Illustration by Andy Rash
Taking the First Steps
In the most recent real estate boom, banks all but flooded the market with a spate of new products. With so many financing flavors available, how do you choose?
Which Mortgage Is Right?
Industry executives say most homebuyers continue to gravitate toward fixed loans and conventional adjustable-rate mortgages, but 80/20, or so-called “piggyback” loans, are gaining in popularity.
Choosing a Broker vs. a Lender
Homebuyers could be forgiven for not understanding the difference between mortgage brokers and mortgage bankers. Why choose one over the other?
Preapproval for a Mortgage
Before you make an offer on a house, you need to know whether a lender rates you as a good credit risk or a bad one. And it is a good indicator as to how much money you can afford to pay for a house.
Deciding How Much to Put Down
A big down payment still may be the most reliable way to insure a future of relatively painless mortgage payments. However, the central question remains: how much is enough?
Determining Whether to Refinance
For first-time homeowners, the question of when to refinance, and how, can be particularly vexing.
Seeking a Second Mortgage or Equity Line
If you are considering borrowing money against the equity in your house, it is important to compare two distinctly different types of credit — loans and equity lines of credit.
Avoiding Surprises at Closing
The best way to avoid hidden or otherwise unnecessary closing costs, mortgage specialists say, is to understand the basics of the process well in advance.
Prepaying a Mortgage, Pro and Con
If you want to shave down the amount of money you owe on your house, it is important to weigh several factors.
Mortgages
More Home Finance News
A Loan in Search of a Market
Although some mortgage executives say 50-year fixed-rate mortgages could yet become popular, others are skeptical.
Qualms About Providing Social Security Number
Does giving out a Social Security number to a landlord put me at risk for identity theft?
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