What makes a buyer's market? If you’re looking to buy a home, you may be wondering when to jump in. Depending on where in the country you’re shopping, a buyer’s market could be a great time to make your move, regardless of interest rates. A buyer’s market is defined by a surplus in inventory compared [...]

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What are mortgage discount points? A guide to saving on your rate If you're looking to buy a home right now, you probably know that even a small change in your mortgage rate can make a big difference. That’s where tools like discount points come in. As one-time optional fees on your loan, [...]

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How do I buy an investment property? Whether you’re looking to generate passive income or diversify your investment portfolio, an investment home can be a lucrative purchase, albeit one with the higher barrier to entry compared to other investments, including primary homes. That’s because mortgages on investment properties have stricter requirements. Even though investment properties [...]

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Non-QM loans: a flexible path to homeownership Non-QM mortgages are flexible loan options designed for people who don’t fit the standard income or credit mold–and it may be the key that finally gets you into a home. Maybe you’re self-employed and write off a lot of business expenses. Maybe you freelance, drive for Uber, or [...]

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How do I price my home for sale? If you want to sell your home sooner rather than later, it’s important to price your home effectively. Too high of a price may discourage buyers and cause your home to stall on the market, while too low of a price could burn any potential profits. To [...]

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Can energy-efficient homes qualify for special mortgages? In addition to being better for the environment and your wallet, energy-efficient homes can get you unique and cost-effective home loan financing. Whether you’re purchasing a home to make it more eco-friendly or refinancing with energy upgrades, energy-efficient mortgages (EEMs) allow buyers to qualify for special loans that [...]

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Do I have to pay mortgage insurance if I put down less than 20%? In most cases, mortgage insurance is a requirement when a homebuyer’s down payment is less than 20 percent. Some loans don’t require it, and some down payment assistance programs can also contribute enough to cover the balance. You may even be [...]

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How do I buy a second home? If you want to get a second home, expect the financing to be different from your primary residence. Buying a second home may require you to provide more down payment, possess a higher credit score and declare whether you’ll be using it for vacation or an investment. Depending [...]

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