In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we uncover the diverse world of mortgage products beyond the 30-year fixed rate. From Fannie Mae to FHA and VA loans, discover options for first-time buyers, low credit borrowers, and more. Learn about down payment assistance and why working with a loan officer is key to finding the …
Why insurance is so expensive now.
The insurance industry has experienced significant changes over recent years, with homeowner’s and auto insurance rates increasing rapidly. The reasons behind these trends are numerous, involving a combination of economic, environmental, and market-driven factors. Homeowner’s insurance on the rise Homeowner’s insurance rates have risen notably, driven by several unrelated critical factors: Accelerating auto insurance premiums …
Episode 2: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Home This Year
Listen to Episode 2: In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we explore the top questions about the process of homeownership and practical steps to help get you there! Watch Episode 2 on YouTube: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Home This Year | On The House Podcast Host: Jason Haeger – …
Episode 1: Was It A Mistake Buying a House in 2023?
In this episode of ‘On the House,’ we explore the impact of high-interest rates and challenges faced in 2023, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before making housing decisions. Additionally, we delve into predictions for 2024, including forecasts for home sales, mortgage rates, and property values from industry experts. Want to see if homeownership is …
4.5 to 5.03% Interest Savings Accounts Found!
It’s a bummer that mortgage and other loan rates have been going up the past year, but did you know that means savings account rates are, too? For the first time in decades I have finally seen a legitimate 5.03% APY savings account without many catches. Primis Bank is showing they offer 5.03% APY on their fee-free checking account and 5.03% APY on their fee-free savings account. The next best runner-up is Marcus Bank with a 3.50% APY, but with this link, they give you a bonus 1.0% savings boost to 4.50%. 3.5% or higher is great when you consider the major banks are paying 0.01% to 1.24% as I write this! 5/3 Bank is showing 0.01% APY, Stock Yards Bank & Trust 0.15% APY and PNC gives a whopping 0.01% but they’ll boost that to 1.24% APY if you have a balance of $100,000 or more. (all of these rates were obtained directly from each respective bank’s website)
Now I am partial to Marcus Bank because, 1. I’ve had a savings account with them for four years and I can personally attest that within one week of the Federal Reserve raising or lowering the Fed Funds rates (the ones that affect bank savings accounts), they forward on an increase/ decrease in the saving rate. I’ve found many banks will ‘tease’ you with higher paying rates then quietly lower it without telling you. Primis Bank I’ve looked at and it seems legitimate, but you’ll need to be aware that I’m not sure how well they’ll retain this 5.03%.
Benchmark Delivers A Christmas Homecoming Miracle
Benchmark could just be another mortgage lender, but we’re not. Sure, every company has their ‘core values’, but there is something tangible and special about ours. Our core values didn’t exist until after they were identified in the soul of the company years after it was established. These values not only inform how we do …
Is a HELOC a good financial choice?
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is an easy way to borrow money using your home’s value as collateral. Let’s look into how a HELOC works and whether this option is right for you. How Much Can You Borrow with a HELOC? The first step in deciding if a HELOC is right for you …
VA Loan: National Guard VA Loan qualifications 2022 update
Featured photo credit: https://www.nationalguard.com/careers/ground-forces The VA loan is one of the most powerful home buying tools available to those who qualify. A few benefits of the VA home loan are an option for ZERO down payment, no Private Mortgage Insurance, and lenient credit qualifications. There are specific criteria to qualify for the VA home loan, …
Prepare Your Home for Fall
The resurgence of everything pumpkin spice means that fall is upon us once again. You are probably as excited to pull out that box of fall décor as we are. If you live in a building (a house, duplex, apartment, condo, etc..) then there are some other important tasks that should be added to your …
Is waiting for lower interest rates a mistake?
With mortgage interest rates at a level not seen for over a decade (see chart below), the question of whether to wait for interest rates to fall is creeping in. This is not unreasonable, however, it does beg the question. Are rates actually high? If you take a look at the chart below, you can …