Keyword: Homebuying
JUN 19, 2019
Lenders Make Home Possible
Homeownership
Buying a home can be an overwhelming experience, but lenders provide a steadying hand.
JUN 13, 2019
What's the Magic Number? Breaking Down Down Payments
Homeownership
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a 20% downpayment to buy a home.
JUN 11, 2019
Agents Make Home Possible
Homeownership
Your real estate agent is responsible for finding the right home for you - at the right price
JUN 6, 2019
Housing Counselors Make Home Possible
Homeownership
Buying a home can be intimidating - if you're not sure how to get started, consider working with an experienced housing counselor.
JUN 4, 2019
Making Home Possible
Homeownership
We're proud to be part of the industry that helps turn dreams into reality for people like first-time homebuyer Patrick Mineo of Scranton, Pennsylvania.
MAY 30, 2019
Memory Lane: Spring Homebuying
Homeownership
That's a wrap! Test your knowledge in our homebuying quiz to see what you've learn this spring.
MAY 28, 2019
Cruise Control: Settling into Homeownership
Homeownership
You purchased your dream home and you're a homeowner. Now what?
MAY 23, 2019
Amortization: Filling Up Your Tank
Homeownership
Learn how this important table serves as the financial fuel gauge of your mortgage.
MAY 21, 2019
Last Stop: Closing Day
Homeownership
Your destination is on the horizon and it's time to close the deal. Here's what to expect on closing day.
MAY 16, 2019
Making Your Offer: No U-turns
Homeownership
You’re moving full speed ahead and preparing to make an offer on your dream home. Here's what you need to know.
MAY 9, 2019
Stuck at a Crossroads? How to Find the Right Home
Homeownership
There are many different routes you can take on your journey to homeownership, how do you decide which home is right for you?
MAY 7, 2019
Pit Stop: Time to Test Your Knowledge
Homeownership
You're half-way through the homebuying road trip. Let's take a quick break to see what you've learned so far.
MAY 2, 2019
Interest Rates: How to Navigate the Roads Ahead
Homeownership
Lenders set interest rates based on several factors- here's what steps you can take to secure the best rate possible.
APR 30, 2019
Know About Mortgages Before You Go
Homeownership
Which mortgage product is best for you?
APR 25, 2019
Budgeting for Your Journey: Part II
Homeownership
Now is when the rubber meets the road, finalizing your loan and preparing for your monthly mortgage payments.
APR 23, 2019
Budgeting for Your Journey
Homeownership
Budgeting for your journey is never as much fun as the trip itself, but it's a critical part of the ride.
APR 18, 2019
Gas Up for Your Down Payment
Homeownership
Be sure you have the right tools when thinking about your down payment.
APR 16, 2019
Pre-approval Letter: Passport to Homeownership
Homeownership
What is a pre-approval letter and how do you get one?
APR 11, 2019
Map It Out: The Homebuying Timeline
Homeownership
Before you hit the road, you should be able to answer the question: what are the steps in the homebuying process?
APR 9, 2019
Co-Pilot(s): Assembling your Team
Homeownership
There are many people involved in your homebuying journey, and having the right people along for the ride can help navigate through the process.
APR 4, 2019
Listen Now: Hottest Homebuying Playlist
Homeownership
Playlists can make any journey more enjoyable and smooth sailing (even dancing!).
APR 2, 2019
Spring Break or Spring Homebuying?
Homeownership
This spring homebuying season we're taking you on a road trip.
MAR 28, 2019
March Madness: The Final Four Cs
Notable
How do you get a loan? What do lenders look for? Housing's big dance happening off the basketball court.
MAR 21, 2019
Keep Calm and Shop On
Homeownership
Spring home buying season is here, did you know shopping for a better mortgage rate could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars?
MAR 19, 2019
Is There a Faster Way to Be Mortgage Free?
Homeownership
90% of today's homebuyers choose a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, but what if you could be mortgage free faster?
MAR 7, 2019
New Job, New Home
Homeownership
You've taken a new job in a new city- here's how to find a new place to call home during your move.
