Many potential homebuyers worry that carrying credit card debt will prevent them from qualifying for a mortgage. While it is true that lenders carefully evaluate your financial profile, having credit card balances does not automatically disqualify you. By understanding how lenders view debt, taking strategic steps to improve your application, and choosing the right mortgage program, you can still achieve your goal of homeownership.
The Mortgage Options That Make It Possible to Buy a Fixer-Upper
Buying a fixer-upper can be an exciting way to get into a desirable neighborhood at a lower price point, while also creating a home that reflects your style and needs. However, financing a property that needs significant repairs can be challenging if you are only looking at traditional mortgage products. The good news is there are several mortgage options designed specifically for buyers who are ready to take on a renovation project. Understanding these options can help you choose the right path to turn a home with potential into your dream property.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 18th, 2025
This will be the first release of the CPI and PPI data wherein the data collected and used to determine the current inflation has been reduced. The Producer Price Index has shown quite clearly that there has been the biggest whole price jump in the last 3 years, showing that the administration's policies on tariffs are having an impact. The CPI has shown a similar increase in inflation, but still within expectations in lieu of the current tariff policies.
The Pros and Cons of Mortgage Assumptions
When purchasing a home, buyers typically assume a new mortgage loan. However, in some situations, a buyer may opt to assume the seller's existing mortgage. Known as a mortgage assumption, this process allows the buyer to take over the terms and payments of the seller's current loan. While mortgage assumptions can offer benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of mortgage assumptions can help you determine whether this option is right for you.
The Impact of Bankruptcy on Mortgage Eligibility
Going through bankruptcy can be a challenging and stressful process. However, it s important to understand how bankruptcy may affect your ability to secure a mortgage in the future. Bankruptcy, whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, can significantly impact your credit score and financial history, both of which are critical factors when applying for a mortgage. Despite this, it's possible to obtain a mortgage after bankruptcy, though the path may be a bit more complicated.
The Benefits of Paying Points on Your Mortgage
When you take out a mortgage, you may be given the option to pay points in exchange for a lower interest rate. A mortgage point, also known as a discount point, is equal to 1% of the loan amount. For example, if you re financing $200,000, one point would cost $2,000. While paying points means you ll pay more upfront, it can offer long-term savings. Understanding the benefits of paying points on your mortgage can help you decide if it's the right move for you.
Cash-Out Refinance vs. Rate-and-Term Refinance: Which One Is Right for You?
When considering refinancing your mortgage, two main options often come to the forefront: Cash-Out Refinance and Rate-and-Term Refinance. Both allow you to change the terms of your mortgage, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. Understanding the differences between these two refinancing options is crucial to making an informed decision that best aligns with your financial goals.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 11th, 2025
There were several notable releases this last week, with the largest being the PCE Index -- the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation indicator. The PCE Index may be the more accurate indicator going forward, as data collection for the Consumer Price Index has been recently cut, thereby reducing its reliability. As expected, the inflation numbers have been steadily rising with the PCE Index, indicating that impacts from the tariffs are now filtering into prices for both producers and consumers.
Why Retirees Are Taking Out Mortgages on Purpose
For generations, the goal was simple, pay off your mortgage before retirement and enjoy your golden years debt-free. But today's retirees are changing the conversation. More and more, homeowners in or near retirement are choosing to take out a mortgage on purpose, not out of necessity. And for many, it is a smart financial move.
Your Mortgage Timeline, Backward
For many homebuyers, the mortgage process feels like a maze. You know you want to own a home, but the path to get there can feel confusing. So let us try something different. Instead of walking forward through the process, let us walk backward, starting from the moment you get the keys and working our way to where you are now.
