Owning a home provides both personal and financial advantages. Read this to understand how home ownership could enhance your financial situation. There are good reasons not to wait to buy a home.

Home Purchase Basics

Home Purchase Questions

We’ve got the answers to any and every refinancing or mortgage question. Read this section first to get a short course on all the basics of mortgages and home refinancing, along with a good dose of market savvy to help you find the very best deal.

Why Do Rates Fluctuate?

Ever wondered why mortgage interest rates change continuously? Why they are up some times and down others? Don’t think the Fed controls everything. We explain all the factors that affect mortgage rates, to help you find your way to the lowest possible rate.

How to Determine the Value of Your Home

To get the best valuation for your home, you’ll need to know which factors determine value. You’ll also need to know where to go to get an official valuation, if necessary. It’s all explained here.

How Credit Ratings Affect Refinancing

Arm yourself with information about how lenders view your credit rating. Find out what type of home loan programs will be made available to you depending on your credit rating.

Types of Mortgage Loans

Read here for an overall explanation of the types of loan programs you should consider. The following articles will explain the types in detail, and compare their advantages.

Compare Fixed-rate and Adjustable-rate Mortgages

You’ve heard the hype. Now get the truth. Here we summarize and compare these two mortgage types so that you’ll have all the information you need to make an educated – and strategic – choice when you refinance.

Interest-only Loan

If your income fluctuates, or you’re strapped for cash right now, an interest-only loan could facilitate your home ownership plans without overstressing your income, or yourself. Read our explanation to find out if this option would work for you.

What are FHA Loans?

You’ve heard the term. You know it has something to do with the government. Here are all the facts so you’ll understand exactly what an FHA loan is. You’ll find out whether you’re eligible, and whether or not it’s a good idea for you.

Mortgage Checklists and Other Helpful Information

An Essential Mortgage Application Checklist

Applying for a mortgage can be a paperwork nightmare. You’ll need copies of your driver’s license, bank statements, W-2 forms and much much more. Use this checklist to take the stress out and help you easily assemble everything you’ll need.

What is the Good Faith Estimate (GFE)?

Never heard of it? Better find out quick! The Good Faith Estimate (GFE) is the most important means of comparing lenders. We explain here what it is and how it works to help you choose the best lender and compare loan details.

Closing Costs Made Easy

A closing is not a picnic. But if you’re prepared, it can be relatively painless. Here we go line-by-line explaining every aspect of the forms you’ll have to review and sign off on. And you’ll understand every element of the all the charges that make up closing costs.

Explanations of Important Terms