What Is a Hard Money Loan? A Guide to Hard Money Lending

But what is a hard money lender? Hard money lenders offer loans based primarily on the value of the property being purchased or used as collateral. This approach can help borrowers secure financing when traditional lenders hesitate or take too long. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate investor or exploring property financing for the first

No Doc Business Loans: What You Need to Know

While “no doc” is short for “no documentation,” there are actually no true no doc loans. Instead, they’re low doc loans that require minimal paperwork for loan approval. This approach caters to the needs of business owners who may face challenges in providing the extensive financial documentation required by traditional lenders, such as tax returns,

BRRRR Method: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, & Repeat

Read on to learn more about BRRRR loans and explore how this approach can open doors to lucrative opportunities.  What Is the BRRRR Method? BRRRR stands for buy, rehab, rent, refinance, and repeat. The BRRRR real estate investment method is a strategy investors use to build a real estate portfolio and maximize returns by following

How Does Mortgage Interest Work?

First-time and even seasoned home buyers typically ask their mortgage lender many questions during the home buying process, such as “What is the interest rate on a mortgage?” and “What factors determine mortgage interest rates?”. Fortunately, the experts at Griffin Funding can help answer these questions and more. Let’s take a deep dive into how

How to Use a Self-Directed IRA for Real Estate?

Offering you the best of both worlds, a self-directed IRA for real estate, or SDIRA, offers the preferential tax treatment of an IRA with the flexibility and autonomy to invest in real estate opportunities. Whether you want a fix-and-flip property, a long-term rental opportunity, or a short-term vacation rental solution, a self-directed IRA for real

What Is High-Net-Worth Lending?

That is exactly what high-net-worth lending is. It includes a more personalized level of service that is often customized to someone’s entire financial life. Not only do these types of loans usually come with lower interest rates when compared to traditional ones, but they also have longer repayment periods. This guide will cover high-net-worth lending

5-8 Unit Commercial Multifamily Financing

In this article, we’ll discuss 5-8 unit commercial multifamily financing, exploring the unique opportunities associated with this niche real estate market. Whether you’re a seasoned investor looking to expand your portfolio or a newcomer exploring the potential of commercial multifamily properties, understanding multifamily financing is crucial for making informed decisions.  Keep reading to learn more

What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?

This insurance serves as a safety net, offering financial protection in the face of unforeseen events that could damage or destroy your home. Understanding what homeowners insurance covers is essential for any new homeowner, as it provides peace of mind and shields against the financial consequences of unexpected events, from natural disasters to theft or

ADU Loans: How to Finance an ADU

In this article, we’ll explore various methods and loans for financing ADUs to help you capitalize on this growing trend.  What Is an ADU? An ADU is a secondary living space located on the same property as the primary residence. Also known as an in-law suite, ADUs are separate living quarters equipped with the same

Why Should I Buy a House?

Beyond the practical necessity of having a place to call home, purchasing real estate is often viewed as a symbol of stability and achievement, signifying a step toward a more rooted and secure future. The decision goes beyond the transaction of buying property and entails an evaluation of priorities, lifestyle choices, and the desire to

Refinance an Investment Property: What to Know

In this article, we’ll discuss the key benefits and considerations associated with refinancing an investment property. From evaluating your options to the loan process, we’ll provide you with the knowledge and insights you need to make strategic decisions that align with your investment goals. 8 Reasons to Refinance an Investment Property When you first start

How to Build a Real Estate Portfolio

From understanding the fundamentals of real estate investments to setting clear financial goals, each element contributes to the overall success of your real estate portfolio. Whether you’re a seasoned investor seeking expansion or a beginner eager to tap into real estate, this guide will provide insights into the key factors that shape a thriving real

15 Questions to Ask a Mortgage Lender

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people make in their lifetimes. With the wide availability of mortgages and various options among lenders, the process can be exciting and overwhelming, even if you’ve purchased a home before. It’s crucial to know what questions to ask a mortgage lender to ensure

How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?

One of the most popular ways to access your home equity is to use a home equity loan (HELOAN). Home equity loans are structured as second mortgages, but they can be especially beneficial for homeowners looking to finance large expenses. Since the loan is secured by the home itself, HELOANs often come with lower interest

Tax Haven: 9 States With No Income Tax

Many corporations and individuals strive to maximize their money by avoiding paying local and federal taxes. A tax haven is a jurisdiction known for offering minimal tax liabilities, like states without income taxes. While often associated with far-off islands, the concept of a tax haven is also relevant in the US. Some large businesses and

Short-Term Mortgages

The right mortgage program can help you save money while paying off your debt. While 30-year mortgages are the most common, they’re not your only option. Some borrowers may prefer a short-term mortgage that allows them to save on interest payments and pay off their home in a shorter amount of time. Unfortunately, short-term mortgages

Average Home Appreciation Per Year

When considering homeownership, many people think beyond the immediate shelter and security of a home and lean into its potential as an investment vehicle. Over the years, real estate has proven to be a cornerstone of many wealth-building strategies and a tangible asset that carries emotional and practical value. The dynamics of the housing market,

When Is Your First Mortgage Payment Due?

