Identity theft is a fast-growing type of crime. Are you doing enough to protect yourself? Here are some simple yet effective ways to help prevent someone from stealing your personal information. Carry as little information as possible with you... (Read More)

The appraisal is an important part of the home buying process. But what happens if an appraisal comes up short of the agreed-upon selling price? Here's an example: A home is listed for sale at $350,000. It's a multiple bidding situation, so you... (Read More)

Have you been thinking about refinancing? Millions of Americans are saving money by refinancing their homes at today's historically low mortgage rates. Think refinancing is too complex, costly and/or time consuming? Not sure if you would even... (Read More)

Have you been watching mortgage rates and trying to decide if refinancing is right for you? There are a number of factors that go into the decision to refinance your home. Refinancing is more than just an opportunity to get a new mortgage rate... (Read More)

Buying your first home? Congratulations! There's a reason they call it "home sweet home." Some of your greatest joys in life will be found within those walls. As you become a homeowner, you'll find yourself contemplating ways to protect your... (Read More)

The VA home loan program is one of the most flexible and attractive ways to finance a home today. There's no set downpayment requirement*, no private mortgage insurance and rates are lower compared with some other types of loan programs. It's also... (Read More)

Do you understand the difference between a property appraisal and a home inspection? Surveys show that many home buyers - even those who have purchased homes before - have some level of confusion about these two key aspects of a home purchase... (Read More)

Considering how hectic each day can get, home maintenance may be the last thing on your busy mind. But keeping your home in shape from top to bottom can provide delightful dividends for you and your family. After all, a home is usually happiest when... (Read More)

We all want our homes to be healthy and safe places for our families. That's why we want to share with you three easy ways to help keep your home free of some common (and even deadly) hazards: Check and periodically replace smoke and carbon... (Read More)

You're ready to buy a home. You have a great job, good credit and you're prepped for the responsibility of homeownership. But what about the down payment? Coming up with enough money to put down on a home can be one of the toughest parts of a home... (Read More)