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If you’re planning to buy a home, you may be wondering whether your credit score is high enough to qualify for a mortgage. The good news? You don’t necessarily need perfect credit to become a homeowner. While your credit score plays an important role in the mortgage approval process, it’s only one part of your […]

When you’re saving to buy a home, the down payment tends to get most of the attention. But there’s another expense homebuyers should plan for: closing costs. If you’ve been wondering what closing costs are, how much they cost, or what you’re actually paying for, you’re not alone. Understanding mortgage closing costs ahead of time […]

Over the last three years, First Home Mortgage’s First Home Heroes program has helped finance more than 270 homes totaling over $105 million for the people who serve our communities. Through the program, First Home has also waived more than $500,000 in eligible First Home Mortgage fees, helping reduce upfront costs for qualifying educators, first […]

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, but it doesn’t have to mean coming up with a large down payment on your own. If you’re purchasing a home in Prince George’s County, you may qualify for one of several assistance programs designed to make homeownership more affordable. Whether you’re buying […]

VA Loans vs. Conventional Loans: Separating Fact from Fiction When it comes to purchasing a home, many buyers and even some real estate professionals assume that a conventional loan is always the stronger financing option. One loan program that is often misunderstood is the VA loan. The truth is that VA loans can be an […]

VA loans are one of the most powerful benefits available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and certain surviving spouses. They offer flexible qualification guidelines, competitive rates, and often require little to no down payment. But one part of the VA loan that often causes confusion is the funding fee. Many people assume it applies […]

For those who have served, the VA loan is more than just another financing option. It is one of the most powerful and flexible paths to homeownership available today. Yet many eligible buyers don’t fully understand how impactful this benefit can be. What Makes a VA Loan Different? VA loans were designed to remove some […]

There is a lot happening in the global economy, and several key factors are influencing interest rates and the housing market. Here is a simple breakdown of what to know. Global Conflict and Oil Prices The conflict involving Iran is currently the biggest focus for investors. The main concern is not just oil production, but […]

Choosing between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is one of the most important decisions Maryland buyers will make in 2025. The right choice depends on your financial goals, how long you plan to stay in the home, and where the market is headed. Let’s break it down. What’s a Fixed-Rate Mortgage? A […]

Even savvy homebuyers can fall into traps that cost time, money, and sometimes their dream home. Maryland’s housing market moves quickly, and choosing the wrong lender can create avoidable setbacks. Here are the top mistakes we see — and how to avoid them. 1. Chasing the Lowest Advertised Rate Online rates rarely reflect your actual […]

A mortgage loan officer plays a much bigger role than processing paperwork. Behind the scenes, they act as an advocate, strategist, market analyst, and guide through one of the largest financial decisions most people ever make. Here’s what Maryland homebuyers should know. The Real Role of a Loan Officer A strong mortgage loan officer: Reviews […]