Financial Planning

06

Dec

Home Buyer Tips

Steps to Prepare for Future Real Estate Purchases

As the year comes to a close, it’s the ideal time to take a step back and assess your financial situation, especially if you're planning to buy real estate in the coming year. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, looking for an investment property, or aiming to upgrade, being financially prepared can make all the difference. 1. Review Your Credit Score Your credit score is a key factor in determining whether you’ll be approved for financing and what kind of interest rate you will receive. Obtain your credit report from the three major bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Check for errors, and…

21

Aug

By Lori Blank

Home Mortgage Tips

Managing Your Debt During the Homebuying Process: A Guide for Homebuyers

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting milestone, but it also requires careful financial planning. One crucial aspect is managing your debt effectively. I want to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to navigate this process smoothly. Let's discuss some essential strategies for managing your debt while purchasing a home. Understand Your Debt-to-Income Ratio Firstly, it's essential to understand your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. This ratio compares your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income and is a critical factor lenders consider when approving a mortgage. A lower DTI ratio indicates you have a healthy balance between…

12

Jun

By Lori Blank

Selling Your Home

Signs That You Should Sell Your Home Soon: How to Know When It’s Time

Deciding when to sell your home can be a daunting task. The housing market is unpredictable, and personal circumstances can add layers of complexity to the decision. If you’re contemplating selling your home but aren't sure if the timing is right, here are some signs to help guide your decision. 1. Market Conditions are Favorable One of the most compelling reasons to sell your home is favorable market conditions. Keep an eye on local real estate trends, such as rising home prices and low inventory. When demand is high and supply is low, sellers often have the upper hand, which…

25

Feb

By Lori Blank

Real Estate

Eliminate These 5 Barriers To Saving For Your Down Payment This Month!

With all the expenses that go into monthly living and the temptations that come along with life, saving money for the down payment on your new home can be quite a struggle for many people. If you're having a hard time saving and are wondering what you can do to ensure a higher bank balance next month, here are a few things that may pose a risk to getting the home of your dreams. Forgetting To Take Lunch One of the things most likely to defeat your bank balance is the daily office trip to the deli or diner. Instead…