Mortgage - Buying your first home?

Mortgage Advice

• 7 mortgage fears that sideline homebuyers

  Would you like to buy a home but worry that you'd never qualify for a mortgage? It's time to stop guessing and evaluate your chances to land a loan based on everything from how much you make to your credit score. Believe it or not, the odds are in your favor.

  June 14th 2019

• Should you lend your kids money to buy a home?

  Lending money to your child is risky business. But if you can avoid the personal pitfalls and convince the federal government that this is really a loan, and not a gift, the Bank of Mom and Dad can be a financial boon for everyone in the family.

  June 13th 2019

• How to buy a condo with confidence

  It's not enough to find a good location at an affordable price. Condo buyers must consider lots of extra costs, from association fees and special assessments to how well the building is maintained and how strictly it enforces rules on everything from noise to pets.

  June 10th 2019

• How to win a bidding war

  Existing homes continue to be snapped up at a record pace, and competition remains fierce. That's why buyers need a winning strategy to compete for their dream home.

  June 5th 2019

• How much house can you afford?

  How much house can you afford? If that's on your mind, you're in good company. Mortgage rates are still historically low, making it a good time to purchase.

  May 28th 2019

• Will I be happy in a condo?

  Before you dive into condo living, you have to make sure it's truly what you want. Use these 9 questions to make sure you'll be happy in a condo.

  May 27th 2019

• 7 smart moves for buying a foreclosure

  Deals on foreclosures are still out there. But they're not as easy to find as they were a few years ago, and you still need to avoid all of the costly pitfalls that can turn any repossessed home into a burden, not a bargain.

  May 23rd 2019

• The 7 biggest mortgage mistakes to avoid

  Dodging these pitfalls will make you a happier homebuyer now and more satisfied homeowner down the road. You'll know that you got the best possible mortgage and won't be overwhelmed by unexpected costs.

  May 22nd 2019

• What you need to know about private mortgage insurance

  If you don't make a 20% down payment, you'll be required to carry private mortgage insurance, or PMI. Although you're the one who must pay monthly premiums for this coverage, it protects the lender, not you.

  May 20th 2019

• Mortgage rates fall in May 2019

  Current mortgage rates are higher than they were last month. But rates on home loans are still historically low and a little easier to obtain, too.