How the Federal Reserve Influences Rates

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How to Calculate Your Debt-to-Income Ratio for a Mortgage

Before you embark on the journey of applying for a mortgage, there is one crucial number you must know: your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI. This single...

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How to Check and Improve Your Credit Score for a Better Mortgage

Your credit score is far more than just a number; it is the cornerstone of your financial profile and a critical factor in the mortgage application pr...

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Navigating a Mortgage Servicer Transfer: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The arrival of a notice in the mail announcing that your mortgage servicing rights have been transferred to a new company can be an unsettling experie...

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How to Determine Your Affordable Down Payment

The down payment stands as one of the most significant initial hurdles in the journey to homeownership. While the allure of a 20% down payment is ofte...

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How a Stable Employment History Strengthens Your Mortgage Application

When you apply for a mortgage, lenders are fundamentally trying to answer one question: How likely are you to repay this large loan? While your credit...

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How to Evaluate Mortgage Lender Reviews and Reputation for a Confident Choice

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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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

PMI is insurance that protects the lender if you default on your loan. It is typically required if your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price. The cost varies but usually falls between 0.5% and 1.5% of the loan amount annually, added to your monthly payment. You can request to cancel PMI once your equity reaches 20%.

Clear communication is key. Find out if you’ll be working with one loan officer or a team, their preferred method of communication (email, phone, portal), and their typical response time for questions.

No. The mortgage servicing transfer is a contractual right held by the owner of your loan.
You agreed to this possibility in the original stack of loan documents you signed at closing.
Borrowers do not have the ability to block or prevent a lawful transfer.

For complex projects, yes. A professional landscape designer or architect can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure proper drainage, select plants suited to your climate, and create a cohesive, functional design that enhances your property value. For simple lawn and shrub installation, a capable DIYer can save money.

Not everyone can join every credit union, but most people are eligible for at least one. Membership is based on a “field of membership,“ which could be your employer, geographic location, membership in an association, or even your family. It’s often much easier to qualify for membership than people think.