Higher education can be one of the most significant financial investments you'll make, second only to purchasing a home. While federal loans are a common method for covering college costs, using your home’s equity is another option to consider. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of tapping into your home equity to pay for college. The Financial Cost of College Just as most buyers need a mortgage to finance a home, many families rely on loans to fund college expenses. The average net price of college, which accounts for tuition, room, and board after financial aid, can be significant. According to the College Board, during the 2019-2020 school … [Continue Reading...]
The VA loan program offers exceptional benefits to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, including no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). But what about buying land? While the rules around using a VA loan for land can be more complex, there are still ways to make it work. Here's a breakdown of your options if you're looking to buy land using a VA loan. Understanding VA Loans VA loans are specifically designed for veterans and service members looking to buy, build, repair, or adapt a home for personal occupancy. These loans come with several advantages over conventional loans: No Down Payment: VA loans often … [Continue Reading...]
Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, and first-time homebuyer programs make the process easier for many stepping into homeownership. But what if you’ve owned a home before or are currently a homeowner? Can you qualify as a first-time homebuyer again? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Under certain conditions, you may be eligible for these programs more than once. Here's a closer look at how it works, the eligibility criteria, and how to make the most of these opportunities. Who Qualifies as a First-Time Homebuyer? The term “first-time homebuyer” doesn’t always mean it’s your first-ever purchase. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban … [Continue Reading...]
When securing a mortgage, buyers aim to lock in the best possible interest rate. But what if interest rates fall after you’ve closed on your loan? Are you stuck with your current rate? The good news is that you may have options, whether your loan is brand-new or you’ve been paying it off for a while. Here are three ways to take advantage of lower rates. 1. Explore a Float Down Option Many borrowers choose fixed-rate loans for stability—they protect you from rising rates. However, if rates drop, your fixed rate stays the same. This is where a float down option can help. Some lenders offer this as a one-time opportunity to reduce your interest rate without refinancing. While … [Continue Reading...]
With the holiday of the previous week in addition to an extremely light release week, only the Consumer Sentiment report is weighing in on the lending markets. With both the inflation reports showing inflation cooling off, there is still some optimism about where the Federal Reserve will take things. This optimism is only cooled by the uncertainty the new presidency will bring. Many markets have responded in kind, with lending partners showing a trend of increasing rates and other markets preparing for uncertainty. Within the next few months, we will see how the new administration intends to handle monetary policy. This will have a greater impact than the Federal Reserve on the direction … [Continue Reading...]
Refinancing your mortgage can be a strategic financial decision, enabling you to save money, access home equity, or adjust your loan terms to better suit your current financial situation. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the process and determine if refinancing is the right move for you. What is Refinancing? Refinancing involves replacing your existing mortgage with a new one, often with the goal of: Securing a lower interest rate. Adjusting the loan term, either shortening or extending it. Switching from an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate loan for more predictable payments. Accessing home equity for major expenses like renovations, education, or … [Continue Reading...]
