Articles by Erik J. Martin - Page 17

Should you buy or rent? That depends on many factors, including your goals, finances and location. Today, buying makes financial sense on the majority of markets.

Buying a house in a hot market requires a cool head. Consequently, would-be buyers must be prepared to act fast and pursue effective strategies to win their desired dwelling.

If you buy a duplex, triplex or four-plex and rent out the extra units, your tenants can help you pay for your home. Why not combine homeownership and investment in one purchase?

Home loans in the most expensive cities are more difficult to get because many lenders consider them riskier. Prepare in advance and get pre-approved for your mortgage before you go shopping in the most expensive cities.

HOA dues are common in condominium and planned communities. Lenders count them in your housing expenses, and they can affect your mortgage approval.

Home buyers often watch the price of homes, but that's just half the equation. Mortgage rates could affect affordability even more.

Unlike single-family neighborhoods, condo and townhome communities must be approved by lending agencies. What to do if your desired condo or townhome is not approved.

2016 was a stellar year for real estate. But will real estate be a good value in 2017, and should sidelined home buyers buy now or wait?

Where will mortgage rates head next year? Find out what the experts think today.

Mortgage rates have defied expectations thus far into 2016. What will the back half of the year hold for rates?

Low mortgage rates and favorable terms are just as available to self-employed mortgage applicants. Five sure-fire best practices will help you get approved.