Understanding your mortgage can be challenging, especially if you’re a first-time home buyer. Among the many details to consider, understanding when your first mortgage payment is due is crucial to budgeting and overall financial planning. If you’re wondering, “When is my first mortgage payment due,” you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll

Fair Market Value (FMV) Explained

When buying or selling a house, you’ll often hear the term “fair market value” or FMV. This concept plays a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of real estate transactions. FMV helps sellers understand the right price point to list their property to ensure it’s neither overpriced nor undervalued. On the other hand, buyers use

Understanding Notice of Default: How to Respond to a Default Notice

Homeownership is a significant investment. Like all major financial commitments, you’ll have several responsibilities when you own a home, primarily keeping up with mortgage payments. Due to unforeseen circumstances, such as job loss, medical emergencies, or other financial hardships, homeowners may struggle to make timely mortgage payments. In these situations, they might encounter terms like

Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons

A reverse mortgage allows homeowners over the age of 62 to leverage their home’s equity without selling or moving. These loans offer seniors a method of supplementing their retirement income, paying for medical expenses, or undertaking home improvements. Instead of the homeowner paying the lender like a traditional mortgage, in a reverse mortgage, the lender

How to Buy a House Without a Realtor

For many, the home-buying journey is accompanied by a realtor who acts as a guide, offering expertise on market conditions, property evaluations, and negotiations. Realtors have a depth of knowledge and experience and can provide invaluable support when buying a house. However, many buyers may walk this path solo and forgo the conventional route of

Understanding Mortgage Forbearance

When unexpected events happen, homeowners might face difficulties in making regular mortgage payments. One tool at their disposal during unforeseen financial crises is mortgage forbearance. But what is the meaning of mortgage forbearance, how does it work, and who qualifies? There are various safety nets that ensure unexpected events don’t immediately result in the loss

Qualifying for a Mortgage: What You Need to Know

Homeownership is a dream for many, symbolizing stability, investment, and the creation of lasting memories. However, before you can pick up the keys to your dream home, there’s a significant hurdle to overcome: securing a mortgage. For many aspiring homeowners, the mortgage application process can seem daunting, filled with jargon, paperwork, and numerous financial checks.

What Does a Mortgage Broker Do?

Finding the right lender and loan program can be a daunting experience for home buyers. A mortgage broker who acts as an intermediary between lenders and buyers can help guide you through the mortgage process and secure the most favorable loan terms. A mortgage broker’s role goes beyond facilitating the mortgage transaction. They understand a

Freddie Mac vs. Fannie Mae: Key Differences Explained

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are government-sponsored entities (GSEs) that play pivotal roles in maintaining the mortgage market’s liquidity, stability, and affordability. By purchasing and guaranteeing mortgages from lenders, these entities ensure funds are consistently available for individuals wanting to buy homes, refinance their mortgages, or tap into their home’s equity with home equity loans.

Are Home Warranties Worth It?

Every homeowner knows the peace of mind that comes with insuring their property. However, beyond the typical homeowner’s insurance, you may want to consider another type of coverage—the home warranty. Unlike homeowner’s insurance, a home warranty is a service contract that covers repairs and replacements of major appliances and home systems that break due to

Ultimate Guide to VA Loan Termite Inspections

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) presents an attractive financing option for veterans and their families looking to purchase a home. However, there are specific standards and procedures that must be met to ensure the quality and safety of the property being purchased. Unfortunately, the VA’s guidelines and a lender’s criteria can make VA loans

Mortgage Rate Lock Extension Fees Explained

A home is the largest investment many people make in their lifetimes. Unfortunately, the mortgage process can be complicated for first-time homebuyers who don’t know its intricacies and the different steps. One such intricacy is the mortgage rate lock extension and its associated fees. When you’re in the process of getting a mortgage, the interest

Understanding APR vs. Interest Rate

For borrowers, understanding the distinctions between APR vs. interest rate can mean the difference between securing an affordable loan or spending too much in the long run. Both APR and interest rates determine how much a loan will cost. However, they encompass diverse aspects of that total cost. When comparing APR and interest rate, it’s

House Titles: The Ultimate Guide

Being a property owner comes with many responsibilities and documents. One concept people misunderstand is the house title. A house title is the legal notion of property ownership and signifies the bundle of rights associated with a piece of property. Unlike the deed, the house title isn’t a document. Instead, it’s a concept that encapsulates

When to Notify a Mortgage Company of Death

When someone passes away, their family is typically responsible for tying up their loose ends, which may mean contacting the mortgage company. If a deceased individual had an outstanding mortgage balance, notifying the mortgage company as soon as possible can clarify the next steps concerning the property and repayment of debts. Failure to communicate this

Blended Rate Calculator

Our blended interest rate calculator is designed to take the guesswork out of the equation. With this calculator, you can effortlessly input multiple interest rates, and it will instantly provide you with a unified, single rate. The blended rate calculator makes understanding interest rates easier, ensuring accuracy. Keep reading to learn how to calculate a