MAR 1, 2019
The Tolls of Your Commute
Homeownership
Today's average commute is longer than ever before, Be sure to factor in the cost of your commute, including time and money, when making your move.
FEB 6, 2019
Get In-The-Know About Escrow
Homeownership
What is escrow and how does it affect your monthly mortgage payment?
JAN 29, 2019
Open Season: House Hunting with Kids
Homeownership
Before you begin touring homes, here are a few tips for parents to consider.
JAN 9, 2019
Planning Your Move
Homeownership
The excitement of buying a new home is frequently followed with the dread of having to move. We've put together some tips to make your move as seamless as possible.
DEC 27, 2018
6 Steps to Achieve your Homebuying Resolution
Homeownership
If one of your resolutions for 2019 is to become a homeowner, we have 6 ways to make the homebuying process easier.
DEC 20, 2018
In It For The Long Run
Homeownership
For the final blog in our avoiding homebuying mistakes series we are talking about the long-term planning involved in homeownership.
DEC 18, 2018
Do Your Homework
Homeownership
We're explaining the importance of choosing a home that meets your long-run needs and stressing the first rule of real estate: location, location, location.
DEC 13, 2018
Making the "Right" Choice
Homeownership
If you are looking to buy a house, realize that there is likely more than one "right" home for you-every property will have its pros and cons.
DEC 11, 2018
Money Management: Bringing Home the Bacon
Homeownership
A home is likely the most expensive investment of your lifetime, so it is important to begin the home buying process by getting your financials in order.
DEC 6, 2018
Generation Z is Buying Homes
Homeownership
Although Generation Z is early-on in adulthood, they nearly match millennial aspirations for homeownership, 97% of Generation Z believe that they will own a home in the future.
DEC 4, 2018
Making a List, Checking it Twice
Homeownership
As you begin to make your holiday wish list, you might also consider creating a homebuying wish list.
NOV 28, 2018
How Much Home Can I Afford?
Homeownership
Finding the answer is one of the most important questions you'll have to answer when buying a home. Learn what matters most.
OCT 30, 2018
Would You Buy a Haunted House?
Homeownership
Your dream home is haunted. Are you still interested?
OCT 26, 2018
Self-Employed? Learn How You Can Get a Mortgage
Homeownership
Starting the loan application process can be overwhelming, but even more so for borrowers who are self-employed.
OCT 24, 2018
Buying from Afar
Homeownership
If you're buying a home from afar you can beat a great deal of the stress with preparation and a strong support system.
OCT 17, 2018
Equity in the West
Homeownership
The Western states have shown strong gains in equity this past year. What can you expect?
OCT 9, 2018
Ways to Save for a Down Payment
Homeownership
Look to build your nest egg and reach your homebuying goal with these tips.
OCT 4, 2018
5 Tips for Buying New Construction
Homeownership
Buying new construction can provide you with exciting choices, but the buying process is different and warrants some tips for success.
SEP 26, 2018
3 Strategies for Winning the Bidding War
Homeownership
Today's market is competitive and bidding wars are not uncommon. So, how do you "win" this war?
SEP 17, 2018
30 Years of Certainty
Homeownership
30 years may sound like a lifetime with many unknowns, but a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage can provide you with many comforting certainties.
SEP 11, 2018
Myth vs. Fact: Manufactured Homes
Homeownership
Here are five prevalent manufactured housing myths and the facts that debunk them.
SEP 6, 2018
Is the Housing Market Shifting to Favor Buyers?
Homeownership
After years of increasing home prices, the tide is turning to benefit buyers.
AUG 30, 2018
Global Perspective
Homeownership
Did you know that the United States has one the most affordable housing markets in the world? It's true.
AUG 24, 2018
10 Terms You Should Know
Homeownership
If you're a first-time homebuyer, ask yourself: Am I ready for the "homebuying" lingo? Your words are important and we're here to help you talk wisely.
AUG 15, 2018
ISO A+ Schools
Homeownership
In real estate, the adage "location, location, location" still holds true, but for three-quarters of buyers, this really means "school district, school district, school district."
