In real estate, a “hot market” refers to a market with lower inventory and higher demand. When the market is hot, there is more competition for property and this can make buying a home more difficult. If you’re trying to buy a home, here are some tips for how to navigate a hot market. Start With a Broad...

Many financial experts suggest paying a 20% down payment when buying a home. While for some prospective homebuyers this may be a simple task, others might wonder if the suggested 20% of the home purchase price—or higher—are necessary. Here are some reasons it benefits you to make a larger down payment when buying a house: Score Better Mortgage...

Image by Pete Linforth from Pixabay Property buyers today may think of a credit union as an alternative form of lending and ultimately meant for people who don't fit the stereotypical borrower. But this assumption may a little unfair once you learn the facts. Credit unions present several unique opportunities that you simply won't find anywhere else. We'll...

Image by Jojje from Shutterstock Many people own homes through a mortgage agreement. Traditional mortgages are primarily fully amortized or gradually paid off with regular payments over the lifetime of the loan. Each payment contributes to both the principal and the interest. A balloon mortgage is a short-term home loan with fixed-rate monthly payments that only take care...

Photo by SHOP SLO® on Unsplash Selling a home requires a lot of decision-making. One of those decisions concerns financing, and there are numerous options available to both sellers and buyers. Real estate negotiations can be confusing, but there are some unconventional ways to finance a deal, and owner financing, for some buyers and sellers, can be the...

Image by Nattanan Kanchanaprat from Pixabay Preparing to purchase a home? It’s time to get your finances in order. Although this is an exciting time, you’d be surprised to learn how much a new home purchase can leave you strapped for cash. Saving for your home can get you prepared to have money for your down payment and...