Buying Up vs. Buying Down a Mortgage Rate: Understanding the Best Strategy and No Closing Cost Refinancing

When it comes to securing a mortgage, most borrowers focus on getting the lowest interest rate possible. However, there are different strategies you can use to adjust your mortgage rate, depending on your financial goals and situation. Two common tactics are buying down the rate through points and buying up the rate, which can reduce … Read more

7 Smart Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage and When It Makes Sense

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move, but it’s important to understand when it makes the most sense. While a lower interest rate is a common reason, other factors like changing loan terms or tapping into home equity can also drive the decision. Let’s dive into the key factors to consider when deciding … Read more

Are ARMs (Adjustable Rate Mortgages) Worth The Risk? A Look At The Numbers

Are ARMs (adjustable-rate mortgages) worth the risk? First, let’s take a look at how ARMs work. Then, we’ll take a look at the numbers. What is an ARM (adjustable-rate mortgage)? I’ll go over what I consider the important things to know about ARMs. If you want all the details, here’s a great resource. With an … Read more

Is This Interest Rate Meme Really True? Let’s Do A Quick Analysis

This meme about interest rates has been circulating around social media, at least among my real estate contacts. Don’t believe everything you see on the internet. Let’s do some analysis and see if there’s any truth to this meme. It suggests that paying a 7% interest rate at $30k under list price is better than … Read more

How Much Does a 1% Difference in a Mortgage Rate Make?

how much difference does 1% in a mortgage rate make?

Homes have been flying off the market because the supply is so low and buyers greatly outnumber sellers in most markets. Many people are jumping into the market in hopes of becoming a homeowner before mortgage rates rise. Let’s say rates do rise a full 1 percent by the end of the year. How much … Read more