first time homebuyer
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How Mortgage Rates Are Set: Key Influencing Factors
Understanding the Factors That Influence What You Pay If you’re planning to buy a home or refinance your mortgage, you’ve probably noticed that mortgage rates fluctuate, and often. But how are these rates actually determined? Let’s break down what goes into the calculation of mortgage rates and the major factors that can impact what you…
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Mortgage Points: What They Are and When They Make Sense
When shopping for a mortgage, you may come across the term “mortgage points.” While it may sound like credit card rewards or a game score, mortgage points are actually a powerful financial tool that can save (or cost) you thousands, depending on your situation. In this post, we’ll discuss what mortgage points are, when buying…
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Bay Area Home Buyers: New $200k Down Payment Assistance
If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home in the Bay Area but keep hitting a wall when saving for a down payment, there’s some good news on the horizon. A new down payment assistance program is making it a little easier for first-time buyers to literally get their foot in the door. What’s the…
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How Much Down Payment Do You Really Need to Buy a Home?
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make—and for many people, the most intimidating part is the down payment. You’ve probably heard the old rule that you need to put down 20%. But is that really true? Not exactly. The good news is, there are several types of home loans that…
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Let’s break down PMI and MIP
If you’re looking to buy a home, you’ve probably come across the terms PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance) and MIP (Mortgage Insurance Premium). These are important costs to understand, as they can significantly impact your monthly mortgage payment. Let’s break down what PMI and MIP are, when they apply, and how you can minimize or avoid…
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A Quick Overview of Some Common Loan Options
When it comes to purchasing a home or refinancing an existing mortgage, understanding the various loan options available is crucial. Different loan products cater to different financial situations, credit profiles, and eligibility requirements. Below is an overview of some of the most common loan types: Conventional, FHA, ARM, USDA, and VA loans. 1. Conventional Loans…


