Mortgage - Buying your first home?

Mortgage Advice

• Get your paperwork ready before applying for a mortgage

  Here's a checklist of what you'll need and it's extensive — W-2s, pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, brokerage statements and more. It's never too early to start a file and fill it up.

  June 21st 2017

• Mortgage rates fall in June 2017

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

  June 14th 2017

• 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 2017

• How to save on closing costs

  You’ve scouted out the best mortgage rate and fought hard to get the best price on your new home. But your bargaining shouldn’t stop there. Here's how you can save on everything from settlement fees to title insurance.

  June 9th 2017

• 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 2017

• 8 critical questions your Loan Estimate will answer

  Borrowers are receiving a new form called a Loan Estimate after they apply for a mortgage. It explains the key terms, from interest rates to closing costs, and ensures you're getting the home loan your lender promised.

  June 2nd 2017

• How to tell if mortgage points are worth the cost

  Paying points to get a lower interest rate is almost always a losing proposition because most homeowners don’t keep their loans long enough to recoup the up-front costs. Are you an exception to the rule?

  June 1st 2017

• 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 historically low, making it a good time to purchase.

  May 31st 2017

• 4 smart moves to challenge a home appraisal

  A low estimate causes about 1 in every 10 home sales to fall through each month, agents report. Here's what to do when an appraisal of your home's value seems to miss the mark.

  May 26th 2017

• Reverse mortgage disadvantages and advantages

  Can a reverse mortgage help you? Before utilizing it as a tool, take time to thoroughly understand reverse mortgage disadvantages and advantages.

  May 24th 2017