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As a prospective homebuyer in today’s market, it’s important to have awareness of the different types of mortgages available in order to determine which is right for you. One particularly important distinction to understand is the difference between fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). In this article, we’ll explore both of these mortgage options and […]

We’re proud to announce the launch of our new First Home Heroes program! We want to recognize the heroes in our communities — including first responders, teachers, and medical professionals — and thank them for everything they have sacrificed to protect us, educate us, and keep us safe and healthy. This new initiative reduces some […]

When buying a home and exploring mortgage options, you’re likely to encounter different agencies you may not be familiar with. What do these mortgage-related agencies do and why are they important? Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are two separate entities that purchase mortgages from banks. Fannie Mae is short for […]

With graduations upon us, graduates past and present are reminded of the price of their education. According to the U.S. Federal Reserve, in 2021 44.7 million Americans have student loan debt and in Maryland, the average balance is $36,689. Many potential homebuyers think with a mound of student debt it will be nearly impossible to […]

When you’re pre-qualified for a home loan or beginning the mortgage application process, there are some actions you should avoid taking. These things could potentially delay your mortgage closing or even put you at risk of not being approved at all. Here are some things to avoid before your loan closes. Avoid Making a Large […]

Your credit score affects more than just your mortgage rate. It also plays a role in how much you will get approved for, what you need to put down, and what you will pay for your private mortgage insurance. While it is not impossible to buy a home with a lower score, you will need […]

There are many mortgage loan types. The one that is best for you is dependent on your particular situation and needs. It’s important to understand what options are available and what makes each one unique. Here are some of the primary mortgage loan types. Conventional Home Loans Conventional home loans are what most often come […]

Buying a home may seem like a daunting process but being prepared can ease your mind. It is important to understand what to expect when preparing to buy a home, and what to expect during the home buying process. Below we’ve provided a short outline of the five main home loan milestones of the home […]

Vacation homes can be a great investment, whether you plan to use them to rent out, for after retirement, or simply to stay in on vacations. Buying a second home is a big decision, and it’s imperative you take the time to consider the various financial and lifestyle implications associated with this big purchase. Here […]

Equity can be defined as the difference between the current market value of a property and the principal balance of all outstanding loans. This is calculated by subtracting your mortgage balance from the market value of your home. Building home equity is important because it can be converted into cash if need be through a […]

Purchasing your first home is an exciting adventure with plenty of benefits. Homeownership can provide valuable tax breaks and offers an opportunity to build equity rather than spending rent money with no potential return. It is also an important personal and long-term financial decision, so it makes sense to prepare ahead of time and be […]