Blog

A defeasance clause ensures a lender releases their claim on a property upon mortgage payoff. However, it doesn’t protect against other title defects like errors or hidden liens. So, does a defeasance clause fully protect your title? No, title insurance is still crucial as it safeguards against past ownership issues, forged documents, or undisclosed claims, […]

Have you faced the emotional and financial strain of losing your home through foreclosure or received a deficiency judgment? You’re not alone. While these events can feel like the end of the road financially, they don’t define your future. Many homeowners, investors, and even first-time buyers have recovered from such setbacks—and so can you. In

Choosing a deed in lieu (DIL) requires careful planning to avoid common pitfalls. Key things to know before choosing a deed in lieu include engaging early with your servicer, exploring all alternatives, and securing a written deficiency waiver. Additionally, address junior liens, understand tax implications, and maintain the property’s condition. Always negotiate for relocation assistance

Understanding how a deed in lieu works as a foreclosure alternative involves voluntarily transferring your home’s deed to the lender to satisfy the mortgage debt, often waiving deficiency judgments. It’s quicker and less credit damaging than foreclosure, but offers less control than a short sale. A short sale involves selling the home for less than

Refinancing can significantly lower monthly payments and refinancing can reduce the overall interest paid over time if you secure a lower interest rate without extending the loan term. However, resetting to a new, longer loan term, even with a lower rate, can lead to paying more in total interest due to the extended period over

Bi-weekly mortgage payments accelerate loan payoff and save interest by making an extra full payment annually. This strategy, achieved by paying half the monthly amount every two weeks, significantly reduces the principal faster. Because compound interest can significantly increase your total mortgage cost, reducing the principal more frequently also reduces the base on which interest

Comparing fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage options, a 5/1 ARM offers a lower initial rate for five years, then adjusts annually. In a rising rate environment, this provides short-term savings but carries the risk of payment shock after the fixed period. It’s suitable for those planning to sell or refinance before the adjustment, while a fixed-rate

The blog clarifies the difference between “Clear to Close” and “Final Approval” in the mortgage process. Final Approval means your loan is nearly complete but still difference between Clear to Close and closing has pending conditions, while Clear to Close confirms all requirements are satisfied, and closing documents can be prepared. It also highlights key

Have you ever wondered if you qualify for a VA loan—or what it really takes to get approved? Whether you’re an active-duty service member, a veteran ready to buy your dream home, a real estate agent helping military clients, or a seasoned investor considering VA loan strategies, it’s critical to understand the essential VA loan

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