Homebuying used to mean stashing away a large down payment—but with today’s lending, that’s so yesterday. If you’re a strong buyer who’d prefer not to have government-guaranteed loan restrictions in your life, a low down payment conventional loan could be the answer. Traditional loans are not backed by the government, but they’re one of the […]
Home Buying Tips
Why First-Time Home Buyers Need a Broker: What You Should Know
Purchasing your first home can be exhilarating—but overwhelming. With securing financing, understanding market trends, and making an offer, first-time home buyers are often faced with challenges they hadn’t expected. Understanding a first-time home buyer broker is where it all begins. A mortgage broker (or home purchase broker) is your representative and guide, assisting you in […]
Can You Get a Loan When You Own Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know
Homeownership outright—no mortgage—is an excellent financial fortress. But then what if you need some money for home repairs, college, medical expenses, or other large bills? Can you get a loan? The answer is yes. Homeowners with their own homes outright usually qualify for a variety of loans. But even if you can borrow against your […]
Financial Assistance for First-Time Home Buyers: What You Need to Know
Taking the leap to first-home buyer status is a huge step, but for too many, the financial barriers down payments and closing fees seem insurmountable. The good news: There are a number of programs and resources available to offer financial support to first-time home buyers that can make home ownership easier than ever. What […]
Things You Need to Know Before Buying a House: A Complete Guide for Smart Homebuyers
Home buying is a life milestone—a emotional process and a long-term financial commitment. Whether you are buying your first home or moving up to your dream home, getting it right is critical. In today’s competitive housing market, with prices increasing, lenders tightening their standards, and inventory low, you require more than enthusiasm to make it […]
A Complete Guide to the VHDA First-Time Home Buyer Program
Purchasing your first home can be thrilling and overwhelming at the same time, especially under pressure of increasing housing costs and down payments. Luckily, residents of Virginia have access to a solid array of tools courtesy of the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA)–now doing business as Virginia Housing. Virginia Housing features exclusive programs that assist […]
What Is a Pre-Approval Letter and Why It’s Important When You Buy a Home
Purchasing a home is probably the largest financial investment you’ll ever make. If you’re a first-time buyer or relocating to your next home, one of the most significant initial steps in the home-buying process is to become pre-approved for a mortgage. A pre-approval letter not only notifies you of how much you’re qualified for, but […]
A Comprehensive Guide to VA Mortgage Loans: Benefits, Eligibility, and Insights
Understanding the home loan process can be confusing, and with all the financing options out there, it may be difficult to know where to turn. One of the best—with all the fuss seeming not worth it—is the VA mortgage loan. Guaranteed by a federal agency, these loans are intended to make owning a home more […]