18 Mar 2025
By 24hr Mortgage

How Debt-to-Income Ratio Affects Your Mortgage Eligibility

Home Buyer Tips, ,
When applying for a mortgage, lenders evaluate several factors to determine your loan eligibility. One of the most critical metrics is your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI). Understanding how DTI impacts mortgage approval can help you better prepare for homeownership and improve your chances of securing the loan you need. What is Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI)? DTI measures the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward monthly debt obligations. Lenders use this ratio to assess your ability to manage additional debt responsibly. There are two types of DTI: 1. Front-End DTI: Focuses solely on your housing expenses, including mortgage principal, interest, property taxes,…
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13 Feb 2025
By 24hr Mortgage

How Obtaining a Mortgage Can Impact Your Credit Score

Home Buyer Tips, ,
When considering homeownership, many potential buyers wonder: Will getting a mortgage help my credit score? The answer is yes—if managed correctly. A mortgage is a major financial commitment, but it can also be a powerful tool for building and maintaining strong credit. Here’s how a mortgage can affect your credit score and what you should keep in mind. Building Credit with On-Time Payments One of the most significant factors influencing your credit score is payment history. Mortgage payments, like other loans, are reported to credit bureaus. Making your payments on time and in full each month demonstrates financial responsibility and…
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23 Jan 2025
By 24hr Mortgage

Is It Time to Stop Paying Rent and Start Building Equity?

Home Buyer Tips, ,
Have you ever calculated how much rent you’ve paid over the years? It’s a staggering number. According to studies, the average American spends between $133,000 and $155,000 on rent in just six to seven years. Let’s break that down and explore what it means for your financial future—and how you might be able to change that narrative. What Does This Number Represent? These figures aren’t just numbers; they’re the cost of temporary housing over time. Rent payments are necessary to secure a place to live, but unlike a mortgage, they don’t build equity. When you rent, your monthly payments benefit…
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17 Jan 2025
By 24hr Mortgage

How Mortgage Rates Affect Your Home Buying Power

Home Buyer Tips, ,
Mortgage rates play a significant role in determining how much home you can afford. These rates influence the cost of borrowing money for your mortgage, which directly impacts your monthly payment and, ultimately, your home buying power. The Impact of Mortgage Rates on Affordability When mortgage rates are low, the cost of borrowing decreases. This means you can afford a larger loan or purchase a more expensive home without substantially increasing your monthly payment. For example, a lower rate might allow you to upgrade to a home with additional square footage, a better neighborhood, or extra features that would otherwise…
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05 Dec 2024
By 24hr Mortgage

The Role of the Appraisal Contingency in Real Estate Contracts

Home Buyer Tips, ,
When you're buying a home, one important component of the real estate contract is the appraisal contingency. This clause protects the buyer in case the property’s appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon sale price. While it’s a common part of many real estate transactions, it’s often not fully understood. Here's why it’s so important and how it can impact your purchase. What is an Appraisal Contingency? An appraisal contingency is a condition in the purchase agreement that allows the buyer to back out or renegotiate the deal if the property appraises for less than the offer price. Lenders require…
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03 Dec 2024
By 24hr Mortgage

Steps to Prepare for Future Home Financing and Year-End Financial Checklist

Home Buyer Tips, ,
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to take a step back and review your financial health, especially if you plan to purchase a home next year. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, proper preparation can make all the difference when securing a mortgage with favorable terms. Here's a comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re financially ready for home financing in the year ahead. 1. Review Your Credit Score Your credit score is one of the most important factors lenders will consider when deciding whether to approve your mortgage application and what interest rate…
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