September 24, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Buying a House Sight Unseen: Everything You Need to Know

Buying a home is a big deal, and for many first-time buyers, the idea of purchasing a house sight unseen can feel daunting. However, in a post-pandemic era and with competition starting to react to falling interest rates, this approach is becoming more and more popular. It offers the chance to secure a home in a competitive market, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Let’s explore what you should consider if you’re thinking about making a sight-unseen purchase.

September 20, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Assets, Debt, and Homebuying: Should You Buy a Car or a House First?

When it comes to making big financial decisions, one question many people grapple with is: "Should I buy a house or a car first?" This is especially common during significant life changes like graduating, starting a new job, or planning for a family. The choice between these major assets can impact your overall financial health, including your debt levels and future borrowing potential. In this article, we'll explore the factors that influence whether to buy a house or a car first. We’ll also break down mortgage options like conventional vs. FHA loans, discuss the importance of your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, and help you determine how much home you can afford, all while keeping an eye on mortgage rates.

September 18, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

All About HOA's: Everything you need to know as a first time homebuyer

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it comes with a unique set of considerations, especially when it comes to properties governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA). Understanding how HOAs work, the associated fees, and their regulations is crucial for making an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about HOAs, including whether HOA fees are deductible, how HOAs function, and the average HOA prices you can expect.

September 17, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Deductions and Tax Breaks for First-Time Homebuyers

Buying a home for the first time is an exciting milestone. As a first time homebuyer, there are a handful of financial benefits and tax deductions available to you that can make a big difference in your home affordability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various deductions and tax breaks for first-time homebuyers, focusing on HOA fees, eligibility criteria for being considered a first-time homebuyer, and other potential savings.

September 16, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Pros, Cons, and Exceptions of an FHA Loan: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to buying your first home, understanding the different types of mortgage options available to you can make a significant difference in your financial future! One popular option for frist time homebuyers is the FHA loan, a type of government-backed mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). This article will delve into the pros, cons, and exceptions of FHA loans to help you determine if this mortgage option is right for you.

September 11, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

What Home Can You Afford on a $90K Salary?

Buying a home is a significant milestone, and understanding what you can afford is crucial to making an informed decision. If you earn $90,000 annually and are considering a down payment of 5%, you’ll need to factor in your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio to determine the price range of a home you can comfortably afford. In this article, we’ll break down how to calculate your home affordability and ideal home price, taking into account a 35% DTI ratio and a 5% down payment.

September 9, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Buying a New Construction vs. Older Home: Pros and Cons for First-Time Homebuyers

Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, especially for first-time buyers! A key decision in this process is whether to opt for a new construction home or an older property. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. This comprehensive guide will explore the pros and cons of buying new construction versus an older home to help you make an informed decision.

September 5, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Preparing for a House Viewing: What to Bring, What to Ask

When you’re getting ready to become a homeowner, attending house showings and open houses is one of the most exciting steps in the process! To make the most of these viewings and ensure you make an informed decision, it’s essential to be well-prepared. One of the most important documents you should bring is a pre-approval letter. This article will explore why a pre-approval letter is crucial and provide a comprehensive list of other items to bring to a house viewing, ensuring you cover all your bases and feel confident walking into your house viewing!

September 4, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

The Foyer First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide

Are you taking the first step toward homeownership? There is no one-size-fits-all approach to buying your first home and everyone is on their own unique journey. Our job is to help prepare you in the best, most confident way possible, and that’s exactly why we prepared this guide. This guide will walk you through the A to Z of becoming a homeowner!

September 2, 2024

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McKenzie Hagan

Should you buy a house alone or with your partner/friend/family member?

Many people dream of owning a home, whether it's to live independently, to access the benefits of leveraged debt, or simply to achieve a personal milestone. But is it feasible to purchase a house on your own in 2024? In this guide, we explore how you can buy a home solo and what to consider when making this decision, and discuss the implications of FHA and conventional loans for first-time buyers in the US.