AUG 7, 2018
10 Best Places for First-Time Homebuyers
Homeownership
Finding the right location is an important factor when looking to buy a home.
JUL 2, 2018
First-time Buyers Are Finally on the Rise
Research and Analysis
First-time buyers represented 46 percent of Freddie Mac's purchased loans in the first quarter, which was the largest share in recent history. Can it continue?
JUN 28, 2018
5 Reasons to be Optimistic About Homeownership
Homeownership
Find out why Freddie Mac's outlook for homeownership looks bright in coming years.
JUN 21, 2018
The Power of Attachment
Homeownership
Did you know that homeownership helps foster stronger, more stable neighborhoods? It's true. Check out all of the social benefits owning a home can bring.
JUN 19, 2018
Your Home and Your Community's Bottom Line
Homeownership
As a homeowner, you're not only making an investment in your future, you're investing in your local economy – in up to 26 ways
JUN 14, 2018
There's No Place Like Home
Homeownership
The pride of homeownership, coupled with a sense of freedom, gives you the power to make your home uniquely yours, from the outside in.
JUN 14, 2018
An Employment Leg Up with NextJob Partnership
Notable
A new Freddie Mac partnership with NextJob will provide job search assistance to current and aspiring homeowners living in designated underserved markets.
JUN 12, 2018
Inflation Protection (It's Real!)
Homeownership
Inflation touches virtually everything we purchase, except your fixed-rate mortgage.
JUN 6, 2018
Adding Equity Up
Homeownership
Homeownership has cemented its role as part of the American Dream, providing families with a place that is their own and an avenue to build wealth through equity. Let's see how this equity adds up.
MAY 31, 2018
2018 Spring Homebuying Season Quiz
Homeownership
Have you enjoyed our Spring Homebuying Season Blog Series? Prove it!
MAY 30, 2018
You're a Homeowner! Now What?
Homeownership
Owning a home comes with responsibilities, but it also comes with a lot of freedom.
MAY 25, 2018
Closing: What to Expect
Homeownership
Closing is exciting because it's the final step in purchasing your home, but it can also be overwhelming. Learn what to expect.
MAY 22, 2018
Leveraging Your Rate
Homeownership
When it comes to mortgage rates, the lower the better. See how taking the extra time to shop around can help you.
MAY 17, 2018
Let's Get to the Point
Homeownership
While shopping for a mortgage you'll be offered the option to buy "discount points". What are they and do you need them?
MAY 14, 2018
Amore Your Amortization Schedule
Homeownership
What exactly is amortization, what is an amortization schedule, and why does it matter?
MAY 11, 2018
Homeownership: Taking Taxes into Account
Homeownership
2018 ushered in new federal income tax laws that have many homeowners scratching their heads and wondering how the changes will affect them . The answer: It depends.
MAY 9, 2018
Putting the ROI in RenOvatIons
Homeownership
Here are six home improvement projects that will almost pay for themselves in resale value.
MAY 2, 2018
Should You Fix It or Adjust It?
Homeownership
Take the time to learn the important features and benefits of the two most prominent mortgage types.
APR 26, 2018
Want to Buy a Home? Answer These 5 Questions
Homeownership
Before purchasing your home, it's important to get a full picture of your financial situation.
APR 20, 2018
Debunking the 20% Down Myth
Homeownership
Don't let the 20% myth keep you from purchasing a home this spring homebuying season.
APR 19, 2018
Don't Leave Money on the Table
Homeownership
Shopping around for a better a mortgage rate could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.
APR 17, 2018
Beyond Your Mortgage: Know What You Can Afford
Homeownership
In addition to your mortgage, there are additional expenses to consider when planning for your financial future once you become a homeowner.
APR 13, 2018
But Wait, There's More
Homeownership
In addition to principal and interest, your monthly mortgage payment may also include an escrow payment and private mortgage insurance payment. So, what are these extra payments?
APR 10, 2018
Understanding the Homebuying Timeline
Homeownership
We've outlined the main steps involved in the homebuying process to help get you started.
