Many of us are planning to spend less on gifts this year, as inflation and tariffs have affected prices. If you're determined to stick to a budget but don't want to disappoint anyone on your gift list, consider these strategies.
The current decrease in interest rates is making headlines this month, although it's partially driven by less positive factors such as fewer employment opportunities. Even before the Federal Reserve announced a quarter-point rate cut, demand for mortgage refinancing rose. In addition to rate-term refinancing, over 10% of refinancing applicants decided to switch to an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to talk about something that affects every homebuyer: protecting your personal information during one of the biggest financial transactions of your life.
For many homebuyers, the path to homeownership follows a traditional route: W-2 income, strong credit, and a standard debt-to-income ratio. But today’s borrowers don’t always fit that mold. Entrepreneurs, investors, self-employed professionals, and those with unique financial situations often need alternative solutions. That’s where non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) home loans come in.
A few years ago, we witnessed the Great Resignation, when record numbers of people quit their jobs. Next, the Great Reshuffle saw millions of workers find new career opportunities. Now, we have...Job-Hugging?
Last month, many countries began to feel the impact of tariffs introduced earlier this year, leaving many of us waiting to see if the pricing on certain products would change. As of this time, tariffs ran from 10% for the United Kingdom to 50% for Brazil. However, these are subject to change, including the tariffs between China/United States. A recent truce between the countries means the U.S. will keep its standard tariff rate on Chinese goods at 30% while China maintains a 10% rate on American goods.
You own your primary residence, but you’re thinking about buying a second home or possibly an investment property. Congrats! Being in a financial position to make that kind of real estate investment is a major accomplishment, and you should be proud of that.
Buying an investment property can be one of the keys to financial freedom and long-term wealth. Whether you want to enjoy rental income, tax benefits, or both, owning rental properties can help you achieve your goals quickly.
Those hoping that inflation would continue to wane were disappointed when June's Consumer Price Index (CPI) came in at 0.3%, putting the 12-month inflation rate at 2.7%. This resulted in pressure being put on Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell to cut interest rates, even though economists warned this could accelerate inflation and cause stock markets to falter. Ultimately, Powell did not cut rates, which left mortgage rates flat. However, homeowners may be in for some attractive tax savings because of provisions within H.R. 1, aka the Big Beautiful Bill.
Retirement should be your time to relax and enjoy life. But if you’re like many American seniors today, you might be feeling the pinch of rising costs. Healthcare expenses that seem to climb every year and inflation eating into your fixed income can be a lot to manage.
What if you could buy your dream retirement home without monthly mortgage payments?
If you’re 62 or older and thinking about making a move, traditional mortgage loans might feel overwhelming. The thought of taking on new monthly payments in retirement can be stressful, especially when you’re living on a fixed income.
Owning a home has always come with benefits—both emotional and financial. But the 2025 tax changes for homeowners are giving buyers, longtime homeowners, and investors more reasons to celebrate.
While Americans haven't lost interest in the traditional summer vacation, fewer are planning to fly to exotic locales this year. Instead, road trips are becoming more popular, especially as fuel prices are easing and more of us are charging our vehicles.
Buying a new home while still owning your current one can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating, upgrading, or simply found your dream home sooner than expected, there are strategic ways to make it happen without having to sell first.
Your home is more than a property. It’s where birthday candles were blown out and holiday memories were made. When it’s time to sell, you want the full value of your home.
It's time for many Americans to decide on their vacation destinations, although fewer are headed to expensive, exotic destinations than in 2024. Consumers are concerned about continued economic volatility and possible overseas conflicts. However, would-be homebuyers are enjoying an increasing number of properties to choose from, as more sellers are entering the market and even lowering their asking prices.
Are you dreaming of moving into a new home or condo that better fits your lifestyle but don’t know how you can confidently buy a new home while selling the one you’re in?
If you’re in need of cash but already have a killer rate on your first mortgage, and you don’t want to pay the high interest rates associated with a credit card, then a home equity line of credit—HELOC for short—may be the perfect solution. HELOCs work by utilizing the equity in your home. You’ve worked hard and consistently made your monthly payment, so why not let all the equity you’ve built up in your home now work for you?
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