Author name: Adriana Lemus

Blanket mortgages, while simplifying financing for multiple properties, carry significant risks involved in using a blanket mortgage. Key pitfalls include cross-collateralization, where defaulting on one property jeopardizes all, and overlooking balloon payments that require a large lump sum repayment. Borrowers must also avoid neglecting an exit strategy, using them for a primary residence, underestimating property […]

Even after being Clear to Close, mortgage delays can still occur due to last-minute issues like title defects, delays even after being Clear to Close. These delays after Clear to Close often stem from third-party verifications, documentation errors, or changes in borrower finances. Understanding and proactively managing these risks can help ensure your mortgage closes

2-1 vs. 3-2-1 Buydowns: Which Mortgage Structure Is Best for You?In today’s housing market, temporary interest rate reduction strategies like 2-1 and 3-2-1 mortgage buydowns offer homebuyers ways to ease initial financial burdens. A 2-1 buydown reduces the rate by 2% in year one and 1% in year two, while a 3-2-1 buydown offers 3%,

A clear chain of title complements your title insurance by verifying legal ownership history, helping catch risks before closing. how a clear chain of title complements your title insurance But title insurance protects you after the sale—covering financial loss from issues like liens, forged deeds, or undiscovered heirs. While a clean chain offers insight, it’s

Lenders use basis points (BPS)—where 1 BPS equals 0.01%—to fine-tune mortgage pricing based on market trends, credit risk, and profit margins. why mortgage lenders use basis points Even a small change, like 25 BPS, can significantly impact monthly payments. Mortgage lenders rely on BPS to adjust rates in response to shifts in bond yields, borrower

AVM-generated home values on real estate platforms offer quick, data-driven estimates, helping sellers set an initial asking price. While AVMs are fast and cost-effective, they often lack personalization and may overlook renovations or unique features. To price your home to sell faster, use AVMs as a starting point, then consult professionals for local insight and

The difference between APR and interest rate—often just a few basis points (BPS)—can significantly affect your loan’s total cost. While the interest rate impacts your monthly payment, APR includes lender fees, difference between APR and interest rate using BPS giving a fuller, picture of what you’ll pay over time. Comparing loans using APR in BPS terms

Your credit score and loan term significantly impact your mortgage APR. A higher credit score signals lower risk to lenders, directly resulting in a lower APR and substantial long-term savings. Similarly, shorter loan terms generally offer lower APRs but come with higher monthly payments. Understanding how credit score affects APR and the interplay with loan

A low home appraisal can disrupt your deal, but it’s manageable with the right strategy. This guide explains how to respond—whether by appealing, negotiating, paying the gap, or walking away. It also clarifies appraisal vs assessment basics: an appraisal determines market value for lenders, while an assessment estimates value for tax purposes. Understanding this distinction

An alienation clause, or due-on-sale clause, in a mortgage allows the lender to demand full loan repayment if property ownership transfers without their consent. The consequences of ignoring an alienation clause are severe, including immediate loan acceleration, potential foreclosure, credit score damage, and legal penalties. Homeowners must understand this clause to avoid unintended financial and