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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A balloon mortgage can appear as an attractive, low-cost entry into homeownership, but it carries a unique set of financial risks that borrowers must ...
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The journey to homeownership culminates in two critical final steps: the final walkthrough and the review of the Closing Disclosure. While they occur ...
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Navigating the world of home financing begins with a fundamental understanding of mortgage types and terms. A mortgage is more than just a loan; it is...
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Private Mortgage Insurance, commonly referred to as PMI, is a crucial financial product that enables millions of Americans to achieve the dream of hom...
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For most homeowners, their monthly mortgage payment encompasses more than just the principal and interest on their loan. A significant portion often g...
Read MoreYes, some third-party fees are generally non-negotiable because the lender does not control them. These include appraisal fees, credit report fees, title insurance, and government recording fees. However, the lender’s own fees—such as origination, application, and underwriting fees—are often open for discussion.
You can make an extra payment at any time, but it’s most effective early in the loan’s term when the interest portion of your payment is highest. Ensure the payment is specifically designated for “principal reduction” and is applied in the same billing cycle it’s received.
An assumable mortgage is a home financing arrangement where the homebuyer takes over the seller’s existing mortgage, including its current principal balance, interest rate, remaining term, and all other original terms. The buyer is then responsible for the remaining payments on the loan.
A properly executed rate lock is a binding agreement, and the lender cannot revoke it or change the rate during the lock period, provided you close on time and your financial situation does not change materially (e.g., your credit score drops significantly or you change the loan amount).
Standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. If your home is in a designated high-risk flood zone (Special Flood Hazard Area), your lender will require you to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
