How to Know If You Are a Good Candidate for a Mortgage Loan
For a first-time buyer, the thought of applying for a mortgage loan can be daunting. Will you qualify? What sort of rate will you get? What type of mortgage should you apply for? Are you even a good candidate in the first place? The questions are endless. But the truth is there are no perfect…
7 Tips For Realtors Juggling Peak Season Demand
The real estate market is cyclical, with peak seasons typically occurring during the spring and summer months. Research shows that properties that are sold from mid-March to July typically sell faster and for a higher price compared to the average listing throughout the year. While this time can be lucrative for realtors, it can also…
Signs It May Be Time to Refinance
If you’re like most Americans, your home is your biggest asset. It’s also probably the biggest loan you’ve ever taken out. Mortgage terms typically last for 30 years, which means you’ll likely be paying on your home long after the kids are out of the house, and you’ve retired from your job. But just because…
The Pros and Cons of Adding a Co-signer to Your Mortgage Application
If you’re struggling to qualify for a mortgage loan due to factors such as debt, spotty employment history, or poor credit, you might consider bringing in a co-signer to help. However, it’s important to understand the potential benefits and risks involved. On the plus side, a co-signer can increase your chances of qualifying for a…
Cold Calling Tips for Real Estate Agents
Cold calling is a polarizing activity. On the one hand, when done correctly, it can be a helpful lead generation tool for real estate agents. On the other, most people would rather do just about anything than spend time calling people they don’t know. To that end, we’ve brought you four cold calling tips to…
USDA Loans: An Affordable Loan Option
If you’re in the market for a new home and are looking for an affordable loan option, you may want to consider a USDA loan. USDA loans are a type of mortgage loan backed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). These loans are designed to help rural and suburban homebuyers who meet certain…
What Does It Mean to “Have Equity” in Your Home?
If you’re a homeowner, then you’ve probably heard of home equity before — at least in some form or fashion. Whether your neighbor recently did a cash-out refinance or you’ve been told you can “take money out of your house” for renovations or expenses, it all comes down to home equity — and how much…
REALTORS®: Understanding Millennial Home Buying Trends
There is no denying that the real estate landscape has changed in the past few years. One of the biggest driving forces behind these changes is the millennial homebuyer. In fact, according to the latest data from the National Association of REALTORS®, younger millennials make up a whopping 70% of all first-time homebuyers nationally while 46% of…
Boost Your Home’s Value with a Cash Out Refinance Loan and These Upgrades
If you are looking to boost the value of your home, you may want to consider a cash out refinance loan. Here’s why. There are several upgrades you can make to your home that will increase its value. Some of the best upgrades you can make include adding a new bathroom, remodeling your kitchen, and…
How to Make Buying a Home Less Stressful
Home buying can be one of the most stressful processes you’ll ever go through. You’re on a time crunch, you have thousands of dollars on the line, and you’re dealing with dozens of vendors, reams of paperwork, and, of course, just the struggles of everyday living. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate stress and make…