Blog
25,
2017
Although solar power has been around for generations, it was not long ago where the technology was both expensive and inefficient. Early solar panels could only convert a small percentage of solar radiation to energy, and the cost per watt of the technology was well outside of the range necessary to bring about a good […]
21,
2017
When searching for homes, it’s typical to tour many homes (and spend months looking online) before discovering the home you want in your price range. When you finally experience this home in person, you’ll likely feel joy and excitement. After all, this home could be the setting for your next life stage! But before you […]
26,
2017
On June 8, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to a seven month low, and averaged 3.89% for the week. This compares to a March 2017 mortgage rate of 4.3%, and counters early year predictions of rising mortgage rates throughout 2017. Since the 2008 recession, mortgage rates have trended lower As you can see from […]
22,
2017
Having a good credit score is an important part of the mortgage process, and it can save you you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. While you can build a good credit score with a range of strategies, including paying your bills on time and using a secured credit card, all Americans […]
20,
2017
For homebuyers, your mortgage payment is one of several monthly costs you’ll have to pay. Other monthly costs include your property taxes, homeowners insurance, and homeowners association (HOA) fees. On top of these, homeowners can expect a substantial monthly power power bill. In the summer of 2017 alone, the average American household faces a $410 […]
15,
2017
May was another busy month for the mortgage industry. Here are some recent articles, highlights, and homeowner tips: U.S. pending home sales fall; housing market recovery intact Contracts to buy previously owned U.S. homes fell for a second straight month in April amid a supply squeeze. However, the housing market recovery remains supported by a […]
13,
2017
One of the biggest advantages of owning a home is building home equity. Home equity is the current market value of a home minus its outstanding mortgage balance. In simple terms, it’s home ownership that you build by making monthly mortgage payments. Depending on the terms of your mortgage, you’ll usually pay it off in […]
1,
2017
When you commit to buying a home with a mortgage, it’s usually with the plan of paying it off with monthly payments over 15 or 30 years. During this long timeframe, your life circumstances could change, or the economy could change. When either of these occur, you might want to consider refinancing your mortgage. Here […]
25,
2017
As we head towards June, summer is on our doorstep! With weather forecasters predicting a hotter-than-average summer for much of the country, and with the average household facing a $410 monthly electricity bill, lowering your air conditioning (AC) costs can provide major benefits for your finances. Here are some simple strategies to lower your AC […]
18,
2017
For individuals and families considering buying their first home, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and question whether you should keep renting. After all, buying a home commits you to years of monthly home payments (and risk) in an uncertain global economy. Owning a home also provides a long list of benefits, including increased […]
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