Mortgage escrow accounts hold funds for property taxes and home insurance, ensuring timely payments and reducing default risk. FHA loans require escrow, while conventional loans may allow waivers based on financial stability and loan terms. Escrow offers payment regularity but typically earns little interest, except in some states. Deciding on escrow depends on loan type, financial habits, lender...
Before house hunting, get prequalified or pre-approved for a mortgage to know your budget. Shop around for lenders to find the best rates. Prioritize location based on your lifestyle and future needs. Choose an experienced real estate agent, ask plenty of questions, and avoid fixer-uppers unless ready for renovations. Take your time, get a home inspection, negotiate wisely, plan your move, and save for...
Start with strong finances: lenders prefer credit scores 620+ and debt-to-income ratios under 36%. Save for upfront costs: 3–20% down payment plus 3–6% closing costs. Get mortgage pre-approval to confirm borrowing power and strengthen your home purchase offer. Choose wisely: compare loan types, interest rates, and 15–30 year repayment terms. Close the...
Mortgage market evolves with tech innovation, affordability challenges, and strategic shifts shaping 2025–2030. Short term: rates hover 6–7%, FHA/VA loans with 3–5% down remain key. Long term: AI-driven underwriting, inclusive credit models, and zero-deposit mortgages expand access. Industry pivots: digital platforms, buyer incentives, and renovation...
Economic development is driving housing trends in key U.S. states. Nevada's diversified economy fuels luxury and sustainable communities, especially in Henderson. Texas sees booming demand from corporate relocations in cities like Austin and Dallas. Florida attracts international luxury buyers in Miami and growing family housing in Tampa. North Carolina's Research Triangle spurs tech-driven...
Lowering your mortgage payment can significantly ease financial burdens, allowing for better management of expenses and savings. Refinancing is a key strategy, especially with current low rates, but lenders are tightening qualifying standards. Options include cash-out refinancing, extending loan terms, or removing private mortgage insurance (PMI). Homeowners can also appeal tax assessments, reduce...
Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates, recognizes, and honors the beautiful traditions and cultures of the Indigenous People We take a stand for and support the indigenous people on this day. We should also offer our support to those who invest and uplift the indigenous communities....
Southern Nevada resale homes on market ↑ 37% in August 2025, signaling rising competition for buyers. Despite more inventory, median sale prices declined slightly compared to previous months. High construction and labor costs keep new home prices elevated, limiting affordability for local buyers. Builders face land constraints, preventing significant new home...
Forecasts point to mild price appreciation as tourism-linked jobs and relocation demand support housing needs. Sales volumes should recover slowly as new construction and resales rebalance inventory. Suburban master-planned communities and affordable single-family segments expected to outperform condos. Overall: measured recovery with regionally driven...
Selling a home can be emotionally taxing and time-consuming. To navigate the process effectively, sellers should focus on the business aspect, consider hiring an agent, set a realistic price, and prepare their home for sale. Key mistakes to avoid include getting overly emotional, not hiring an agent, setting an unrealistic price, and neglecting proper staging and photography. Additionally, sellers should...