Tag: home buying

Meet Our Newest Agent!

Get in Touch with Cydni! Cydni Potter, Buyer Specialist Cydni spent most of her life in Chicago before moving to Nevada briefly post high school. Wanting to be closer to…

Christmas Tree Farms in Greater Peoria

There’s no midwestern holiday experience more authentic than bracing the chill of winter to pick the perfect pine, spruce or fir. Not to mention, nothing says “happy holidays” more than the natural evergreen scent filling your home throughout the season. Greater Peoria offers plenty of spots ranging from muddy and rustic BYOS (bring your own saw) farms to elaborate, Instagram-worthy holiday backdrops with homemade cookies and hot chocolate. No matter what holiday movie you envision yourself in this season, you’ll enjoy holiday cheer and beautiful scenery while finding your perfect holiday tree.

What Is a FICO Score and How Is It Determined?

Successfully buying a home hinges on a bunch of numbers, from home prices to mortgage rates. And there’s a lesser-known figure that can make all the difference when realizing your homeownership dreams: your FICO score. Whenever you want to make a big purchase, like a home, the lender will pull your FICO score, a three-digit number that represents your creditworthiness and is akin to a financial compass in the housing market. This number ranges from 300 to 850 and determines whether you’re approved for a loan, your interest rate, and your mortgage terms.

Can I Buy a House With Student Loan Debt?

Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get a mortgage with student loans will depend on the amount of debt you have and what your personal financial situation looks like, including factors like your income, savings and credit score.

How To Get a Loan for a New-Construction Home: What Homebuyers Need To Know

If you’re thinking of buying a brand-new home, you might be wondering if securing a mortgage will differ from one for a previously owned property. While much of the financing works the same for homes both new and old, there are a few subtle differences when you purchase new construction. Specifically, there are a few extra steps required to lock down a loan for a new-construction home, making it important for homebuyers to understand what is expected of them—and when. Here’s what you need to know about getting a loan for a new-construction home—as well as what questions to ask—to keep you on the right path all the way to closing.

How VA Loans Can Help Make Homeownership Dreams Come True

For more than 79 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped millions of veterans buy their own homes. If you or someone you care about has served in the military, it’s essential to learn about this program and its advantages. Here are some important things to know about VA loans before you buy a home.

Thinking About Using Your 401(k) To Buy a Home?

Are you dreaming of buying your own home and wondering about how you’ll save for a down payment? You’re not alone. Some people think about tapping into their 401(k) savings to make it happen. But before you decide to dip into your retirement to buy a home, be sure to consider all possible alternatives and talk with a financial expert. Here’s why.

What Are Accessory Dwelling Units and How Can They Benefit You?

Maybe you’re in the market for a home and are having a hard time finding the right one that fits your budget. Or perhaps you’re already a homeowner in need of extra income or a place for loved ones. Whether as a potential homebuyer or a homeowner with changing needs, accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, may be able to help you reach your goals.

What Is Cap Rate in Real Estate? How Much You’ll Earn On an Investment

Cap rate, or capitalization rate, is the ratio of a property’s net income to its purchase price. It’s an essential number for gauging a property’s rental income potential. Many new real estate investors, for instance, assume that as long as their renters are paying more than their mortgage on the property, they’re golden. But that’s not the case. You also have to factor in your investment dollars, taxes, and other variables. That’s what cap rate does in one fell swoop.

Invest in Yourself by Owning a Home

Are you wondering if it makes sense to buy a home right now? While today’s mortgage rates might seem a bit intimidating, here are two compelling reasons why it still may be a good time to become a homeowner.