APR 4, 2018
Who Does What?
Homeownership
The homebuying process can be intimidating. The good news? You'll have a team of very important people who will work hard to make your experience as smooth as possible.
APR 2, 2018
2018 Spring Homebuying Season: Meet Nicole
Homeownership
Follow Nicole's homeownership journey this Spring for tips to get into a new home.
MAR 29, 2018
The Fiercest Spring Homebuying Season in a Decade
Homeownership
This year's spring homebuying season is predicted to be even more competitive than years past. Learn how you can get a head start on the competition.
MAR 28, 2018
Interest Rate vs. APR
Homeownership
Interest Rates and APR are both used when applying for a loan. Understanding the difference between them could save you thousands of dollars.
MAR 20, 2018
Will Millennials Move Out?
Research and Analysis
What happens the newly crowned largest generation decides to start buying homes...and what happens if they don't?
MAR 19, 2018
How Will Rising Rates Affect Your Bottom Line
Homeownership
With the heightened talk about rising interest rates, many prospective homebuyers are understandably concerned about whether now is the right time to purchase a home.
MAR 13, 2018
Taking Responsibility
Homeownership
While shopping for your home is fun and exciting, it's important to remember the responsibilities and financial commitments you'll have as a homeowner.
MAR 9, 2018
4 Tips for Buying a HomeSteps Home
Homeownership
If you're shopping for a home, it's definitely worth taking a look at HomeSteps homes. Here are 4 tips for buying one.
FEB 22, 2018
How Your Tax Refund Can Help You Buy a Home
Homeownership
If you're expecting a tax refund this year, check out these three ways your refund could bring you closer to homeownership.
FEB 21, 2018
Renting Vs. Buying: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
Homeownership
Answer these five questions and you'll be ready to make major decisions by the time the spring thaw comes.
FEB 6, 2018
Numbers Don't Lie: 2017 Housing Trends
Homeownership
The National Association of REALTORS annual report on home buyers and sellers is full of information on the state of housing in 2017.
FEB 1, 2018
How Much Will You Bring to the Closing Table?
Homeownership
Before you get the keys to the home that you're buying, you'll go through the closing process, which includes paying certain fees. How much money are we talking about?
JAN 29, 2018
Pros and Cons of Buying a Home in Winter
Homeownership
Just because Spring is a busier real estate season than the others doesn't make it better for buyers.
JAN 25, 2018
One Easy System for Improving Your Credit? Yes!
Homeownership
Looking for an easy, convenient way to better manage your finances, improve your credit, save money, and work toward buying a home? Check out this new Freddie Mac program.
JAN 12, 2018
What to Expect: Tick Tock
Homeownership
If you're looking to buy your first home, you're likely asking how long the homebuying process takes, soup to nuts. Learn more about the timeline and necessary steps.
JAN 9, 2018
Mars vs. Venus and Your Home
Homeownership
It's a fact that men's and women's brains are wired in different ways. Just how much do these differences stack up when looking for a home? Let's find out.
JAN 3, 2018
Let's Talk About 3% Down
Homeownership
If you think buying a home is out of reach because you don't have enough for a 20% down payment, get the facts about 3% down options.
DEC 20, 2017
Our Top Ten List
Notable
The results are in. Did you read our top most–read blog posts for 2017?
DEC 7, 2017
The Top Misconceptions About Homebuying
Homeownership
While 2017 may have been the best year for housing in a decade, new data indicates several perceived barriers to homeownership.
NOV 28, 2017
When Should You Buy that Starter Home?
Homeownership
While Spring is traditionally thought of as the peak season for buying a new home, those looking for a starter home should wait until the leaves start to fall.
NOV 16, 2017
3 Reasons to Buy a Home This Fall
Homeownership
Fall is a great time of the year with changing leaves, football, a bit of chill in the air, and - for homebuyers. Find out why.
NOV 14, 2017
Could a Manufactured Home Be Right for You?
Homeownership
Manufactured homes have improved a lot over time, and are an important source of housing across the country. In Kentucky, a new program can help get you ready to buy one.
