Mortgage Rate Relief in 2024: A Welcome Change for Homebuyers Mortgage rates are expected to stabilize and even decrease slightly in 2024 after a period of volatility. While they won’t return to the historic lows we saw in 2021, the decline from their 2023 peaks may open up new possibilities for buyers who have been […]
Are Home Warranties Worth It or Just a Scam?
Are Home Warranties Worth It or Just a Scam? Ever wondered if a home warranty is truly worth the cost, or if it’s just another scam? The answer isn’t as clear-cut as you might think. Home warranties are often marketed as a safety net for homeowners, offering protection against unexpected repairs. However, it’s important to […]
Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment to Get a Mortgage?
Do You Really Need a 20% Down Payment to Get a Mortgage? Are you holding off on buying a home because you think you need a 20% down payment? You might be pleasantly surprised! Many potential homebuyers believe that a hefty 20% down payment is a necessity to secure a mortgage. However, this isn’t always […]
How to Get Your PMI Canceled
How to Get Your PMI Canceled When you take out a conventional mortgage loan (not insured by the U.S. government), with a down payment of less than 20%, your lender will require that you pay monthly private mortgage insurance (PMI) which protects the lender in case you default. PMI costs can vary between 0.58% and […]
Overview of Common Homeownership Costs
Overview of Common Homeownership Costs Navigating the complexities of buying or selling a home can be daunting—especially when it comes to understanding the true costs involved. As an award-winning realtor serving the vibrant communities of Auburn and Opelika, AL, I’m excited to launch a comprehensive series designed to demystify the financial aspects of homeownership. What […]
Navigating Home Ownership Costs: Understanding Down Payments and More
Navigating Home Ownership Costs: Understanding Down Payments and More Embarking on the journey to homeownership involves understanding the financial landscape, and one of the crucial aspects is the down payment. As a seasoned realtor, I’m here to demystify this vital component and guide you through the process. A down payment is a lump sum payment […]
Unlocking Your Home’s Hidden Value: 5 Ways to Tap into Your Home Equity
Unlocking Your Home’s Hidden Value: 5 Ways to Tap into Your Home Equity Owning a home comes with a unique financial advantage – home equity. This refers to the difference between the current market value of your home and the outstanding balance on your mortgage. Fortunately, there are several ways to tap into this valuable […]