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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. Closings can be stressful.

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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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How Much House Can I Afford If I Make $70,000 a Year?

HomeLight

But let’s say you make $70,000 per year (a little less than the 2021 median household income of $79,900, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), is it worth it to buy a home ? Not to mention, you’ll also need to put some of those savings toward the home inspection , appraisal , and closing costs.

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Today’s Mortgage Rates April 4, 2025: Rates Go Down After Tariffs Imposed

Marco Santarelli

Understanding Mortgage Rate Trends The reduction in mortgage rates on April 4, 2025, can be traced back to developments in the financial sector. Personal Financial Profile : Individual borrowers can influence their rates based on their credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and the size of their down payments.

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Mortgage Rate Predictions for This Week: Will Rates Drop?

Marco Santarelli

I've seen first-hand how events, from policy announcements to global trade developments, can send ripples through the market. Determine your debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Divide your total monthly debt payments by your gross monthly income. as per Bankrate data. Lenders typically prefer a DTI of 43% or less.

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30-Year Mortgage Rates Rise to Highest Point in Over a Year

Marco Santarelli

It's more crucial than ever to get quotes from multiple lenders and compare not just the interest rate but also fees and closing costs. Strengthen Your Financial Profile: Improving your credit score and reducing your debt-to-income ratio can help you qualify for better interest rates.

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Am I A First-Time Homebuyer? Who’s Qualified … And Who Isn’t

HomeLight

USDA Rural Development loans also allow for 100% financing (or 0% down). Don’t let the name fool you: areas designated for Rural Development loans can be closer to cities than you might expect. Wantland wants buyers to know: “there are some programs, like the USDA loan , that allow you to tie closing costs into the loan.”