How much cash do I need to buy a house?

March 16, 2011 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

Hint:  it’s not just your down payment!  To prepare for buying a home, you’ll need to save cash for a few parts of the process.
1.  Down Payment
Obviously this is the big one.  How much is appropriate?  Well 20% has been the industry standard for a long time, and it shows a seller you’re not only serious about [...]

Tax Tips for Homeowners Looking Ahead to 2010 Returns

Tax Tips for Homeowners Looking Ahead to 2010 Returns

September 2, 2010 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

From energy tax credits to vacation home deductions, check out these tax tips for homeowners looking ahead to 2010 returns. 
If you believe your real estate assessment is too high, you can always appeal it and possibly save on your property tax bill.  
Tax planning for homeowners should start well in advance of the April 15 filing [...]

What Are Mortgage Points?

August 31, 2010 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

Whether you are thinking about refinancing or getting a mortgage for the first time, whether or not to opt for points can be a confusing and sticky decision. Here is a quick explanation of points and some general guidelines about whether or not it is worth paying down points to get a lower interest rate.
What [...]

Are you paying the mortgage but not on title?

Are you paying the mortgage but not on title?

July 8, 2010 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

Being on one does not mean you’re on the other! Just because you are contributing to the mortgage payments does not necessarily mean you have legal claim to the property.
I have heard too many times of spouses contributing to a mortgage payments, home remodels and repairs but never taking the time to get their name on the property title [...]

Budgeting to Buy a House

Budgeting to Buy a House

June 30, 2010 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

One of my favorite lenders, Julie Jones, recommended a new website to me yesterday that I instantly fell in love with!  Www.mint.com is a one-stop place to organize all your accounts, budget, and track your investments and net worth.  For those less trusting of the internet, it’s probably not for you.  However, I found it very [...]

April 2, 2010 by Erin Schedler · Leave a Comment 

RESPA Rules Limit Fee Increases at Home Closing
A revamped good faith estimate and HUD-1 settlement form mean fewer last-minute surprises at closing because of limits on fee increases.Thanks to new RESPA rules, lenders and mortgage brokers have to give borrowers a good faith estimate that outlines key loan terms and fees.  
Homeowners in the market to [...]