In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we uncover the diverse world of mortgage products beyond the 30-year fixed rate. From Fannie Mae to FHA and VA loans, discover options for first-time buyers, low credit borrowers, and more. Learn about down payment assistance and why working with a loan officer is key to finding the …
Author: I Am Benchmark
Why insurance is so expensive now.
The insurance industry has experienced significant changes over recent years, with homeowner’s and auto insurance rates increasing rapidly. The reasons behind these trends are numerous, involving a combination of economic, environmental, and market-driven factors. Homeowner’s insurance on the rise Homeowner’s insurance rates have risen notably, driven by several unrelated critical factors: Accelerating auto insurance premiums …
Episode 2: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Home This Year
Listen to Episode 2: In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we explore the top questions about the process of homeownership and practical steps to help get you there! Watch Episode 2 on YouTube: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Home This Year | On The House Podcast Host: Jason Haeger – …
Episode 1: Was It A Mistake Buying a House in 2023?
In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we explore the impact of high-interest rates and challenges faced in 2023, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before making housing decisions. Additionally, we delve into predictions for 2024, including forecasts for home sales, mortgage rates, and property values from industry experts. Want to see if homeownership is …
Mortgage Rates Are Dropping. What Does That Mean for You?
Mortgage rates have been a hot topic in the housing market over the past 12 months. Compared to the beginning of 2022, rates have risen dramatically. Now they’re dropping, and that has to do with everything happening in the economy. Nadia Evangelou, Senior Economist and Director of Forecasting at the National Association of Realtors …
Is a HELOC a good financial choice?
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is an easy way to borrow money using your home’s value as collateral. Let’s look into how a HELOC works and whether this option is right for you. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) works much like a credit card. With money drawn from a HELOC, you …
Is a HELOC a good financial choice?
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is an easy way to borrow money using your home’s value as collateral. Let’s look into how a HELOC works and whether this option is right for you. How Much Can You Borrow with a HELOC? The first step in deciding if a HELOC is right for you …
VA Loan: National Guard VA Loan qualifications 2022 update
Featured photo credit: https://www.nationalguard.com/careers/ground-forces Photo credit: https://www.nationalguard.com/careers/ground-forces The VA loan is one of the most powerful home buying tools available to those who qualify. A few benefits of the VA home loan are an option for ZERO down payment, no Private Mortgage Insurance, and lenient credit qualifications. There are specific criteria to qualify for the …
Prepare Your Home for Fall
The resurgence of everything pumpkin spice means that fall is upon us once again. You are probably as excited to pull out that box of fall décor as we are. If you live in a building (a house, duplex, apartment, condo, etc..) then there are some other important tasks that should be added to your …
Is waiting for lower interest rates a mistake?
With mortgage interest rates at a level not seen for over a decade (see chart below), the question of whether to wait for interest rates to fall is creeping in. This is not unreasonable, however, it does beg the question. Are rates actually high? If you take a look at the chart below, you can …