22
Nov
By Adrian Willanger
Home Tips, ,

Why Getting Preapproved Before Your House Hunt Is Crucial

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make, and you want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible. Whether you’re just starting to browse homes or are ready to put in an offer, one of the most important steps you can take is getting preapproved for a mortgage. Not only does it streamline the home-buying process, but it also puts you in the best position to make a successful offer. Here’s why getting preapproved now, before you start your house hunt, can make all the difference. What Does It Mean to Be Preapproved? Preapproval…
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26
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Home Buyer Tips, ,

What Does Contingent Mean on a House Sale

In the context of a house sale, "contingent" typically means that the sale of the house is dependent on certain conditions being met. These conditions could include things like the buyer securing financing, the completion of a home inspection, or the sale of the buyer's current home. For example, if a buyer makes an offer on a house and the offer is accepted by the seller, the sale may be contingent on the buyer obtaining financing within a specified period of time. If the buyer is unable to obtain financing, the sale may fall through. Another common contingency is a…
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20
Sep
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Looking to Pay Back Your Mortgage Faster? Three Reasons to Consider Switching to Bi-weekly Payments

While there are differing schools of thought when it comes to whether or not a person should pay off a mortgage before the loan term ends, there may be some benefits to making payments on a bi-weekly basis as opposed to monthly basis. What are some of the reasons why it may be beneficial to make two payments a month instead of one? Here are three reasons why you should ditch the monthly fees and make payments once every two weeks. You'll Make An Extra Payment Per Year If you're looking to pay off your mortgage ahead of schedule, making…
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16
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Tips, ,

Avoiding Becoming House Poor: A Path to Financial Security and Balance

As the housing market continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly crucial for aspiring homeowners to tread carefully and avoid falling into the trap of being house poor. The dream of owning a home should not come at the expense of financial stability and overall well-being. Here are some essential tips to steer clear of this precarious situation: Setting a Sensible Budget: Before even considering purchasing a house, it's imperative to create a comprehensive budget that includes all your income, expenses, and financial goals. Be honest with yourself about what you can afford, considering not only the mortgage but also property…
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26
Jul
By Jim Hasek
Selling Your Home, ,

Selling a House “As-Is”: Pros, Cons, and Considerations

When it comes to selling a house, homeowners have different options available to them. One approach that some sellers consider is selling their house "as-is." This means selling the property in its current condition without making any repairs or renovations. Pros of Selling a House "As-Is" Convenience: One of the primary advantages of selling a house as-is is the convenience it offers. By selling the property in its current condition, you can avoid the time, effort, and cost associated with repairs and renovations. Cost Savings: Selling a house as-is can potentially save you money. When you sell a property in…
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13
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Tips, ,

How to Run a Quick Financial Health Check Before You Apply for a Mortgage

Are you planning on using a mortgage to help cover the cost of a new home? If so, you will want to prepare your finances and figure out how you will manage all those wallet-draining monthly expenses. Let's take a look at how to run a quick financial health check to ensure you are ready to apply for a mortgage. Update (Or Start) Your Monthly Budget First, it is essential to get the basics out of the way. If you haven't already, it's time to start a monthly budget to keep track of your income and expenses. Once you have…
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