MortgageCast

Hardscaping: Refers to the non-living, hard elements like patios, walkways, retaining walls, and decks. This is typically the most expensive part of landscaping, often costing thousands of dollars.
Softscaping: Refers to the living, horticultural elements like plants, trees, grass, and mulch. While costs can add up, it is generally less expensive per square foot than hardscaping.

An interest-only mortgage is a home loan where, for a set initial period (typically 5-10 years), your monthly payments only cover the interest charged on the borrowed amount. You are not paying down the principal loan balance during this time. At the end of the interest-only term, the loan typically converts to a standard repayment mortgage, and your payments will increase significantly to pay off the capital.

Common reasons for denial include:
Insufficient Income: Your income is too low to support the mortgage payment.
High Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Your existing debts are too high relative to your income.
Poor Credit History: Low credit score, recent late payments, collections, or a bankruptcy/foreclosure.
Low Appraisal: The property isn’t worth the loan amount.
Unstable Employment: Gaps in employment or an inability to verify stable income.

Yes, in most states, insurance companies use a “credit-based insurance score” to help set premiums. This score is similar to a traditional credit score and is based on your credit history. Studies have shown a correlation between credit history and the likelihood of filing an insurance claim. A lower score could lead to higher homeowner’s insurance premiums.