Mortgage lenders consider factors like a strong credit report, steady income and employment, a savings buffer, an adequate down payment and the ideal loan type. Youve found your dream home and youre ready to make whats probably the biggest purchase of your life. While a lucky few can pay for a home with cash, most … Read more
When you buy a home, some financial experts recommend making the largest down payment possible, while others suggest financing as much of your purchase as possible. The right answer depends on market conditions and your circumstances. “Its important to ask the right questions about how various down payment amounts will affect your mortgage insurance and … Read more
Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and … Read more
The VA loan is one of the most popular benefits for veterans, active-duty and reserve service members, and qualifying spouses in the United States. With attractive rates and the ability to buy a home or refinance all of your equity with no money down, its easy to see why. Still, there are certain requirements put … Read more
While credit score requirements vary based on loan type, lenders generally require a credit score of at least 620 to buy a house with a conventional mortgage. To buy a house, you may need a credit score of at least 500, but it will depend on the type of mortgage loan you’re applying for and … Read more
When you get your Social Security number or open a bank account, your credit report doesn’t show up right away. So how can you not have a credit score? Find out what it means if you have no credit score or credit report and the best practices for building credit. Did you know it is … Read more
If you knowingly report inaccurate data on a credit application, you’re committing fraud. And while a credit card issuer might not immediately request verification, legally its possible. Many or all of the products on this page are from partners who compensate us when you click to or take an action on their website, but this … Read more
Theres not a one-size-fits-all solution for the number of credit cards a person should own. However, its generally a good idea to have two or three active credit card accounts, in addition to other types of credit such as student loans, an auto loan or a mortgage. Just remember: The number of credit cards you … Read more
Hey there, friend! If you’re thinkin’ about a cash-out refinance to tap into your home’s equity, you’ve probably got one big question burnin’ in your mind: how much should closing costs be on a cash-out refinance? Well, lemme lay it out straight for ya. On average, closing costs for a cash-out refinance run about 3-6% … Read more
It is important to know your credit score before you go too far with the home buying process if you want to buy a house. Lenders will use your credit score to help determine the type of home loan and interest rate they can offer you. If youâre a home buyer with a brief credit … Read more