Mortgage Articles

Two people standing in the kitchen of a home for sale with a real estate agent.

Dec. 15, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Here's the Salary It Takes to Buy a Home Today

Buying a home is an expensive prospect. Read on to see how much income you might need.

A woman sitting on the couch catches a water leak with a cooking pot.

Dec. 14, 2023 | By Kristi Waterworth

3 Little-Known Surprises That Can Make or Break a Fixer-Upper Home

Buying a fixer-upper can save you a ton of money, or it can break you slowly. Here are some surprises to be aware of when shopping for a fixer home.

A smiling woman holding a glass of wine while seated on the steps of a patio deck looking at her backyard.

Dec. 14, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

My Household Income Has More Than Doubled Since Buying Our Home. Here's Why We're Staying Put

This writer isn't moving despite being able to take on more housing expenses now than when she bought her home. Find out why.

A couple decides whether to sign a mortgage agreement or not while sitting at a desk in a bank.

Dec. 14, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Make These Moves Now if You're Planning to Sign a Mortgage in 2024

Hoping to finance a home purchase in the new year? Read on for some key moves to make.

Woman writing in notebook at her home desk

Dec. 13, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Will Refinancing Your Mortgage Make Sense in 2024?

For many borrowers, refinancing was a "no" in 2023. Will things be different in 2024? Read on to find out.

Financial advisor meets with a client in their home.

Dec. 12, 2023 | By Ashley Maready

Local or Online Lender: Which Kind of Mortgage Company Is Right for You?

You can get a mortgage loan from many different types of lenders. Learn whether an online lender or a local bank is the best bet to buy a home.

A couple speaking with their realtor while looking around the empty living room of a home.

Dec. 11, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

4 Steps You Can Take to Buy a Home in 2024

Hoping to buy in the new year? Read on for some important moves that could help make that happen.

Two people looking worried while reviewing bills at their kitchen table.

Dec. 10, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

The Average Home Buyer Has Been Putting This Much Down at Closing -- and It's a Problem

Making too small of a down payment could cost you. Read more about it here to find out why.

A couple signing paperwork with a realtor in a new house.

Dec. 9, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Buying a Home in 2024? Here's Why You're Not Doomed

It may not be so easy to buy a home in the new year. But read on to see why it may be more doable than expected.

A couple looking at a home with a realtor.

Dec. 9, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

I Waited on Buying a Vacation Home and Lost Out Big Time. Here's Why

Sometimes, putting off a big purchase means losing out on an opportunity. Read on to learn more.

A person shoveling snow off their sidewalk with their dog next to them.

Dec. 7, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Eager to Buy a Home? 3 Great Reasons to Look During the Winter

Winter isn't the most popular time to buy a home. But here's why you may want to look for one in the January-February time frame.

A young man and woman speaking with their realtor who's holding a tablet in an open house.

Dec. 7, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Mortgage Rates Just Fell to Their Lowest Rate Since August. Should Buyers Pounce?

Mortgage rates have fallen in recent weeks. But should you rush to sign a home loan? Read on to find out.

Two people speaking with a real estate agent while looking at a pool in the backyard of a house.

Dec. 7, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Will Mortgage Rates Fall in 2024? Here's What the Experts Are Saying

Could home buyers get some relief in 2024? Experts aren't so sure. Read on for what we know.

A couple looks at a house with a real estate agent.

Dec. 7, 2023 | By Chris Neiger

Fannie Mae Thinks a Recession Is Coming in 2024. What Does It Mean for Home Sales?

A recession is always coming, it's just a matter of time. Read on to find out what could happen to home sales and interest rates next year.

Real estate agent congratulating a new owner for buying new house

Dec. 6, 2023 | By Emma Newbery

Why Buying a House in 2024 Makes Sense, Even When Rates Are High

The affordability crisis in the housing market can be a significant hurdle for potential home buyers. Discover the reasons to still buy a home next year.

Two people viewing the interior of a house with a realtor.

Dec. 6, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Stats Show the Real Impact of Rising Mortgage Rates on Homeowners

Rising mortgage rates have made homeowners reluctant to sell and have affected the market in several ways. Keep reading to see how.

A family meets with a realtor, who points at paperwork and smiles in a kitchen.

Dec. 6, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Home Prices Rose Almost 5% in October. When Will Those Increases Stop?

Higher home prices continue to cause issues for buyers. Read on to see if the market is likely to improve in 2024.

A mature couple sitting at a kitchen table with papers, a laptop, and a calculator.

Dec. 6, 2023 | By Christy Bieber

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Before You Retire?

Before retiring, it can be smart to pay off your mortgage so you can drop that big expense. Learn why you might not always want to pay off your home loan.

Family talking to realtor by extra modern home.

Dec. 5, 2023 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Good News for Home Buyers: The FHFA Mortgage Limit Is Going Up in 2024

Although mortgage rates remain elevated, the borrowing limits for conforming loans are making it easier to finance a home purchase. Read on for the details.

A man and woman signing financial documents while sitting at a desk and shaking hands with a business professional.

Dec. 4, 2023 | By Emma Newbery

Should I Buy a House at the End of the Year?

Changes to tax deductions may take a lot of the pressure off buying or selling a home before the end of the year. Find out whether it might make sense for you.

Two people walking through an empty room in a house with a realtor.

Dec. 1, 2023 | By Chris Neiger

Nearly 40% of Home Buyers Rely on This to Afford a House

Many home buyers are using financial gifts to afford their homes. Read on to find out where they're getting the money from.

Dec. 1, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Mortgage Rates Are Super High Today. How Much Will Paying Cash for a Home Save You?

Skipping a mortgage could save you money on interest, but there's a drawback to going this route. Here's what you need to consider when buying a home.

Couple seemingly not happy about information provided to them by professional in office.

Nov. 30, 2023 | By Dana George

3 Reasons Why Buying a House Now and Refinancing Later Is a Bad Idea

In this climate, the decision to buy a home can feel huge. Read on for reasons why buying now and refinancing later may not be the best move.

A woman sitting at her kitchen table and typing on a laptop next to paperwork.

Nov. 30, 2023 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What a $300,000 Home Will Cost You Based on Today's Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates are making homeownership more expensive. Keep reading to see what a $300,000 home might look like for you.

A couple does their personal finances using a laptop and notebook.