title-background-swoops-teal

Articles

Cash-out-refinance-explained-in-4-easy-steps-thumbnail

Cash-out refinance explained in 4 easy steps

What is a cash-out refinance? How does it work? Find everything you need to know about cash-out refinance explained in just four simple steps. Learn more.

Pros-and-cons-of-0-down-home-loans-in-Washington-State-thumbnail

Pros and cons of 0-down home loans in Washington State

This article walks through the pros and cons of 0-down home loans in Washington State so you can decide if this option for homeownership is right for you.

What-additional-monthly-costs-need-to-be-paid-when-owning-a-home-thumbnail

What additional monthly costs need to be paid when owning a home?

Private mortgage insurance costs may be a payment for which future homeowners need to plan. Also, homeowner's insurance, maintenance costs, HOA fees and so on.

How-to-fix-an-error-on-a-credit-report-thumbnail

How to fix an error on a credit report

Here's how to fix an error on a credit report. Errors make you look riskier to a lender, so protect your creditworthiness by correcting any mistakes.

Understand-the-loan-to-value-ratio-and-what-it-means-for-a-mortgage-refinance-thumbnail

Understand the loan-to-value ratio and what it means for a mortgage refinance

The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for a refinance is determined by the amount borrowed compared to the current market value of the home.

Refinance-checklist-Are-you-ready-thumbnail

Refinance checklist: Are you ready?

Find everything you need to make sure you’re ready to refinance: from determining your options with a free mortgage refinance calculator to important documents.

What-is-home-equity-and-how-can-it-be-accessed-thumbnail

What is home equity and how can it be accessed?

Home equity is a home’s value after subtracting the mortgage from the market value. It can be accessed through a home equity loan, HELOC or cash-out refinance.

Getting pre-approved and why it’s essential to your home search

When purchasing a home, determining what you can afford to buy is a great place to start. Instead of looking at homes that are out of your price range, knowing how much y...

Loan Estimate 101: How to avoid hidden costs

When you're shopping for a home, a Loan Estimate is a handy tool, since all lenders are required to use the same Loan Estimate form, which makes it easy to compare your l...