How Long Does a Home Appraisal Take? What You Need to Know.

Purchasing a home is a multifaceted endeavor that entails several steps, with a crucial one being the home appraisal. This assessment plays a pivotal role in ensuring both the buyer and the mortgage lender are making a sound financial investment. But what exactly does a home appraisal entail, and how long does it typically take? Let’s delve into the fundamentals of home appraisals and explore the factors that can influence their duration.

Read More
VA Loan Vs Conventional Loan: Understanding the Key Differences in Mortgage Options

You're weighing your mortgage options, and the choice between a VA loan and a conventional loan looms large.

Dive into this guide to discern the key differences that'll shape your buying power and long-term costs.

Whether you're a service member eyeing the VA's generous terms or a civilian considering traditional lending, you're about to unravel which path leads to your financial sweet spot in the complex world of home financing.

Read More
MortgageErin Tatum
A Comprehensive Guide to How Seller Concessions Work

When purchasing a house, you incur closing costs and fees to cover the expenses related to obtaining a mortgage. Typically, closing costs range from around 3% to 6% of the home's price.

In certain instances, you may have the opportunity to have the seller agrees to pay a portion of these closing costs. These are referred to as seller concessions, and they can be a valuable means to reduce your closing expenses. Before finalizing your mortgage, it's essential to understand how to leverage seller concessions to your benefit.

Read More
Home Buying, MortgageErin Tatum
Guide to Getting a Mortgage for College Graduates Buying a House

Are you a recent college graduate wondering if homeownership is within your reach? The answer is yes – it's entirely possible to buy a home as a new grad. However, there are unique challenges to navigate compared to more established homebuyers. This comprehensive guide will help you understand these obstacles, explore the mortgage options available to you, weigh the pros and cons of early homeownership, and provide practical tips to make your home buying journey a success.

Read More
Home Equity Loans vs. HELOC: What You Need to Know

As an existing homeowner, you might find yourself in need of funds for various financial purposes, such as home renovations or other financial goals. While you may be hesitant to pursue a cash-out refinance, which involves replacing your current mortgage with a new one and receiving cash in return, there are alternative options available to you. Both home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) offer solutions to access the money you require. In this comparison, we will explore the differences between a home equity loan and a HELOC, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages, to assist you in determining which option aligns better with your financial needs.

Read More