Home shopping stirs up a whirlwind of emotions for most would-be homeowners. Exploring different neighborhoods, floor plans, and amenities provides an exhilarating emotional high, but questions about financing could leave some a bit tentative.
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Homeownership By the Numbers
While experts may weigh in on which way the housing market will go – the truth is no one knows for sure. As a potential buyer, focus on the things you can control, like having enough savings, a good credit score and enough income to cover your new mortgage payments.
Find the Best Home Loan for You
Are you planning on buying a larger home or downsizing this year? Before you start your search, take the time to understand the mortgage landscape. Getting the right loan can be as important as the home itself. The last thing you want to do is pay unnecessary fees or take on loan terms that might hurt your finances.
The Pros and Cons of Reverse Mortgages
No one plans to struggle financially during retirement. For some, without a full-time job and healthcare benefits, covering basic living expenses and increased medical costs can be challenging. An investment portfolio and limited government benefits may not be enough to make ends meet. 
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Get a Home Loan Without Dipping into Retirement Savings
If you’re planning to buy a home, you may be worried if you’ll have enough money saved for a down payment. You’ve probably heard that you can use retirement funds to help, but it’s important to know the restrictions, or you could be stuck paying penalties and taxes. And even though a home can be a great investment, taking out retirement funds early could hurt your long-term security.
Here’s what you should know before you make any financial moves. Continue reading
6 Tips to Get Financially Prepared for Life’s Emergencies
If disaster strikes, are you financially ready? Whether it’s a wildfire, earthquake or storm, make sure your home, car and property are adequately insured, and that you have emergency savings to draw on if you need to. Some things take longer than others to set up, so getting ready ahead of time is a smart strategy.
Home Equity Loan or HELOC?
Home values hit new heights in 2021. In October, the CoreLogic Home Price Index1 recorded the highest increase in its 45-year history of tracking annual home price growth in the U.S. This sharp uptick in market values gives homeowners an opportunity to access a sizeable amount of equity now, instead of waiting years to pay down mortgage principal balances.
Remodeling Trends That Increase A Home’s Value
Do you have home makeover ideas but worry about having the funds to cover your wish list? When determining the projects to tackle or forego, keep in mind that some enhancements can increase your home’s value, while others may not. Some home improvements may be worth the cost, even if you don’t recoup all the money you’ve invested in them. But if you plan on moving within a few years, you’ll want to proceed with caution before taking on a project that may cost you in the long run.
Here are some facts to help guide your decisions.
Your Home: Love It, List It or Refinance
When you first bought your house, it was the perfect fit for you and your family. Now your circumstances may have changed and you’re exploring what to do next. Here are some ideas that can help you improve your living situation and make the most of your money.
First-Time Homebuyer? Avoid These 4 Costly Mistakes
Buying your first home is a tremendous achievement, but the journey to get there can sometimes feel like a winding road rather than a straight path. That’s why it’s important to learn as much as you can about the process and lean on the expertise of your real estate agent to help you navigate any bumps along the way.
Here are four common mistakes first-time buyers make, and what you can do to steer clear of them.