13 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Components of Your Monthly Mortgage Payment

Mortgage
If you’re new to homeownership, you might be wondering exactly what makes up the mortgage payment you’re sending each month. Beyond just the loan amount itself, there are several different components that all factor into your monthly mortgage payment. Understanding these components not only helps you see where your money is going but can also assist you in optimizing your mortgage and possibly securing a better rate. 1. Principal The principal is the amount of money you originally borrowed to purchase the home. It represents the bulk of your loan balance and is paid down over the term of your…
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01 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Can You Refinance a Reverse Mortgage Loan?

Mortgage
If you have a reverse mortgage loan, you might be curious about your options for refinancing. The good news is that yes, you can refinance a reverse mortgage, and doing so may offer several benefits depending on your unique financial situation. We will provide a detailed overview of refinancing a reverse mortgage, including reasons to consider it, eligibility requirements, costs, and important considerations. 1. Why Refinance a Reverse Mortgage? Homeowners often choose to refinance their reverse mortgage loans for various reasons, primarily centered around financial flexibility and accessing more equity. Here are some common motivations: Accessing More Equity: If the…
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29 Oct 2024
By Tawnya King

What is the Difference Between a Reverse Mortgage and a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage?

Mortgage
Retirement planning is about ensuring you have a steady income stream to support yourself comfortably. For many retirees, tapping into the equity in their homes becomes an attractive option. Two terms often come up in this context: reverse mortgage and Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). Although they are related, there are some critical differences between them. Understanding these options can help you make an informed decision about what suits your financial needs. What is a Reverse Mortgage? A reverse mortgage allows homeowners to access the equity in their home and convert it into cash without selling their property. It’s often…
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15 Oct 2024
By Tawnya King

Where Does the Money for Your Mortgage Loan Really Come From?

Mortgage
If you're considering a mortgage loan, you might wonder where the money actually comes from. It’s not as simple as walking into your neighborhood bank and getting a loan directly from their vault, like it used to be decades ago. Today, the mortgage lending process is part of a larger, more complex system involving major institutions like Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae. Let’s take a closer look at how it all works. The Big Players: Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae In today’s mortgage industry, most of the money for home loans originates from three major government-sponsored…
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03 Oct 2024
By Tawnya King

Do VA Entitlements Ever Expire?

Mortgage
The VA home loan program is one of the most valuable benefits offered to those who have served in the U.S. military, providing veterans and active-duty personnel with access to favorable mortgage terms. One common question is whether these VA entitlements ever expire. What is VA Home Loan Entitlement? VA home loan entitlement refers to the amount the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to a lender if the borrower defaults on the loan. This guarantee significantly reduces the lender’s risk, which allows veterans to access zero down payments and lower interest rates. The VA doesn’t issue the mortgage itself but…
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27 Sep 2024
By Tawnya King

VA vs FHA vs USDA What’s the Difference?

Mortgage
You may have more options than you think when it comes to securing a mortgage for your new home. While many buyers opt for conventional financing, another option or program might be a better choice for you, depending on your personal and financial situation. Learning more about FHA, USDA, and VA loans ensures you get the best possible deal for your mortgage and that you secure the loan that you need for your new home. Here’s what you need to know about these useful mortgage options. FHA LoansThese are traditional mortgages that are backed by the FHA: when you take…
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26 Sep 2024
By Tawnya King

An Overview Of Umbrella Insurance: How It Works

Mortgage
Accidents can happen from time to time, which is why it is important for people to have insurance. While you might be able to fix some accidents on your own, others can lead to a significant amount of financial stress. This is why people must have insurance. Insurance is supposed to help individuals and families pay for catastrophic expenses; however, what happens if the insurance policy is not big enough to cover the expenses? That is where umbrella insurance can be helpful. What is umbrella insurance, and how does it work? Learn more about how umbrella insurance might be able…
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