What is a good debt-to-income ratio for a mortgage? If you’re taking the plunge and diving into homeownership, you may wonder what factors mortgage companies use to determine how much you’ll be able to afford. Besides your credit score and job stability, a debt-to-income ratio (DTI) of 36% or less is ideal and a major [...]

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Do lenders charge to run your credit report? Yes, here’s why. When you apply for a mortgage, your lender will check your credit to assess your financial history and determine loan eligibility. But does it cost lenders to pull credit reports? The short answer: Yes, many lenders charge a fee to run your credit report, [...]

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Your guide to buying a beach home: pros, cons and tips Owning a beach home sounds like the ultimate dream—waking up to the sound of waves, stepping onto your balcony with a fresh cup of coffee, and enjoying breathtaking ocean views. But is buying a vacation home a smart financial move? It depends on your [...]

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6 ways family members can help you get a mortgage Can you borrow money to buy a house? Absolutely. Many mortgage lenders accept multiple forms of assistance to finance your purchase. For first-time buyers, this might include using gift funds for a down payment, which can reduce upfront costs. Some borrowers may also consider personal [...]

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Is it still a good time to buy a house? Whether it's a good time to buy a house depends on your circumstances and financial readiness. Consider your job security, down payment savings, credit score and long-term goals. Current market conditions, like interest rates and housing prices in your area, also play a role. To [...]

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Conventional versus FHA loans—find out the difference When comparing an FHA loan vs. a Conventional loan: which is better? FHA loans are designed for homebuyers with lower credit scores and smaller down payments, requiring monthly mortgage insurance. Conventional loans have a higher credit score requirement and may allow you to avoid mortgage insurance with a [...]

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6 obstacles to homeownership—and how to overcome them Americans still want to buy a house, but over three-fourths say they’ve encountered obstacles.* A higher cost of living, saving for a down payment, insufficient income and poor credit are a few of these hurdles. If you feel like buying a home is out of reach, down [...]

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Should you put your home in a trust? Why put your home in a trust? Placing your home in a trust can make things easier for your loved ones if you pass away. When your home is in a trust, it transfers directly to your chosen beneficiaries without going through probate. This can save time [...]

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