16
Aug
By Jim Hasek
Mortgage Tips

Bi-weekly or Monthly Mortgage Payments – Which is better?

When you apply for a new mortgage, your lender may ask if you want to set up monthly payments or bi-weekly payments. At one time, monthly payments were common, but bi-weekly payments are increasing in popularity. This is because they break a large expense up into two smaller and seemingly more manageable payments. In addition, you can also make what equates to a full extra payment on the mortgage each year with a bi-weekly payment structure. Before you decide which is best for you, consider a few factors. Your Personal Budget Many people may believe that if they get paid…
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10
Jun
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

The Pros and Cons of Mortgage Rate Locks

If you're just jumping into the game of home purchasing, you are likely considering all of your loan options and may even have heard the term mortgage rate lock. For those who don't like to gamble, a mortgage rate lock can offer a bit of reassurance, but there are also some downsides to this type of protection. Before signing off on this, here are the details on rate locks so you can make an informed decision. What Is A Rate Lock? For many people who are buying a home in such a tumultuous market, the idea of interest rates can…
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15
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

How to Determine the Right Mortgage for You: The Pros and Cons of Each Type

Finding the right mortgage can be a struggle. There's a wide array of mortgage products on the market, and you don't always need to get a mortgage through your bank – and with so many options, it's hard to know which one is your best bet. Your ideal mortgage will depend on your own individual financial situation, but when you understand how different kinds of mortgages work, it's easier to choose the right one. Here's what you need to know about mortgage types. Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Home Financing At A Guaranteed Rate A fixed-rate mortgage is exactly what it sounds like:…
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12
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Key Questions to Ask Yourself Before Deciding to Refinance Your Mortgage

If you're looking to reduce your interest payments or get more favorable loan terms, there are lots of ways you can change your mortgage. But one of the most effective ways to take advantage of low interest rates is with a mortgage refinance. That said, refinancing typically comes with a variety of costs and may not be a good solution or all homeowners. So how can you tell whether it's a good idea to refinance your home? Here are three questions you need to ask yourself if you want to find out. How Much Equity Do I Have? If you…
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05
Apr
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Budgeting for a New Home?: 3 Unlikely Costs to Consider in Your Overall Budget

If you're planning to buy a new home in the near future, you're probably working hard to prepare a budget and determine how much you can afford before you start viewing homes. While it's good to have an idea of what you can pay for a new house, many buyers routinely miss several key home buying costs that can later cause a variety of problems. Before you start looking for your new home, make sure you add these three commonly forgotten costs to your budget. Title Insurance: Critical Protection Against Title Claims Title insurance is something that most buyers forget…
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31
Mar
By Jim Hasek
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Rookie Mistakes: Don’t Make These 4 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes

Buying your first home is exciting. Many young people view homeownership as the definitive mark of adulthood, the final milestone on a decades-long journey. And while becoming a homeowner is cause for celebration, you'll want to ensure you keep your enthusiasm in check just a little while longer. Keep a level head and you'll easily avoid these common mistakes first-time buyers make. Don't View Your Home As An Investment First-time buyers commonly think that they can invest everything they've saved into a home, fix it up, and then sell it for a large profit in a few years. However, a…
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