The decision between a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage is one of the most significant financial choices a homebuyer can make, setting the trajectory fo...
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The choice between a 15-year and a 30-year mortgage is one of the most significant financial decisions a homebuyer or refinancer will make. This decis...
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The journey to homeownership is often symbolized by the quest for the perfect mortgage rate, but the financial responsibility extends far beyond that ...
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In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate financing, an often-overlooked option presents a unique opportunity for both buyers and sellers: the ass...
Read MoreThe 1% Rule is a common industry guideline that suggests you should budget for annual maintenance costs equal to 1% of your home’s purchase price. For example, on a $400,000 home, you would set aside $4,000 per year (or about $333 per month). This is a good starting point, but the actual amount can vary based on the home’s age, condition, and location.
Before you buy, your real estate agent should request an HOA resale certificate or estoppel letter. This document will disclose any current or pending special assessments. You can also directly ask the HOA property manager or board president.
Mortgage points, also called discount points, are fees you pay the lender at closing in exchange for a reduced interest rate. This is often called “buying down the rate.“ One point typically costs 1% of your loan amount and may lower your interest rate by 0.25%.
While requirements can vary by lender and loan type, generally:
Excellent: 760 and above (Qualifies for the best available rates)
Very Good: 700-759 (Favorable rates)
Good: 680-699 (Average to good rates)
Fair: 620-679 (May face higher rates and more scrutiny)
Poor: Below 620 (May have difficulty qualifying for conventional loans)
Formally known as an Exterior-Only Inspection Appraisal, this is a less common type where the appraiser does not enter the home. They value the property based on exterior observations and public records. Lenders may only use this for certain low-risk loans (like some refinances) or when an interior inspection is not feasible.
