Choosing a mortgage lender is one of the most significant financial decisions a person will make. While interest rates and loan terms are crucial quan...
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When navigating the path to homeownership, few steps are as pivotal and misunderstood as the property appraisal and valuation. This critical procedure...
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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...
Read MoreYour first point of contact should always be the new servicer, as they are now responsible for your loan. If you cannot resolve the issue with them, you can contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or your state’s attorney general’s office for assistance.
Lower Interest Rate: Mortgage interest rates are typically much lower than credit card or personal loan rates, saving you money.
Simplified Finances: You combine multiple payments into one single, predictable monthly payment.
Potential Tax Benefits: The interest you pay on a mortgage used for home acquisition (which can include a second mortgage used to consolidate debt in some cases) may be tax-deductible (consult a tax advisor).
Fixed Payments: With a Home Equity Loan, you get a fixed interest rate and payment, making budgeting easier.
Property taxes are based on the assessed value of your home and the land it sits on. A local government tax assessor determines this value, and the tax rate (or millage rate) is set by local taxing authorities like the city, county, and school district. The tax is calculated by multiplying the assessed value by the tax rate.
To ensure the best possible outcome:
Provide the appraiser with a list of recent improvements and their costs.
Ensure the home is clean, tidy, and well-maintained.
Make sure all areas of the home, including attics and crawl spaces, are accessible.
Have a list of comparable sales you believe support your value (your real estate agent can help with this).
While our core operations run during business hours, our team often works flexibly to meet client needs. You may receive communications during evenings or weekends, but please do not feel obligated to respond until standard business hours. For true after-hours emergencies, a dedicated on-call number will be provided for urgent, time-sensitive closing issues.
