Understanding the Benefits of Owning Your First Home

October 12, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Are you considering buying your first home? If so, it can be helpful to know what led other people to make that decision. According to a recent survey of first-time homebuyers by PulteGroup:

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

Beginning with Pre-Approval

September 29, 2023 by First Federal Bank

If you’re looking to buy a home this fall, there are a few things you need to know. Affordability is tight with today’s mortgage rates and rising home prices. At the same time, there’s a limited number of homes on the market right now and that’s creating some competition among buyers. But, if you’re strategic, there are ways to navigate these...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

The Pros and Cons of A Fixed Rate Second Mortgage vs. Opening a Home Equity Line of Credit

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

When it comes to a mortgage and the financial stability of your home, there's no such thing as too much you can know in the case of keeping your biggest investment safe. If you're looking at paying off debt and are considering using the equity in your home, here are a few things you'll need to know about refinancing your mortgage and home equity...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

3 Reasons Why Your Mortgage Lender Might Ask for Your Tax Returns - And Why You Should Provide Them

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

After you have completed the initial loan application and have signed the preliminary loan disclosures, your mortgage loan application will generally receive a preliminary prequalification. This prequalification will be based in large part on your ability to provide documentation to support your statements on your loan application, including your...

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

The Pros and Cons of Paying Your Mortgage off Biweekly Versus Monthly

September 27, 2023 by First Federal Bank

If you have a mortgage, you're probably looking for the best option to pay it off. Monthly mortgage payments are an easy-to-manage way to pay for your house- in fact, they're the most common form of mortgage payment  but now, many homeowners are discovering that biweekly payments offer them better results.

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

3 Important Factors That Affect Your Real Estate Transaction

September 25, 2023 by First Federal Bank

The real estate market is quite different from other markets and can be confusing for even the most experienced buyers and sellers. You will need the help of a real estate agent whether you are an experienced buyer or doing it for the first time. Even with the help of an agent, you can educate yourself on some of the basic elements of a real...

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

Lowballing 101: How to Avoid Insulting a Home Seller

September 25, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Buying a home is a huge step for people who are ready to make an investment in their future. Getting a great deal on a home is just as important and knowing how much to offer could be confusing. It is important to make sure the home seller is not insulted by the lowball offer and is ready to negotiate to make sure everyone wins.

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

Give the Ultimate Holiday Gift: Pay Off a Family Member's Mortgage

September 25, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Christmas is just around the corner, and if you're in a position to do it, paying off a family member's mortgage is one of the biggest gifts you could give this holiday season. A mortgage can be a heavy burden on a young homeowner, which is why paying it off is the ultimate act of charity. But when it comes to paying for someone else's mortgage,...

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

Mortgage Rates: Past, Present, and Possible Future

September 13, 2023 by First Federal Bank

Topics: Mortgages / Home Equity

Selling Your Half of a Jointly-owned Home? Here's What You Need to Know

September 12, 2023 by First Federal Bank

There are many factors to consider when it comes to selling your home, and if you own your home with someone else the details involved can be even more confusing. If you're wading into your co-ownership options and are curious about your next steps, here's a short list of some things to think about.Buyout: Selling Your HalfIf you own your home...

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

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