Articles by Gina Freeman - Page 12

Freddie Mac offers discounted properties with favorable financing options via its HomeSteps program.

Your situation can change, making your pre-approval invalid. But you can take steps to keep yourself approved, or re-approved.

When you're shopping for a mortgage, banks will give you varying rate quotes. But, how much of that is the bank's fault? And, how much is because of you?

A surprising look at how the government-recommended method of mortgage rate shopping is fundamentally flawed.

Get your offer noticed and accepted, even when going up against a cash home buyer.

There are hundreds of thousands of licensed mortgage loan officers nationwide. The great ones, though, distinguish themselves pretty clearly.

For buyers in Hawaii, it would take more than 25 years just to save 10% for a down payment on a home. Thankfully, you don't need to save for 10%. Mortgage options are plenty for today's buyers of homes.

Paying off a collection account isn't always the smartest move. How to deal with collection accounts when applying for a mortgage.

A 1031 exchange can be part of an effective tax strategy. As home values rise, rental property owners are seeking ways to limit their tax burden.

There are reasons to refinance when mortgage rates are falling; and reasons to refinance when mortgage rates are rising. It's your mortgage, though. You can do it anytime.

Having two mortgages attached to your home is not a bad thing. For years, U.S. homeowners have used second mortgages for basic financial security.

The ultra-rich get mortgages for one reason: to get a bigger return on investment elsewhere. The typical homeowner can benefit from this strategy.

You get an average 11 percent discount when buying a short sale. But these homes are not always a good value. Take these steps before making an offer.

A mortgage broker is often the right choice. But a bank could be, too. Knowing how each type of company works can help you make the right decision.

A man's home may be his castle, but if it's REALLY a castle, he'll have a hard time mortgaging it. How to find financing for your homes with unique traits.

Identity theft doesn't have to be the end of your homeownership goals. Mortgage lenders, often, can work around low scores due to stolen credit.

Getting a mortgage in retirement is similar to qualifying at any stage of life. Lender guidelines consider retired persons' various types of income.

Saving for a downpayment isn't the only way to raise those funds. You can borrow a portion of the required money down, and get into a home sooner.

Nervous about getting a mortgage? You're not alone. For some, applying for a mortgage is as stressful as seeing the dentist. It doesn't have to be that way.

A piggyback loan is two loans in the place of one. Avoid mortgage insurance, plus two more strategies can reduce home financing costs.