Getting to know ESCROW
If you’re a current homeowner or in the process of buying a home, you’ve probably heard the word “escrow”. It’s one of those mortgage terms that gets used often but isn’t always clearly explained. So, let’s break it down. More
PMI: The Not-So-Secret Cost of Putting Less Down
Saving for a down payment is one of the biggest hurdles to buying a home. For many buyers (especially first-time buyers), coming up with 20% upfront just isn’t realistic. The good news? You don’t always need to put that much down to buy a home. The catch? You may ... More
The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act Explained: What Homebuyers Need to Know
Buying a home is a milestone filled with excitement and, let’s be honest, a fair amount of stress. Between balancing budgets, paperwork, and the whirlwind of emotions, the last thing any homebuyer needs is a flood of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails as soon as they've applied for a ... More
Facing the Divide: How we can create a more equitable housing market
Homeownership has long been considered a key part of the American Dream - serving as a symbol of stability, opportunity, and a major stepping stone to building generational wealth. But for far too many individuals and families, especially those from historically marginalized communities, that dream has remained out of reach. &... More
Co-Signing and Co-Borrowing: What You Need to Know
Ever wondered why a cousin or parent might co-sign on your loan - or why someone might choose to co-borrow with you? Both roles can help you qualify for a mortgage, but they come with different rights, responsibilities, and relationship dynamics. At Summit Mortgage, we’re here to clarify it ... More
Comparing and Calculating Cost of Living
When you’re looking for a place to settle down and purchase a home, the cost of living is a crucial factor to consider. It impacts everything from housing affordability to daily expenses like groceries and transportation. Understanding how to compare and calculate the cost of living can help you ... More
Understanding and Managing Property Taxes
Understanding the factors influencing property taxes and strategies to manage these costs is important knowledge for first-time homebuyers and seasoned homeowners alike. While the principal and interest portion of a fixed-rate mortgage payment doesn’t change from year to year, total mortgage payments can be impacted due to changing property ... More
Preparing For a Down Payment: Year-End Savings Strategies
As the year comes to an end, you may be beginning to think about your financial goals for the new year. As aspiring homeowners, saving for a ... More
