Filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy can be a challenging experience, but it doesn't mean the end of your dreams of homeownership. While the path to securing a mortgage after Chapter 13 might seem daunting, with careful planning and dedication, it's entirely possible. Here’s how you can prepare yourself for a successful loan application and rebuild your dream home. Understanding Chapter 13 Bankruptcy First and foremost, it's essential to understand what Chapter 13 bankruptcy entails. Unlike Chapter 7, which involves liquidating assets, Chapter 13 allows you to create a repayment plan to pay off your debts over three to five years. This plan helps you manage your debts and can eventually … [Continue Reading...]
With so little in the way of data releases following the previous week's FOMC Rate Decision, we’re left with a small release schedule with Consumer Credit and U.S. Trade Deficit rounding up the reports. While relatively light indicators of the current health of the economy, they are still useful for determining more impactful trends in the future. Next week, the inflation data reports with the CPI and PPI are the ones to look out for. This time, these are the ones that will largely determine whether we see rate cuts this year, and lending partners have already been lowering rates in anticipation. U.S. Trade DeficitThe trade deficit fell by 2.5% in June and receded from a 19-month high, … [Continue Reading...]
Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, and traditional mortgages aren't the only route to achieving this dream. For many homebuyers, especially those who may face challenges with conventional financing, exploring alternative financing options can be a game-changer. We will discuss three creative financing options: rent-to-own, lease-purchase agreements, and shared equity arrangements. Rent-to-Own: Bridging the Gap to Homeownership First and foremost, let's discuss rent-to-own arrangements. This option allows potential buyers to rent a home to purchase it after a set period. During the rental phase, a portion of the monthly rent may go toward the future purchase price. This method is … [Continue Reading...]
As a homeowner, the thought of foreclosure can be daunting. Understanding what foreclosure is and how to prevent it can provide peace of mind and safeguard your investment. What is Foreclosure? Foreclosure is a legal process where a lender attempts to recover the balance of a loan from a borrower who has stopped making payments. The lender forces the sale of the asset used as collateral for the loan—in this case, your home. How Does Foreclosure Work? The foreclosure process typically begins after several missed mortgage payments. First, the lender issues a notice of default, giving you a certain period to catch up on payments. If the default isn't resolved, the lender can proceed with … [Continue Reading...]
Buying a fixer-upper can be a strategic way to acquire a home below market value while customizing it to fit your needs. However, the financing process for these properties requires a bit of extra insight. As a loan officer, I’m here to guide you through the key mortgage considerations for purchasing a fixer-upper and help you secure the right financing to make your renovation dreams a reality. Explore Specialized Loan Options When it comes to financing a fixer-upper, traditional mortgages often fall short. Here are a few specialized loan options designed to address the unique needs of these properties: FHA 203(k) LoansThe Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers the 203(k) loan … [Continue Reading...]
When you're looking to buy a home, one of the most important numbers you need to know is your FICO score. This three-digit number represents your creditworthiness and plays a crucial role in determining the terms of your home loan. Let's discuss what a FICO score is, how it's calculated, and why it matters for your home-buying journey. What is a FICO Score? A FICO score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, ranging from 300 to 850. It is calculated based on your credit report, which includes your payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and types of credit used. Essentially, it gives lenders an idea of how likely you are to repay borrowed money. … [Continue Reading...]
