Remove Banks Remove Equity Remove Pre-qualification Remove VA loan
article thumbnail

Mastering Mortgage Basics: 10 Key Concepts Every Homebuyer Should Know

Redfin

Government-backed loans, such as FHA or VA loans, provide more flexible qualification criteria and specific benefits. Once the borrower’s equity reaches 20%, PMI can be canceled. These may include proof of income, bank statements, employment verification, credit history, and debt information.

article thumbnail

Buying a House in San Diego? Local Real Estate Agents Share 15 Tips First-Time Buyers Need to Know

Redfin

Get pre-approved for a mortgage My advice to first-time homebuyers is to find a good loan officer and get pre-approved, fully underwritten approval is best. Work with that loan officer and their agent to understand what timeframes they’re comfortable with in an offer.

Insiders

Sign Up for our Newsletter

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

article thumbnail

What Is a HUD Home? Are the Savings Worth the Risks?

HomeLight

Due to the nature of how a home becomes a “HUD home,” purchasing one differs from the traditional homebuying process, and there are a few qualifications, special incentives, and risks that any savvy homebuyer should be aware of. Buyers should arrange financing with a bank or mortgage lender ahead of time. Qualifying for a HUD home.

article thumbnail

42 Steps to Homeownership: The Resourceful Buyer’s Go-To Guide

HomeLight

Are you open to doing some sweat equity in the beginning?” Painting walls and replacing floors can add instant equity to your home — but these jobs require hard work, and they’re not for the buyer who wants a flawless, move-in ready abode. Here’s a quick breakdown: Loan type. Buyers with strong credit and qualifications.

article thumbnail

Looking for a Mortgage Lender? Here Are 19 Questions to Ask Them Before You Commit

HomeLight

Conventional home loans are private loans that aren’t secured by any kind of government program, and these are available through banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. The minimum down payment can be as low as 3%, but that is contingent on the buyer’s qualifications. What about interest rates?

article thumbnail

Home Appraisal Tips for Buyers, Sellers, and Homeowners: Be Prepared for Anything

HomeLight

A property’s appraised value also indicates how much you’ll pay in real estate taxes — and gives you an idea of how any improvements you make can add to your home’s equity. That way, you can have a sense of what a bank appraisal may mark your home’s value. If you have enough equity in the house, a lender may also waive the appraisal.

Loans 103
article thumbnail

131 Real Estate Terms & Definitions Your Clients Expect You to Know in 2023

The Close

It generally results in a higher interest rate or additional points, but it’s a way for homeowners to leverage their equity in a property. It’s an official form certifying that a veteran has met the terms that qualify someone for a VA loan. This is the amount of a property that a person (not the bank) actually owns.