Comparing Banks vs. Credit Unions

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Banks vs. Credit Unions: Which is Better for Your Mortgage?

When embarking on the significant journey of securing a mortgage, one of the first and most crucial decisions is choosing where to obtain your loan. T...

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The Essential Guide to Mortgage Brokers and Aggregators

In the complex journey to homeownership, navigating the labyrinth of loan options, lender criteria, and intricate paperwork can be a daunting task for...

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Don’t Forget This Crucial Step: A Guide to Saving for Closing Costs

When embarking on the journey to homeownership, most prospective buyers diligently save for their down payment, viewing it as the primary financial hu...

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How Loan Officer Commissions Work in Your Mortgage Process

Understanding how a loan officer is compensated is a crucial, yet often overlooked, part of the mortgage journey. Many borrowers focus solely on inter...

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15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage: Choosing Your Financial Path

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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15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage: A Guide to Choosing Your Term

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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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary advantage is the potential to secure a mortgage interest rate that is significantly lower than current market rates. In a high-interest-rate environment, assuming a seller’s low-rate loan can lead to substantial monthly savings and lower the overall cost of the home.

FHA Loan: Yes, FHA loan limits are set by county and are based on local home prices.
VA Loan: In 2024, most VA loan borrowers have no loan limit, meaning they can borrow as much as a lender is willing to approve without a down payment. A limit may apply if you have remaining entitlement on a previous VA loan.
USDA Loan: No set maximum loan amount, but your eligibility is limited by your ability to qualify and the area’s maximum income limit.

Absolutely. You have the right to choose your own homeowners insurance provider, even with an escrow account. If you find a better or cheaper policy, you simply need to provide your lender with the new insurance company’s information and proof of coverage. Your lender will then update the records and adjust your escrow payments accordingly during the next analysis.

You are likely a good candidate if:
You want to buy a fixer-upper you couldn’t otherwise afford upfront.
You own a home that needs major updates (like a new roof, kitchen, or addition) but lack the cash to pay for it.
You don’t want to deal with the hassle and higher costs of a separate personal loan, HELOC, or credit card to fund renovations.
You have a solid credit score and a manageable debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.

Yes, you can typically buy points on most common loan types, including conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. The specific cost and rate reduction may vary depending on the loan program and lender.