Blog - mortgage tips

The Power of Co-Signing on a Mortgage

If you're exploring the world of mortgages, you might have come across the term "co-signing" at some point. But what does it really mean, and how does it work? As your local mortgage pro, let Steadfast Mortgage guide you through the ins and outs of co-signing on a mortgage.

So, what exactly is a co-signer? Essentially, a co-signer is someone who is willing to vouch for your mortgage application by using their financial credentials. They step in to help you qualify for the loan or secure a better interest rate. However, by co-signing, they're also agreeing to shoulder the responsibility of repaying the loan if, for any reason, you're unable to meet your obligations.

What's the difference between a co-signer and a co-borrower?

While both…

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Do's and Don'ts After a Mortgage Application

Once you've submitted your mortgage application, it's crucial to tread carefully in the financial landscape to ensure a smooth approval process. Here are 10 things you should avoid after applying for a mortgage:

1.) Steer Clear of Significant Purchases

Resist the temptation to make large purchases, whether it's a new car or extravagant furniture, in the period following your mortgage application. Lenders analyze your debt-to-income ratio, and substantial new debts can raise concerns about your financial stability.

2.) Maintain Job Stability

Lenders appreciate stability, and changing jobs during the mortgage application process might send red flags. Try to stay in your current job until the mortgage is approved, as it reflects…

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4 Tips for Reducing Closing Costs

Owning a home is a significant milestone, but the path to homeownership often comes with its fair share of hurdles. One of the most substantial financial challenges is navigating the closing costs associated with buying a home.

While these costs are inevitable, there are savvy strategies to minimize the financial impact and make your dream home more affordable.

Let's explore some ways to potentially reduce closing costs and make the home-buying process a smoother journey.

Shop Around for Third-Party Services:

Lenders often have preferred sources for closing services, but you have the flexibility to explore alternatives. Check section C of page 2 of your good faith loan estimate for listed services and consider opting for companies not on…

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Sneaky Ways to Beat High Mortgage Numbers

Eyeing that perfect house but feeling a bit flustered by the talk of high mortgage rates? Don't let those numbers scare you off just yet! Here are some nifty tricks to navigate these high rates. Think of them as your secret weapons to bag that dream home, even when rates are playing hardball.

Let's dive into seven smart moves that could make those seemingly daunting rates work in your favor!

1.) Seller Sweeteners: Ever heard of seller concessions? Picture this: sellers covering a chunk of your closing costs, throwing in a shiny home warranty, or even leaving behind some dreamy appliances. When rates climb, sellers are often more game to negotiate these goodies.

2.) Closing Cost Cushion: Feeling the pinch of those upfront costs? Some…

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How To Tell if it's Time for a Jumbo Loan

In the world of real estate financing, a myriad of options awaits those seeking to purchase their dream homes. One such option often arises when dealing with high-priced properties is the jumbo loan. But what exactly is a jumbo loan, and when should you consider it?

A jumbo loan is a mortgage specifically designed to finance properties that exceed the limits of a conventional conforming loan. These loans are a practical solution if you're eyeing properties that come with a hefty price tag, going beyond the thresholds set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) for conforming loans.

As of 2023, the maximum limit for a conforming loan is $726,200 in most counties. Properties that surpass this figure are the ones that necessitate a jumbo…

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Remote Worker's Guide to Securing a Mortgage

As a remote worker, you have the advantage of choosing where you live, opening up a world of possibilities both personally and financially. Whether you prefer the tranquility of rural areas or seek more affordable housing options outside expensive cities, getting a mortgage while working remotely may require some additional documentation, such as a remote work letter.

In this article, we'll explore the importance of a remote work letter in the mortgage application process and what it entails.

Do You Need a Remote Work Letter for Your Mortgage?

In most cases, yes, you will need a remote work letter when applying for a mortgage loan. The purpose of this letter is to provide verification of your employment and income during the underwriting…

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Is a 20% Down Payment Right for You?

The idea that you should put 20% down on a home is one that has been the "gold standard" for years. After all, when you put 20% down, you avoid paying for private mortgage insurance, and you'll have a smaller loan amount with lower monthly payments. It's something that could save you a lot of money in the long run—but there's also a catch.

Not everyone can easily afford 20%, especially with home prices having risen at a record pace over the last few years. So, what should potential buyers do? Let's explore the pros and cons of putting 20% down on your next home purchase.

The Financial Benefits of Putting 20% Down

Let's start by talking about the financial benefits of putting 20% down. In most cases, if you can afford it, it makes good…

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Max Debt-to-Income Ratio for a Mortgage

Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio determines what mortgage you’re eligible for. So before getting pre-approved, your mortgage advisor will review your income and debts to help you understand where you currently stand. 

In this article, we’re going to look at what a debt-to-income ratio is and what to expect when you apply for a mortgage so that you’ll be prepared when you start househunting.

What is Debt-To-Income Ratio?

The debt-to-income ratio compares a borrower’s monthly debt payments to their monthly gross income. When someone applies for a home loan, lenders use the ratio to help determine their ability to repay monthly payments and accumulate additional debt. 

When you apply for a home loan, you’re required to meet maximum DTI…

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Will Pre-Approval Hurt My Credit?

Getting mortgage pre-approval is one of the first steps toward buying your dream home. Pre-approval boosts the likelihood that the seller will accept your offer and gives you a detailed quote for your homebuying budget. 

But homebuyers often hesitate because they think that pre-approval hurts their credit score. Will it? 

The truth is that it will temporarily lower your score, as is true whenever a creditor pulls your credit report. But the benefits of getting pre-approved outshine the slight dip in your score.

Does a Pre-approval Impact My Credit Score?

A pre-approval usually requires a hard credit inquiry, although a soft inquiry is all that is needed for a pre-qualification. A hard inquiry can lower a borrower's FICO score by about…

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Choosing the Best Mortgage Option

Not all loan products are the same, nor are borrower situations. For first-time homebuyers, you’ll most likely hear about the most popular 30-year fixed-rate conventional loan, and there’s no arguing that it's a great loan product for most buyers but not in all circumstances.

However, other mortgage options could be better, depending on your financial circumstances and future plans.

The best way to know is to talk to a mortgage professional. But you can start getting familiar with your options with this article.

If you plan to stay for a long time

When you come across a home you fall in love with and plan to stay in the property forever, a fixed-rate loan is a good option. 

These loans can give you peace of mind since you pay the same…

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