December 2025

How To Decide The Length Of Your Mortgage

When choosing a mortgage, consider the loan length alongside interest rates, monthly payments, and your budget. Shorter loans typically have lower interest rates but higher monthly payments, which can be burdensome. A longer mortgage may allow for a more expensive home but results in more interest paid over time. Your plans for how long you'll stay in the home and your income flexibility also...

How to Shop Around for a Mortgage Loan

When choosing a mortgage, borrowers often overlook comparison shopping, which can significantly impact costs over time. A Bankrate survey revealed that 12% of millennials felt their mortgage rates were too high. To find the best lenders, consider referrals from trusted locals, online reviews, and advice from real estate agents. During meetings with loan officers, ask about their processes, communication...

How to Use a HELOC to Pay Off Your Mortgage

Using a HELOC to pay off a mortgage can free up cash and potentially reduce interest costs if rates are lower than your current mortgage. It requires good credit, sufficient home equity, and a low debt-to-income ratio. HELOCs offer flexibility but have variable rates and risks like foreclosure if unpaid. Alternatives include making extra payments, home equity loans, refinancing, or reverse mortgages for...

Southern Nevada Homes Hit Record Prices in Late-Fall | Carol Strom broker, owner, UNLV Real Estate Finance Degree #B145311

Southern Nevada median single-family home price reached a record $488,995 in November 2025. Condo and townhome median prices hit $303,750, up 0.8% year-over-year but below October peak. November 2025 saw 1,918 homes sold, with single-family sales down 6.6%. Housing inventory rose to 7,033 homes and 2,613 condos, creating five months supply. Lower mortgage rates...

When to Refinance Your Mortgage

Refinancing a mortgage involves replacing an existing loan with a new one, often to secure a lower interest rate, shorten the loan term, or access home equity. Homeowners should consider factors like home equity, credit history, and refinancing costs before proceeding. A lower interest rate can significantly reduce monthly payments, while cash-out refinancing allows access to equity for various expenses....

Refinancing Tips

Refinancing can be intimidating, but it's worth considering due to potential savings. Key tips include evaluating how long you plan to stay in your home, as refinancing may not always save money long-term due to fees and interest rates. Understand any penalties for early loan payoff and ensure your refinance rates account for these. Additionally, check your credit score before applying, as a higher...

Southern Nevada Homes Hit Record Prices in Late-Fall | #CarolStrom #Nevada #Financedegree #Realtor #ListingAgent $3,500, #BuyersAgent $1,500 #showing or BPO $49

Southern Nevada median single-family home price reached a record $488,995 in November 2025. Condo and townhome median prices hit $303,750, up 0.8% year-over-year but below October peak. November 2025 saw 1,918 homes sold, with single-family sales down 6.6%. Housing inventory rose to 7,033 homes and 2,613 condos, creating five months supply. Lower mortgage rates...

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