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Lenders: Looking to simplify closings? Work with an insurance agency

Housing Wire

HousingWire recently spoke to Tom Kriby, vice president of client development and partnerships at Westwood Insurance Agency, about how working with an insurance agency can simplify the closing process for their customers, even in times of interest rate uncertainty. HW: How does working with an insurance agency simplify the closing process?

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NewRez now offers Freddie Mac’s revamped downpayment assistance program

Housing Wire

Mortgage lender and servicer NewRez on Monday launched a special purpose credit program through Freddie Mac that will provide $3,000 or more in closing cost assistance to qualifying first-time homebuyers. “With BorrowSmart Access, we’re delivering on that mission by providing ways to reduce cost in the homebuying process.”

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5 tips for finding the right mortgage lender for you

Housing Wire

To find a qualified lender, you need a good credit score and a good debt-to-income ratio, which is the percentage of a consumer’s monthly gross income that goes to paying down debt. Before you start searching for a lender, check your credit score and debt-to-income ratio. Buying a home?

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Should I pay off student loans before buying my first home?

Housing Wire

With these rates, it’s a bit easier to save a down payment , while still paying down debt. With these rates, it’s a bit easier to save a down payment , while still paying down debt. Meaning, you can take longer to pay down your debt (without accumulating a great deal of interest) than you would with credit card debt.

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Tired of renting? 6 signs you’re ready to buy your first home

Housing Wire

Your Income Is Stable. Because of this, today’s lenders are more than willing to work with potential first-time homebuyers who have debt, just as long as their debt-to-income ratio (DTI) isn’t too high. Besides a down payment, you have closing costs which on average run between 2% and 5% of your loan amount.

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Buyer agency: a crucial historical shift in real estate

Housing Wire

Many buyers struggled with the financial burden of covering closing costs , making it difficult or impossible to also cover the compensation for agent representation. Many are already shouldering the burdens of high debt-to-income ratios, mortgage insurance premiums, and elevated interest rates to secure a foothold in homeownership.

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What Is a Home Equity Investment? Unlock Cash With No Monthly Payments

HomeLight

It’s a creative option to battle high interest rates, monthly income limitations, or hurdles like low credit scores and stringent lending criteria. High debt-to-income ratio: Traditional lenders often shy away from borrowers with high debt-to-income ratios. homeowners. How Much Is Your Home Worth Now?

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