First-time Homebuyers Information

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There is a range of tax deductions homebuyers or homeowners can use to lower their tax bill. Learn which tax breaks apply to your and what tax forms to use.

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about How does buying a house affect taxes

If you’re thinking of buying a house out of state, this article has all the tips and tools you’ll need to complete your out-of-state home purchase remotely.

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about Buying a house out of state

We’ll show you how to budget for a mortgage payment so that you can break down your monthly payment, examine your monthly budget, and assess how much you can afford....

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about How to budget for your monthly mortgage payment

Home inspections give buyers peace of mind before closing on a home. Here’s a checklist and tips to help you prep for this process.

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about The essential home inspection checklist for homebuyers

Working with the right real estate agent can give you an enormous advantage as a homebuyer. See the best strategies for how to find a realtor, including key questions to...

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about How to find a realtor

Yes, you can use money in a 401(k) account to buy a house. But should you? Learn whether it makes sense to use your 401(k) for a down payment and...

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about Can I use a 401(k) to buy a house?

Try this interactive amortization calculator to find the amortization schedule for any fixed-rate mortgage.

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about Free mortgage amortization calculator and table

Can you still buy a home if you have student loan debt? Turns out you have some options. Here’s what you should know about getting a mortgage.

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about Yes, you can buy a home—even with student loans!

The highest offer doesn’t always win, and there are ways to win against all-cash buyers. Here’s how to win a bidding war on a house to get the home you...

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about How to win a real estate bidding war in a competitive market

Understand how long pre-approval remains valid and when you should start the process.

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about How long does a mortgage pre-approval last?

For one local man, being able to live on the river is much more than a perk—it’s personal.

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about Finding Home: Fred

Before you can close on a home or refinance a property, an underwriter will need to verify your income, debts, and assets. See what docs they need and why.

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about Getting your mortgage docs in a row

Here’s an intro to how FHA loans work, how to qualify, and which types of borrowers might be a good match for this type of mortgage.

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about What is an FHA loan and what it does for you

Tips for comparing the affordability of renting and buying a home, and deciding which one might be right for you.

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about Should I rent or buy a house?

Here’s what our underwriters take into consideration when reviewing applications from self-employed borrowers.

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about Self-employed? Here’s how to get a mortgage

Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important (and difficult) parts of buying a house. Here are some tips to help you make that decision.

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about How to decide where to buy a house

There is more to a mortgage than meets the eye. Here’s what a mortgage really is, how it works, and the different options available.

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about What is a mortgage

Discover the best places to live in New Jersey, what’s unique about the real estate market, how to find a New Jersey Realtor, plus 7 steps to buy a home.

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about How to stay sane when buying a home in NJ

Considering an out-of-state move? Don’t overlook these cities with lower costs of living and affordable homebuying options.

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about 10 of the most affordable cities in the US for homebuyers

Can you qualify for a mortgage? You might want to check your credit score. Learn how lenders handle your credit score and how you can improve it.

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about How your credit score affects your mortgage
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