We have just recently added a Mortgage Articles section of the site. Here they are and what they are about:
Will You Buy or Rent Your New House?
• The advantages and disadvantages of owning a home versus renting.
• The costs savings of buying versus renting.
How Much Home Can You Afford to Buy?
• Know how much you can afford before you start looking for a home.
• Why debt ratios are important to lenders?
Know How You Will Fund the Down Payment on Your New Home
• Alternative sources of funding.
• Loan-to-value ratio.
Pre-qualification versus Pre-approval: Know Your Terms Before Looking for a Home
• The difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval.
• Why you should maintain a good FICO score.
Finding the Right Real Estate Agent
• What does a real estate agent do?
• How to pick the right realtor or real estate agent.
Get the Type of Mortgage that is Best For You
• The difference between government and conventional loans.
• How do fixed-rate and adjustable rate mortgages work?
• Lower your payment with an interest-only ARM.
• Which type of loan offers the most costs savings?
• A quick look at sub-prime loans.
Compare the 4 Main Types of Mortgage Lenders
• The difference between banks, mortgage brokers, home builders and Internet lenders.
Buying a Home? Be Prepared for Closing Costs
• How the process works.
• What is Private Mortgage Insurance?
• Should you pay extra for points?
Be a Smart Home Buyer: Use the Internet
• Why use the Internet?
• How to use the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on the Internet.
6 Pitfalls to Avoid When Buying a House
• Tips to make your buying experience a positive one.
Glossary of Mortgage Terms
• Glossary of mortgage terms.