How Large A Down Payment Do I Need?

There are mortgage options now available that only require a down payment of 5% or less of the purchase price. You’ll see some pictures in this video to help you remember later – the larger the down payment, the less you have to borrow and the more equity...

What Is Earnest Money, And How Much Should I Set Aside?

Like the video shows, “earnest money” is money you put down to demonstrate your seriousness about buying a home. It must be substantial enough to demonstrate good faith and is usually between 1-5% of the purchase price though the amount can vary with local...

What Is A Loan Estimate And How Does It Help Me?

A loan estimate lists your loan terms projected payments, costs at closing measures for comparison, including Annual Percentage Rate and Total Interest Percentage and other considerations that lender may apply to this loan application. Each lender must supply a loan...

How Are Pre-Qualifying And Pre-Approval Different?

Watch this video and it’ll make sense. Pre-qualification is an informal way to see how much you maybe able to borrow. You can be ‘pre-qualified’ over the phone with no paperwork by telling a lender your income, your long-term debts and how large a...

Is An Older Home A Better Value Than A New One?

Well, as this story shows, there isn’t a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods offer more ambiance and have lower property tax rates....