What the New Credit Score Models Mean for Homebuyers

What the New Credit Score Models Mean for Homebuyers

Starting in 2025, new credit scoring models will be used by lenders to determine the creditworthiness of potential homebuyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will mandate the adoption of the new FICO Score 10T and VantageScore 4.0 by the end of the year. For those 

Basics and Importance of Title Insurance

Basics and Importance of Title Insurance

Title insurance is a critical component of the home selling process, yet many homeowners do not fully understand what it is or its value. Simply stated, title insurance protects both buyer and seller from any potential issues with the property’s title. When selling a home, 

New Home Loan Limits Announced for 2024

New Home Loan Limits Announced for 2024

As home prices continue to rise, consumers are getting a break from the Federal Housing Administration who regulates the loan limits for conforming and government guaranteed loan programs.  Home loans are categorized into government guaranteed, conforming, and jumbo lending products. As the name suggests, jumbo 

“Date the Rate and Marry the House” – Is This Still a Good Idea?

“Date the Rate and Marry the House” – Is This Still a Good Idea?

You’ve heard the old expression, “Date the Rate but Marry the House.” The idea is that you can always refinance the loan, but the right house may not come around again. But with rising interest rates and falling home inventory, many buyers are wondering if 

Home Values Have Gone Up – Can You Drop Your Mortgage Insurance?

Home Values Have Gone Up – Can You Drop Your Mortgage Insurance?

Everyone is looking for ways to save money these days. With rampant inflation and soaring energy costs, everything is costing more than it was a year ago. The good news is that in most areas, home values rose along with everything else, and many homeowners 

Rising Interest Rates – Should I Lock in the Mortgage Rate?

Rising Interest Rates – Should I Lock in the Mortgage Rate?

One of the most important financial considerations of buying a new home is the interest rate paid on the mortgage. Over time, a higher interest rate can add thousands of dollars to the true cost of buying the home. When interest rates are low or 

Risks of Removing Buyer’s Contingencies

Risks of Removing Buyer’s Contingencies

Typical real estate offers include a wide variety of standard contingencies. These can include home inspections, appraisal, and loan approval. In a fast-moving, seller’s market, one of the ways to make an offer more appealing is to remove contingencies. Real estate contingencies are intended to 

After a Forbearnace

After a Forbearnace

Covid-19 has impacted homeowners across the country. With job losses and income reductions, many have taken advantage of the ability to enter a forbearance program with their lenders. During the forbearance program, the agreements state that no late fees will be assessed, and the balance