A reverse mortgage isn’t paid back in monthly payments (no payment to make), so don’t think of it that way. The key number to focus … Read More

Buying a house often feels like solving a puzzle where the pieces never quite fit. You’d love to have this house, but you lack the … Read More

But home equity isn’t just a static amount. Home equity is defined by two competing factors: The value of your house rising (which increase your … Read More

Maybe you used a HELOC (“home equity line of credit”) to consolidate your debts or fund a renovation project, which is fine, since at first … Read More

Regarding the HELOC, they say, “I’m remodeling my kitchen. I’ll take out some home equity. Monthly payments look reasonable. Whew!” Later: “Oops, now it’s time … Read More

A house become an investment. It’s a financial tool. You can sell it for cash. Or you can hang onto it for wealth. But here’s … Read More

If you’re still carrying a mortgage and you live in a market where rates have fallen, maybe you’re stuck with a high-interest mortgage that feels … Read More

Open your mortgage statement and read closely: the math won’t always be what you expected. Refinancing could helps; or hurt. The temptation is often immediate … Read More

You may see a large amount called prepaid reserves at closing. It is not a fee; it is money you hold in escrow. This sum … Read More

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, seeing an “interest” line item on a bill before the loan even began is a jolt. Why should I pay … Read More