Mortgage News & Tips
Maintain Your Home, Save on Insurance
Proper home maintenance can prevent claims and keep premiums low, and it includes cleaning gutters, maintaining sump pumps, and salting driveways in winterBundling your home, auto, and other insurance policies with the same company can lead to discounts.
Read MoreLock Rates Early, Get Pre-Approved
Get fully pre-approved early to lock in rates for 60-90 days. Put down a larger down payment, typically 20% or more.
Read MoreHow to Find a Buyer’s Agent
Speak to friends, local business owners, and check for "sold" signs in desired neighborhoods.Look for agents who’ve successfully closed transactions in the area where you’re looking to buy.
Read MoreDon’t Wait for the Dip: Steps to Owning a Home Today
Shop around for mortgage rates and explore government loan options. Consider assuming a seller's existing mortgage or buy down your interest rate.
Read MoreJacksonville’s Market Offers More Choices
Florida metros dominate the best places for buyers in Zillow’s new market heat index. Despite a national trend of more inventory in some areas, the US remains a seller's market overall.
Read MoreDown Payments Rise From Pre-Pandemic Era—but You Don’t Need To Put Down as Much as You Think
Higher home prices and mortgage rates aren't the only rising numbers in the housing market post-COVID-19. The average down payment for a median-priced home has increased significantly since pre-pandemic days. Climbing mortgage rates and market dynamics are driving buyers to put more money down, with the pandemic leading to a rise in down payments. Despite…
Read MoreWho Owns Your Mortgage? And Why Does It Matter?
Your mortgage lender might sell your loan to another investor after you close. This frees up capital for the lender and generates cash through servicing fees.
Read More9 insurance companies reducing rates in 2024. Is your insurer on the list?
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation notes a decrease in property insurance rate filings, indicating improvement in housing insurance issues. Nine companies have filed for rate reductions, while ten companies have filed for a 0% increase. Legislative reforms in 2022 and 2023 are contributing to market stabilization. Continue to full article
Read MoreFlorida Housing Market Predictions for Next 2-Yr
Florida's housing market is expected to see slower growth but remain positive in the next two years.Rising interest rates are causing an adjustment with more properties on the market.
Read MoreJacksonville’s Jewel: Florida Living for $108K Income Families
In Jacksonville, the required income to purchase a median home was $108K in April, ↑ 8.3% yearly. The median listing price for homes is $420K, ↑ 2.4% yearly.
Read More
