05 Feb 2026
By Tawnya King

What Homebuyers Need to Know About Mortgage Interest Rates and APR

Home Buyer Tips
When applying for a mortgage, borrowers are often presented with several important numbers that determine the true cost of the loan. Two of the most discussed figures are the mortgage interest rate and the annual percentage rate, also known as APR. While these terms are closely related, they are not the same. Understanding the distinction between interest rate and APR is essential for comparing loan offers accurately and making informed financial decisions. What a Mortgage Interest Rate RepresentsThe mortgage interest rate is the percentage a lender charges for borrowing money. This rate is applied directly to the loan principal and…
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04 Feb 2026
By Tawnya King

What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know About Mortgage Origination Fees

Mortgage
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important financial details that can feel overwhelming. Along with your down payment and monthly mortgage payment, there are upfront costs that every buyer should understand before closing. One fee that often raises questions is the mortgage loan origination fee. Knowing what this fee covers and how it affects your overall loan costs can help you feel more confident throughout the mortgage process. What Is a Mortgage Loan Origination FeeA mortgage loan origination fee is an upfront charge from a lender for processing and underwriting your mortgage application. This…
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12 Apr 2024
By Tawnya King

Find Something Wrong During a Home Inspection? How to Discuss Repairs or Defects with a Seller

Home Buyer Tips
When it comes to selling a home, it is a common belief that once the offer is accepted, there is nothing else to be negotiated. However, issues and obstacles that can arise during the home inspection can be a cause for discussion with the seller. Whether you're currently searching for houses or your offer has already been accepted and you're preparing for the next step, here are some tips in the event that the home inspection isn't up to par. Be Cautious About What You Say Without a doubt, anything that you discuss with the real estate agent regarding the…
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31 Jan 2024
By Tawnya King

First Things First, What To Do Upon Moving Into Your New Home

Home Buyer Tips
If you have purchased a new home and are going to move in soon, what are the first few things that you will need to do upon moving into your new home? Moving can be very stressful, but having a checklist can make your move to a new home effortless. Here are 6 easy steps that can eliminate any frustration and help you feel safe and secure:  Change Your AddressYou will need to change your address for all magazine subscriptions, bills, and other services. You can update your mailing address online or visit your local post office to find out…
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26 Jan 2024
By Tawnya King

Are You Ready for Home Ownership? Find Out by Answering These 4 Questions

Home Buyer Tips
Do you ever dream about a larger, roomier, or more luxurious living space? Or perhaps just want to experience the joy of owning your own home and building your net worth instead of renting? Let's explore a few questions that can help to answer whether or not you're ready for a new lifestyle as a homeowner. Can You Realistically Afford To Buy A Home? The first consideration to make is a financial one: can you afford it? Buying a home is a significant financial investment. In most cases, you'll need to manage monthly mortgage payments for many years. The good…
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08 Jun 2023
By Tawnya King

Buying in a New Community: How to Meet and Make Friends with Your New Neighbors

Home Buyer Tips
One of the stresses of moving to a new area is giving up the familiarity that you have with your old neighbors and starting from scratch. Whether you've just moved to a different locale or you're planning to relocate in the near future, there are some easy ways that you can make a home of your new neighborhood right from the start. Stand Up and Smile While there are neighborhoods where people are definitely friendlier than others, by making your presence positively known you can make an instant impression on those that live around you. When you're walking around the…
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12 Apr 2023
By Tawnya King

How Young Is ‘Too Young’ to Buy Your First Home? Getting Started Early Has Its Ups and Downs

Home Buyer Tips
Many millennials are expected to enter the housing market in the next year with the interest rates still low. However, while it may be a good time, it does not necessarily mean that it's the right time for you to make the investment. If you're currently weighing your options when it comes to home ownership, here are some things to consider before you decide put the money down. Are You Struggling With Student Debt It's possible to invest in a home when you're still paying down student debt, but if you're also struggling with a low-paying job and a high…
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