07
Aug
By Todd Grey
Home Financing Tips, ,

Mortgage Insights: What You Need to Know About Financing a Fixer-Upper

Buying a fixer-upper can be a strategic way to acquire a home below market value while customizing it to fit your needs. However, the financing process for these properties requires a bit of extra insight. As a loan officer, I’m here to guide you through the key mortgage considerations for purchasing a fixer-upper and help you secure the right financing to make your renovation dreams a reality. Explore Specialized Loan Options When it comes to financing a fixer-upper, traditional mortgages often fall short. Here are a few specialized loan options designed to address the unique needs of these properties: FHA…
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06
Aug
By Todd Grey
Credit Scoring, ,

Understanding Your FICO Score: Key to Better Home Loan Rates

When you're looking to buy a home, one of the most important numbers you need to know is your FICO score. This three-digit number represents your creditworthiness and plays a crucial role in determining the terms of your home loan. Let's discuss what a FICO score is, how it's calculated, and why it matters for your home-buying journey. What is a FICO Score? A FICO score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, ranging from 300 to 850. It is calculated based on your credit report, which includes your payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new credit, and…
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05
Aug
By Todd Grey
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 5th, 2024

The Federal Reserve's decision to maintain the current interest rates has paved the way for a potential rate cut in September. While this news has been met enthusiastically by lending partners, the broader markets have indicated a slightly less warm reception despite both the data and Federal Reserve’s intentions being a match. Until September, we can expect a lull in significant data releases, with more substantial decisions anticipated then. FOMC Rate Decision Powell stated that the Federal Reserve seeks "a little more confidence" that inflation is consistently trending downward before taking action. The Federal Reserve’s benchmark short-term interest rate now…
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02
Aug
By Todd Grey
Home Maintenance, ,

How to Upkeep Your Home with a Year-Round Maintenance Checklist

Your home is more than just a building; it’s the setting for your life story. As you plan your monthly calendar, why not include enhancing and maintaining your home? Here, we provide a thorough guide of home maintenance tasks organized into monthly, seasonal, and year-round tips. Monthly Home Maintenance Tips Appliance Check - Regularly inspect and clean appliances such as refrigerator coils, dishwasher filters, and range hood filters. This not only keeps them running smoothly but also extends their lifespan. Inspect Plumbing - Check for water pressure issues, dripping faucets, and running toilets. Tackling these promptly can conserve water and…
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01
Aug
By Todd Grey
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

Managing Your Debt During the Homebuying Process: A Guide for Homebuyers

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting milestone, but it also requires careful financial planning. One crucial aspect is managing your debt effectively. I want to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to navigate this process smoothly. Let's discuss some essential strategies for managing your debt while purchasing a home. Understand Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Firstly, it's essential to understand your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. This ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income and is a critical factor lenders consider when approving a mortgage. A lower DTI ratio indicates you have a healthy balance between…
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