Category: First-Time Homebuyer

Despite fluctuations in the economy, home values continue to climb.  Reuters reported in June 2018 that U.S. housing prices are expected to rise at twice the speed of inflation and pay. But, what does this mean for renters who are trying to save for a down payment and are doing so at a much slower rate?

Congratulations, you have found your dream home! You and your realtor have worked out all the details with the seller and have finally agreed to the purchase price. Now what?

Are you in you ready to take control of your life? Sidestepping these 10 mistakes can move you closer to financial freedom.

After months of looking, you finally found your dream home. It’s located in an area with a low crime rate, in one of the top school districts in the region, and to top it off - your move-in ready home is a few short miles from your employer. You’d move in next week if you could. But, before you rush…

You’re ready to buy a new home. You’ve agreed on a price, have a mortgage ready, and booked the movers. However, there is one final expense you’ll need to deal with before you can sign your paperwork, collect your keys, and move in. It’s called closing costs. Understanding what closing costs are and how much you’ll need to pay for them will help you budget for your new home.

By Chad Neiss - Vice President, Mortgage Lending You’ve been watching more than your fair share of home remodeling shows lately. And, who can blame you? With television networks devoted to backyard, kitchen, and whole home remodels, you can’t help but dream about life without the limitations that come with renting. But, it does make you wonder if homeownership is really…

How Much of Your Income Should Go Toward Housing? If you’re ready to start house-hunting – or if you’re just looking to build a better budget – you need to know how much of your income should go toward housing.

If you have never applied for a mortgage, getting started can seem daunting.  Fear of the unknown can even cause first-time homebuyers to put off looking for a home, even when they can afford one. This is completely understandable since it will probably be the biggest purchase you’ll make in your lifetime. To take some of the worry away, we have broken down the entire process into six easy steps so you can make your dream of home ownership a reality.

You’ll want to weigh your options carefully and choose the type of mortgage that makes the most sense for your individual situation.

Should you rent or should you buy a home? Learn the 6 questions you need to ask to weigh the benefits and drawbacks for both.