Understanding Earnest Money vs. Due Diligence Fees
August 24, 2023
What is Due Diligence? The term "due diligence" refers to a period during which the buyer has the right to inspect the property, conduct a title search, get an appraisal, and ensure everything is as it should be. The due diligence time period is usually stipulated in the purchase contract, and it's an essential part of the home buying process. The ...
Robyn MooringWhat to Know Before Replacing Windows in Your Home
August 17, 2023
Q&A With Darryl Hodge In this Q&A, Darryl not only explains when windows should be replaced but outlines the pros and cons of the different types of window materials. Q: When should windows be replaced? Windows should be replaced when they start to show signs of wear and tear, damage, or if they become inefficient. Here are some signs that...
Robyn Mooring6 Most Worthwhile Energy-Efficient Home Improvements
July 27, 2023
What is an Energy-Efficient Home? An energy-efficient home is one that reduces unnecessary energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and its demand for non-renewable resources. Chad points out that "it's more than just light bulbs." He believes that for new homes, it starts with design and carries through to incorporating energy-efficient elements thro...
Robyn MooringThe Path to Homeownership: How to Save for a Down Payment
July 24, 2023
What is a Down Payment? The idea of buying a home is exciting, but it requires a significant financial commitment. One of the most substantial expenses you'll need to prepare for is the down payment. Your down payment is a lump sum payment made upfront when you buy a house. It directly affects the mortgage amount you'll need to borrow and the size ...
Robyn MooringUnderstanding the 2023 Mortgage Fee Changes: Implications for Homebuyers
July 13, 2023
#RootsRunDeep As a prospective homebuyer, you may have heard about the mortgage fee changes that took effect on May 1, 2023. These changes were implemented by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and affect conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. They sparked considerable debate due to their potential impact on borrowers with ...
Robyn MooringMortgages for Beginners
June 26, 2023
The Basics of Home Financing Before we walk through the different types of mortgage loans available, it's important to have a general understanding of some of the basic home financing terms. What is a mortgage? Buying a home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make. Thankfully though, you don't have to pay the entire amount upfront. Instead...
Robyn Mooring