Best Policy: Why You Need to Be Truthful on Your Mortgage Application

There are few things better than finding your dream home and being able to afford it, but simply because you've found the perfect place doesn't mean you should stretch the truth. It might seem tempting to polish your mortgage application a little in the hopes of making a better impression, but here are a few reasons why you should stick to the truth when signing off on your home. Your Credit History Tells All It can be tempting to bump up your salary or make some hefty deposits into your savings account. However, lenders will be taking a look at…
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26
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

What Fees or Costs Are Involved With a Reverse Mortgage? Let’s Take a Look

As a means of avoiding monthly mortgage payments, a reverse mortgage is a way for homeowners to tap into their equity in order to defer the payments on their home. While this can be a beneficial option for those who are older than 65, it's important to be aware that - like any mortgage product - there are a number of associated fees. If a reverse mortgage is something you're considering in the future, here are some of the costs you'll be looking at. Mortgage Insurance Premiums In order to secure your reverse mortgage, you will be required to pay…
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21
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Did You Know? How Accelerating Your Mortgage Payments Can Help Your Credit Score

The tough part might be over after your mortgage has been approved, but it's still important to keep on top of your monthly payments and maintain a good credit score for your financial future. If you're currently wondering how increasing your mortgage payments can help your credit outlook, here are some things to consider. Change Your Payment Schedule Most people opt for a monthly mortgage payment, which can certainly stretch the budget but is still something that can be maintained consistently. However, what many homeowners don't realize is that more consistent payments, like a bi-weekly or even weekly payment, can…
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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…
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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,…
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