New-home Construction Pros: Modern floor plan (open space, flex rooms, larger windows) Delayed major maintenance costs (such as roof or HVAC) Lower utility bills as a result of stricter building codes and newer energy-efficient products More upfront personalization Builder warranties on materials, workmanship and structural items Cons: Higher upfront costs Special financing, such as construction […]

Buy now, or wait? That’s the question prospective homeowners are struggling to answer in today’s housing market, where home prices have skyrocketed and mortgage rates have surged to a 14-year high. Many would-be buyers are leaning toward the “wait” side of that equation. In fact, 73 percent of consumers believe it is a bad time to […]

Getting a mortgage approval can take between a few minutes to a few days. The time can vary depending on the lender. Completing all the paperwork in advance could speed things up, but the process of getting approval starts even before you submit the paperwork.  Here are our top 3 tips to help you get […]

Owning a home can have several tax benefits. These benefits can include deducting the interest you pay on your mortgage, the cost of repairs and improvements made to your home, and even the property taxes you pay each year. If you’re looking for a way to reduce your taxable income, owning a home is one […]

Mortgage pre-approval is the process by which lenders assess your income, assets, and credit score in order to determine what loans you might be qualified for, how much you may borrow, and what interest rate you may expect. Getting a pre-approval is an important first step in your home buying journey. Find out why you […]

Buying a home for the first time can be both an exciting and daunting experience. There are many things to consider when making one of the biggest investments of your life. You should consider your budget, location, and desired amenities. You’ll also want to be prepared for the home-buying process, which can be long and […]

Homeowners ready to make a move are definitely in a great position to sell today. Housing inventory is incredibly low, driving up buyer competition. This gives homeowners leverage to sell for the best possible terms, and it’s fueling a steady rise in home prices. In such a hot market, houses are selling quickly. According to […]

Homeownership is a foundational part of the American Dream. As we look back on more than a year of sheltering in our homes, having a place of our own is more important than ever. While financial benefits are always a key aspect of homeownership, today, homeowners rank the nonfinancial and personal benefits with even higher […]

As a buyer in a sellers’ market, sometimes it can feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place. When you’re ready to make an offer on a home, remember these five easy tips to help you rise above the competition.   Know Your Budget Knowing your budget and what you can afford […]

There are many financial and non-financial benefits of homeownership, and the greatest financial one is wealth creation. Homeownership has always been the first rung on the ladder that leads to forming household wealth. As Freddie Mac explains: “Homeownership has cemented its role as part of the American Dream, providing families with a place that is […]