You understand how your home is an excellent investment for the long term. But there may be times you need to benefit from ownership in the short term. Here are three ways to maximize your home’s equity while staying financially secure, according to Forbes:
Those of us who live in the south know gardening and lawn care look a little different in the fall than in other parts of the country. Unlike many people, we are not preparing for harsh winter weather. Our growing season is longer, just as our foliage is different. There are a few key things you can do this time of year to keep your garden and lawn
Topics: Lifestyle, Homeowners
Buydowns: A Strategy for Lowering Interest Rates
1. Upfront Payment: Another party pays an upfront payment at closing.2. Interest Rate Reduction: In exchange for the upfront payment, First Federal Bank will lower the interest rate on the mortgage for a specified period. We do 3-2-1 buydowns, 2-1 buydowns, and 1-0 buydowns.A common buydown might be...
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a popular way to turn home ownership into cash when you need it. You can turn the equity in your home into a line of credit that functions like a credit card. According to Business Insider, whether a HELOC is the right move for your finances depends on a few factors:
Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity
To ensure a timely and successful loan processing, at minimum you’ll need to provide the following documentation when you apply for your loan:
- -Driver’s License(s)-Social Security number(s)-Current and previous residence history for the past two years-Name and address of your employment for the past two years-Paystubs from the last 30...
Topics: Homeowners
If a buyer is interested in securing condominium financing, it’s important to know that condos have their own process of being approved for financing. Review the lists below to determine whether a condo project is currently approved for financing. Please note the lists are categorized based on the type of financing obtained for the condo.
Topics: Homeowners
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting yet intricate process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the loan approval process can ease your path to securing your dream home. This guide lays out each crucial step, from the initial prequalification to the final closing, providing a clear...
Topics: Homeowners
Hurricane season is just around the corner. It officially begins June 1, and forecasters are expecting an active season for 2024. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed a guide to help residents prepare to keep their families and their property safe. It includes important steps you should be taking now to ensure you are in the...
Topics: Financial Education, Family, Homeowners
Are you looking to buy a house in the next year? If so, make sure you check your credit first!
As you are considering purchasing your new home, your first step should be reviewing your credit report. Your credit report is an important collection of data which a mortgage company will base your approval, rate, and terms of your mortgage loan....
Topics: Homeowners