When you apply for a mortgage, your lender will have you complete the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA). This form, designed by the federal government and used nationwide, can be daunting for first-timers. Being informed...
When you apply for a mortgage, your lender will have you complete the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA). This form, designed by the federal government and used nationwide, can be daunting for first-timers. Being informed...
Buyers generally must get a mortgage loan to buy a house. Wise buyers include a mortgage loan contingency clause in the sales contract with the seller to protect themselves should they be unable to get...
If you — or a member of your immediate family — are an emergency first responder or a member of the military — you could be eligible for specialized programs aimed at easing the home-buying...
If you’re trying to get a mortgage, you may hear the lender refer to a broker price opinion. Is that the same thing as an appraisal, or a comparative market analysis? Not really. Let’s explore...
Special financial assistance is available for teachers seeking to buy a first home, refinance a home, or even repair an old home or add energy-saving improvements. This help translates to potentially lower closing costs and...
In times of financial distress, some homeowners can seek relief from monthly payments through mortgage forbearance programs. These programs can be helpful during rough times, but they must be handled with care. Let’s take a...
The loan processor you work with when you apply for a mortgage isn’t the person who decides whether you qualify for a loan. That power lies with the mortgage underwriter. How do underwriters decide whether...
The mortgage approval process can be stressful for anyone, but self-employed people encounter an extra measure of scrutiny. You may have succeeded in pursuing the American dream of owning a business only to find that...
It’s a shock when your application for a mortgage is declined. You are excited about owning a home, but the opportunity gets snatched away. What can you do about a mortgage application denial? First things...
For most people, their home is their biggest investment — and their biggest tax benefits. As always, it’s best to consult your tax adviser for specific information, but let’s walk through the most common, basic...
