29
Jan
By Todd Grey
Home Financing Tips, ,

Can You Be a First-Time Homebuyer Again?

Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, and first-time homebuyer programs make the process easier for many stepping into homeownership. But what if you’ve owned a home before or are currently a homeowner? Can you qualify as a first-time homebuyer again? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. Under certain conditions, you may be eligible for these programs more than once. Here's a closer look at how it works, the eligibility criteria, and how to make the most of these opportunities. Who Qualifies as a First-Time Homebuyer? The term “first-time homebuyer” doesn’t always mean it’s your first-ever purchase. According to the U.S.…
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23
Jan
By Todd Grey
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Is It Time to Stop Paying Rent and Start Building Equity?

Have you ever calculated how much rent you’ve paid over the years? It’s a staggering number. According to studies, the average American spends between $133,000 and $155,000 on rent in just six to seven years. Let’s break that down and explore what it means for your financial future—and how you might be able to change that narrative. What Does This Number Represent? These figures aren’t just numbers; they’re the cost of temporary housing over time. Rent payments are necessary to secure a place to live, but unlike a mortgage, they don’t build equity. When you rent, your monthly payments benefit…
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26
Dec
By Todd Grey
Bankruptcy History, ,

Steps to Secure a Mortgage After Bankruptcy

Experiencing bankruptcy can feel like a significant setback, but it doesn’t mean the end of your dream to own a home. With time, effort, and careful planning, you can rebuild your financial foundation and secure a mortgage. Here are some key steps to guide you through the process of buying a home after bankruptcy. Step 1: Get a Professional Credit Assessment After your bankruptcy is discharged, there is typically a waiting period before you can apply for a mortgage—usually two years for Chapter 7 bankruptcy and as little as one year for Chapter 13, depending on the loan type. Use…
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19
Dec
By Todd Grey
Home Mortgage Tips, ,

What If My Mortgage Pre-Approval Expires?

A mortgage pre-approval is one of the most valuable tools in your homebuying journey. It's not just a letter stating how much you're qualified to borrow; it’s a written commitment from your lender that assures sellers you have the financial backing to make a competitive offer. Having a pre-approval letter in hand can give you a significant advantage in a competitive housing market, signaling to sellers that you’re serious, financially prepared, and ready to move forward. However, like many things in life, pre-approval letters have an expiration date. If you don't find your dream home before that date passes, you…
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29
Nov
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Rates, ,

What You Can Do Now to Prepare for Mortgage Rate Drops

As we move into the last month of 2024, many potential homebuyers are eagerly awaiting a drop in mortgage rates. With inflation numbers looking promising, there's hope that the Federal Reserve will lower the federal funds rate, which typically drives mortgage rates down as well. If you're planning to buy a home or refinance when rates drop, now is the perfect time to start preparing. Here are five key steps to get ready for the mortgage rate decrease and ensure you’re in the best possible position: 1. Improve Your Credit ScoreYour credit score is one of the most important factors…
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