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Seller Concessions vs. Closing Costs – What’s the Difference?
Standard Closing Costs You’ll see These typical fees in nearly every home transaction: title insurance, escrow charges, lender fees, etc. In a VA loan scenario, the seller can pay all of these “reasonable and customary” closing costs if it’s negotiated in your purchase contract. The best part? These costs do NOT count toward the VA’s…
Read MoreFinancial Planning for Your Home Purchase: A Step-by-Step Guide
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. It requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of your financial situation. Proper preparation can save you time, reduce stress, and streamline the entire process. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to get financially ready…
Read MoreMortgage Banker vs. Broker vs. Correspondent Lender: Key Differences Explained
Today, we’re diving into an essential topic for anyone looking to understand their mortgage options: the differences between a mortgage banker, a mortgage broker, and a correspondent lender. At Capstone Home Loans, we pride ourselves on offering various loan options to fit your unique needs. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, a real estate investor,…
Read MoreThe Housing Market Right Now
Home prices are climbing, and mortgage rates are at a high we haven’t seen in months. Experts say these rates might not drop anytime soon. So, if you’re considering buying a house, it might be wise to do it now. Elections and Rates Some people wait for big events like elections, hoping they’ll bring lower…
Read MoreBuying and Selling Houses When Things Feel Uncertain
Hey everyone, it’s Aaron here! Today, I want to chat about something pretty cool: investing in houses, even when times are a bit shaky. You might have heard about how the economy is doing a rollercoaster ride, right? There’s some good news about buying houses despite all that happening. What’s Going On With House Buying?…
Read MoreTapping Into Home Equity: A Wise Move in Today’s High-Interest Climate
Hello, everyone. I’m Aaron Hoy from Capstone Home Loans. With over two decades in the loan industry, I’ve seen a lot of market ups and downs. Today, I want to talk about a strategy that might seem counterintuitive in our current higher than what we have been used to interest rate environment: tapping into your…
Read MoreHonoring Service: Understanding the Benefits of VA Loans this Veterans Day
As Veterans Day rolls around, it’s a poignant reminder of the valor and dedication shown by those who’ve worn the uniform. I often reflect on my own time in the U.S. Navy, from 1993 to 1998 – years that took me across the globe from the bustling streets of Hong Kong and Singapore to the…
Read MoreDebunking the 20% Down Payment Myth: Exploring Home Loan Options with Less Money Down
Hey everyone! Have you ever heard that you need a whopping 20% down payment to buy a house? That’s a pretty common myth, and today, we will bust it wide open. The truth is, there are different types of loans out there that require way less money upfront. Knowing your options could be the key…
Read MoreAre You Renting? Here’s Why You Should Buy a Home Now
Are you a renter who is thinking about buying a home? If so, you may be wondering if now is the right time. After all, mortgage rates are at their highest level in years. But even with higher rates, there are still some good reasons to buy a home now. Here are a few of…
Read MoreHow to Achieve Good Credit and Save Money on Your Mortgage
Navigating the path to homeownership comes with a series of pivotal steps, and none are as fundamental as achieving good credit while simultaneously optimizing your mortgage prospects. Your journey begins with a comprehensive understanding of where your credit currently stands. The invaluable insight provided by your FICO credit score, available for free through trusted sources…
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