When shopping for a mortgage, you may come across an option that allows you to pay only the interest for the first several years of the loan. These are called interest-only mortgages, and while they may sound appealing at first glance, they are not the right fit for everyone. Understanding how they work and who benefits from them is key to making a smart decision. How Interest-Only Mortgages WorkAn interest-only mortgage allows borrowers to pay only the interest on their loan for an initial … [Read more...]
The One Number More Important Than Your Credit Score for Mortgage Approval
When it comes to getting approved for a mortgage, most people immediately think of their credit score. While it is definitely important, there is another number that can play an even bigger role in your approval, our debt-to-income ratio. Also known as DTI, this number gives lenders a clearer picture of your ability to manage monthly payments and overall debt. What Is Debt-to-Income RatioYour debt-to-income ratio is the percentage of your monthly gross income that goes toward paying debts. This … [Read more...]
Can I Roll Closing Costs Into My Mortgage to Reduce My Upfront Expenses?
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a range of upfront costs that can add up quickly. One of the biggest financial concerns for many homebuyers is closing costs. These expenses, which typically range from 2 to 5 percent of the home’s purchase price, can put a strain on your budget. If you are wondering whether you can roll your closing costs into your mortgage to reduce your upfront expenses, the answer depends on the type of loan you are using and your … [Read more...]
To Finance Or Not To Finance
Deciding to finance a new home can be exciting, and because of that buyers tend to want to jump right in. Not so fast! Before you start searching for your dream home, you need to get pre-approved and that means applying for a loan. You will need to get things in order by deciding how much home you can afford, mapping out your expenses, gathering all of your documents and then start looking for a lender that can help you decide what loan is best for you. Some Pros of financing a home are: … [Read more...]
