When taking out a mortgage loan, there are several different categories that the loan falls under, depending on what you intend to do with the home understanding the mortgage process will help you navigate the purchase of your second home or investment property easier. For a home that you intend to live in as your…
The Cost to Refinance My Mortgage The cost to refinance a mortgage depends on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to the loan program, loan amount, loan term, location of the home, credit score, loan-to-value, debt-to-income, and current market conditions. So, when you ask yourself “should I refinance my mortgage?”, you will…
Mortgage loans are divided into two categories: Conforming Loans and Non-Conforming Loans. Below, we will highlight the features and benefits of each one, how they relate to each other, and the different options available to home buyers. Non-Conforming vs. Conforming Loans What is a Non-Conforming Loan? A non-conforming mortgage loan is one that does not…
USDA home loans are a great option for both first-time, and experienced home-buyers. They do not require a down payment, making them an attractive option to some home-buyers. The property must be located in a “rural” area, and there are income limits based on your household size as well. Below, we will outline the steps…
“The market is great right now…” is something you might hear every real estate agent saying lately. In fact, you could probably go back to the archives of 2008 when the market crashed and find advertising that echoes something similar. The phrase is used so often, it’s hard to know when it’s actually true. Right now,…
If you are wanting to buy a home, and already own one, there are different rules, requirements, and restrictions that are in place for each kind of loan program. Read on to find out the ins and outs of owning multiple homes for conventional, FHA, USDA, and VA home loans. Conventional Home Loans If you…
There are several components to a mortgage that allow for mortgage interest tax deductions to qualify. Some people can qualify for all of them, while others only use one or two. Either way, they save you money on your total tax liability. The most common mortgage tax deduction is the interest you paid on the…
Veterans, we are eternally grateful for the sacrifices you have made for our country. While there is nothing we can do to adequately thank you for your service, we can offer guidance and assistance during your homebuying process. We are here to help you navigate VA loans and get the keys of your dream home…
When you are buying your first home, there are many areas of lending and the home buying process that you will want to be informed about. Educating yourself is the first step to knowing that you are getting the best deal. 1. Down Payment Assistance Programs – MHDC, Chenoa, City Grants, etc. a. These…
Saving for a downpayment is often the most daunting part of the homebuying process. Having enough cash to put 20% down may seem out of reach, but don’t let that high number discourage you from becoming a homeowner. Despite what many people say, you don’t have to put 20% down to get the keys to a house.…
Many people are unaware of the U.S. Department of Agriculture mortgage program. USDA home loans don’t require down payments and are available for eligible rural and suburban homebuyers. Read on to see if this program would be a good fit for you and your household. What are the USDA income limits? USDA loans are made…
The Federal Housing Administration (also known as FHA) requires only a minimum credit score of 500, while also allowing borrowers a down payment as low as 3.5%. FHA loans will also allow a zero-credit score by supplementing with non-traditional credit. With the options offered by FHA, this is a common loan program often utilized by…
Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you aren’t familiar with industry jargon. Two terms that are often thrown around are adjustable-rate mortgages, or ARMs, and fixed-rate mortgages. Understanding the differences between these two types of mortgages will make you feel more comfortable and confident with the application process. They may…
When people think about buying a home, they likely envision attending open houses and picking out new paint colors, not securing a mortgage. While getting a mortgage isn’t as glamorous as other aspects of buying a home, it is arguably the most important step in the process. Without a mortgage, most people wouldn’t have a…
Columbia, Missouri has a way of winning people over. With three colleges, a lively downtown and plenty of beautiful outdoor areas, there’s always something new and exciting happening in Columbia. USA Mortgage is a premium relocation lender in Columbia, and we love introducing new residents to the area. If you’re planning to relocate to our…
Are you thinking about purchasing your first home? If so, congratulations! Homeownership is a wonderful experience, and the road to buying your first house is an exciting one. It’s likely different from any purchase you’ve made in the past, so it’s important to be prepared for the unique process. Below are my top four pieces…
