10
Sep
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

Understanding the Temporary Rate Reduction Mortgage

Buying a home is exciting, but the thought of monthly mortgage payments can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. One strategy to ease the financial burden is a temporary rate reduction. This type of mortgage allows borrowers to pay a lower interest rate for the first two years of the loan before it returns to the original fixed rate. How a Temporary Rate Reduction WorksIn a temporary rate reduction, the interest rate is lowered in stages during the first two years. In the first year, the borrower pays a rate typically two percentage points below the note rate. In the…
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09
Sep
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

Why Credit Monitoring Matters During the Mortgage Process

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. While it is exciting to pick out your dream home, the mortgage process can be complex and stressful. One critical factor that can make or break your journey is your credit. Credit monitoring gives you the insight and control you need to stay on track. Know Your CreditCredit monitoring keeps you updated on changes to your credit report and score. Lenders rely heavily on your credit profile to determine eligibility, interest rates, and loan terms. Even small changes, such as a new debt or late payment,…
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05
Sep
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

Mortgages in a Rising Rate Environment: Strategies to Save

Understanding the Impact of Rising Rates Mortgage rates play a major role in how much house you can afford. Even a small increase can raise monthly payments and affect how much you qualify for. For example, the same loan amount at a higher rate could cost hundreds of dollars more each month. This is why buyers often feel pressure to act quickly when rates begin to climb. However, it is important to remember that interest rates are only one piece of the puzzle. Homeownership provides long-term value, stability, and the opportunity to build equity. Instead of focusing only on the…
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22
Aug
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

Can You Use Rental Income to Qualify for a Mortgage?

When it comes to qualifying for a mortgage, your income plays a key role in determining how much you can borrow. For many buyers, especially those interested in investment properties or who plan to rent out part of their home, the question is whether rental income can be counted toward their mortgage qualification. The good news is that in many cases, rental income can help, but there are specific rules and documentation requirements you will need to meet. Understanding How Lenders View Rental IncomeLenders want to ensure that any rental income you list is reliable and can be used to…
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13
Aug
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

The Benefits of Paying Points on Your Mortgage

The Benefits of Paying Points on Your MortgageWhen you take out a mortgage, you may be given the option to pay points in exchange for a lower interest rate. A mortgage point, also known as a discount point, is equal to 1% of the loan amount. For example, if you re financing $200,000, one point would cost $2,000. While paying points means you ll pay more upfront, it can offer long-term savings. Understanding the benefits of paying points on your mortgage can help you decide if it's the right move for you. What Are Mortgage Points?Mortgage points are fees paid…
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