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Blog

26
Apr
By support
Mortgage, ,

The Home-Buying Closing Process in a Nutshell

The closing process for a home purchase is an exciting time. The home is finished, the purchase is ready to be finalized and it's almost time to move in. The final steps of the closing process ensures both parties are able to meet their requirements and all the paperwork is in place and verified. The Key Players There are actually four parties involved in a typical closing: the buyer, the seller, the bank or lender financing the purchase, and the escrow agent. Each has an important role in making sure the closing happens effectively and efficiently. As is common with…
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25
Apr
By support
Homeowner Tips, ,

Solar Roof Panels: A Mainstream Option For Homeowners?

Do rooftop solar panels add value to a home, and are they cost-effective in terms of energy savings? The short answer is yes, say the experts. Although more than a million U.S. homes boasted solar panels in 2016, the percentage of solar-equipped households is still miniscule.  That may change, however, as domestic prices for solar installations continue to decrease and property values rise. The Pros And Cons Of Solar While there is global agreement on the need to encourage cost-effective, non-polluting renewable energy sources, it is also acknowledged that solar effectiveness is not equal in all locations or situations.  Several Southwestern states…
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24
Apr
By support
Mortgage, ,

Equity Loan and HELOC vs. Reverse Mortgage – What’s the Difference?

There are times in our lives when the idea of freeing up cash becomes desirable or necessary. Near retirement, this is a common consideration. The typical financial tool that many retirees want to know about is a reverse mortgage, but it's not the only equity tool available. Equity Loan The equity loan, or second mortgage, is essentially an additional fixed interest loan attached to the home. However, unlike the first mortgage which was used to buy the home, the second mortgage can be used for other purposes such as putting in a pool, redesigning the home to make it more accessible, or to pay for a dream vacation. This kind of loan…
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23
Apr
By support
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – April 23rd, 2018

Last week's economic reports included readings on builder confidence, housing starts and building permits issued. Weekly readings on mortgage rates and new jobless claims were also released. NAHB: Builder Confidence Drops by One Point The National Association of Home Builders reported that builder confidence dipped by one point in April to an index reading of 69. While any reading over 50 indicates positive builder sentiment, NAHB noted that builder sentiment has decreased for the past four months. During the housing bubble of 2004 and 2005, builder confidence in market conditions averaged 68, but analysts said that the post bubble crash…
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20
Apr
By support
Real Estate, ,

Your Guide To Aging In Place Home Modifications

If you've had to watch your parents transition into assisted living, you may have no desire to call such a place home. You are not alone. According to the Aging in Place Housing Survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), more than 90 percent of seniors want to remain in their home. Many survey respondents said that they would rather use nursing home funds towards purchasing a home that is suited for aging in place or making accessible home modifications.   You’ve probably heard the buzzwords — aging in place, non-assisted living, universal design — these phrases…
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