NOV 13, 2017
The Big, Bad "B" Word
Research and Analysis
Even as the housing industry continues to recover and grow more stable, many are keeping an eye out for the next house price bubble.
OCT 26, 2017
Be Wicked Smart About Identity Theft
Homeownership
Join us in our final National Cyber Security Awareness Month post to learn how to keep yourself and your information secure.
OCT 18, 2017
Can You Skip the Property Appraisal?
Homeownership
You might be able to skip the traditional property appraisal. Talk to your loan officer to see if you qualify.
OCT 13, 2017
Let's Talk About 4, 8 and 13
Homeownership
If you believe in superstitions and are looking to buy or sell a home, put aside the 4s and 13s and embrace the 8.
OCT 10, 2017
Be Wicked Smart About Online Rental Scams
Rental Housing
We're continuing our "Be Wicked Smart" series in celebration of National Cyber Security Awareness Month. Today's topic - online rental scams.
OCT 5, 2017
Be Wicked Smart About Phishing
Homeownership
It's October AND National Cyber Security Month – be wicked smart.
OCT 3, 2017
Millennials Buy Homes for Their Best Friends
Homeownership
One–third of Millennials had their best friends at heart — dogs, that is — when deciding to buy their first homes, according to a recent survey.
AUG 25, 2017
Did You Know Over 93% of U.S. Homes Have Positive Equity?
Homeownership
You often hear that buying a home is a good way to build equity. But what does that mean?
AUG 22, 2017
Buying a Home is Still Affordable. Or is it?
Homeownership
Is buying a home affordable today? The answer is yes and no. It depends on a variety of factors, including where you live.
AUG 17, 2017
The Facts (and Myths) on Home Inspections
Homeownership
Because home inspections are such an important part of your homebuying journey, it's important to separate the facts from the myths.
AUG 15, 2017
Paying Down the Mortgage: Meet Stephen, Brad and Patty
Homeownership
We reached out to three homeowners, all at various stages of their mortgage, and asked them how it felt to be paying off their home. Read what they had to say.
AUG 10, 2017
The Facts (and Myths) on Down Payments and PMI
Homeownership
Before accepting the 20% down myth, it's important to do your homework, weigh the pros and cons regarding your down payment options and separate the facts from the myths.
AUG 8, 2017
An MVP Team Can Help You Score That Home
Homeownership
For something as important as buying a home, you need the right team of housing professionals working with you.
AUG 3, 2017
33% of Homeowners Do This. Would You?
Homeownership
Last year, 19% of survey respondents said they would buy a house sight unseen. This year, 33%. Find out why.
JUL 21, 2017
Low Rates = High Purchasing Power
Homeownership
Mortgage rates are a still a steal for buyers.
JUL 19, 2017
Welcome to Your New Luxury (Manufactured) Home
Homeownership
For high–end finishes at bargain prices, check out today's crop of new manufactured homes.
JUL 12, 2017
Could You Chart a Similar Path to Buying a Home?
Homeownership
Meet Layanna, a single mom. Through her commitment and the support of her real estate agent, loan officer, and community, she's a brand–new homeowner.
JUN 27, 2017
Freedoms of Homeownership
Homeownership
When considering the pros and cons of buying a home, one thing you can place in the 'pros' column is the independence owning a home can bring.
JUN 20, 2017
The Math Behind Putting Less Than 20% Down
Homeownership
Did you know that you could buy a home with a down payment of less than 20%? Lots of people do. Want to join them? Find out how all of the numbers add up.
JUN 9, 2017
Meet the Team: Lender
Homeownership
Lenders will help you understand your mortgage options, terms, closing costs, and more.
JUN 7, 2017
Meet the Team: Real Estate Agent
Homeownership
You're going to be spending a lot of time with your agent so it's important to find someone who gets you.
JUN 5, 2017
Meet the Team: Housing Counselor
Homeownership
While many people want to jump straight into the house–hunting part of the buying process, it's important to understand what the process entails first.