401(k) Withdrawal for Home Purchase

Saving for a down payment and being able to prove your ability to repay a home loan can be challenging, especially if you don’t have a traditional job. However, alternative options exist, depending on your unique financial situation. If you have a 401(k) retirement account, you may be able to tap into it as income

How to Buy a House With Low Income

Are you wondering how to buy a house with low income? Buying a house with a low income can be a significant challenge, particularly with existing mortgage requirements and the competitive nature of the housing market. On the other hand, low income houses are available, and income-based loans can make it easier for people with

Conventional Loan Requirements

Conventional loans are the most common type of mortgage product. Unfortunately, they can be more difficult to qualify for due to stringent requirements that can prevent some types of borrowers from achieving their dreams of homeownership. Conventional loans are provided by private lenders, they’re not backed by government agencies. Instead, the requirements for these loans

How Long is a Pre-Approval Good For?

A mortgage pre-approval is one of the first steps you should take after making the decision to buy a home. Obtaining a mortgage pre-approval letter gives you negotiating power when shopping for homes and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Unfortunately, your mortgage pre-approval letter won’t last forever. So how long is a pre-approval good

What Is Tappable Equity?

For many, a home is the most significant investment they’ll make. But what’s the point of investing in a home if you don’t use that investment to better your life? According to Black Knight, total mortgage holder equity topped $16 trillion again in June of 2023, with tappable equity – the amount that can be

A Guide to MCA Loans

A merchant cash advance (MCA) loan is a type of lending that is based on the average value of credit and debit card receipts taken in by a business. Merchant cash advances typically have a short application process, no credit check requirements, and are typically approved in 1-3 days. While there may be times where

Bank Statement Loan Calculator

Becoming a homeowner is a big step, and you must be financially prepared. Asking yourself, “How much house can I afford?” can help you determine whether you’ll qualify for a loan based on income, debt obligations, down payment, housing expenses, available funds, loan terms, and more. Use our bank statement loan calculator to help you

How Much Are Closing Costs?

Buying a home is still a huge part of the American dream. Nevertheless, to achieve this goal, your actions must be anchored in reality. Closing costs are one of the most commonly overlooked parts of purchasing a home. Unfortunately, many prospective homeowners fail to fully calculate closing costs and incorporate them into their home buying

Is Property Tax Deductible?

When you purchase a home, you’ll be required to pay various fees, such as homeowner’s insurance and property taxes. Property taxes are paid to local governments to fund essential services like schools, police, and fire departments. Unfortunately, depending on where you live and the value of your home, property taxes can be costly. Paying property

Debt Consolidation Calculator

If you’re looking for ways to get out of debt, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with paying off debt and keeping their finances in good shape. Debt can even have a negative impact during the mortgage underwriting process and make it harder to purchase a home. However, it can be difficult to manage multiple

PMI vs MIP

A home is often one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make. Unfortunately, not everyone realizes the various costs of taking out a mortgage. Apart from your monthly mortgage premium, you’ll be responsible for everything from closing costs and administrative fees to mortgage insurance. The type of mortgage insurance you may be responsible for

A Guide to VA Loan Points

VA loan points are the same as loan points on a conventional mortgage, but they may not be as advantageous as they may seem. The act of buying down points is one of reducing the amount of interest you pay. The general rule of thumb is that you can lower the interest rate by an

Tax Benefits of Real Estate Investing

Investing in real estate can help you build wealth over time while expanding your portfolio with new opportunities. In addition, the tax benefits of real estate investing make it even more appealing for new and veteran investors alike. Tax deductions for rental properties are one of the most significant benefits of investing in real estate,

USDA Loan Pros and Cons

Homeownership can be expensive, but with the right mortgage, you can save thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. With so many options available for borrowers, home buyers may forget about government-backed programs like the USDA loan. USDA loans are guaranteed by the Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan program from the US Department

What Is APR on a Loan?

Taking out a loan costs money. When you take out a loan, you’ll see various terms on your paperwork that can help you estimate your total costs, such as interest, APY, and APR. Knowing what these terms mean can help you determine if a loan or credit card is right for you based on your

Home Equity Line of Credit

Leveraging the equity you’ve built up in your home can help you pay for large expenses at a lower interest rate than other types of debt like personal loans or credit cards. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a second mortgage that allows you to start using your home’s equity to increase cash

The VA Loan Pre-Approval Process

Both veterans and active military service members can qualify for a VA loan if they meet the minimum qualifications. If you’re hoping to buy a home with a VA loan, then consider getting pre-approved for a VA loan as one of the first steps in the lending process. With VA home loan pre-approval, you can

How to Calculate ROI on a Rental Property

Investing in rental property can help you grow your wealth, but it also comes with a different set of responsibilities than any other type of real estate investment. When you invest in rental properties, you’re responsible for everything from handling tenant issues and maintenance requests to calculating your return on investment (ROI) to ensure you

100 Percent Disabled Veteran Home Loan

The VA loan allows for 100% financing for eligible borrowers. Active duty service members, veterans, and surviving spouses can apply for a VA loan with zero percent down. Of course, there are additional fees involved with home loans, such as closing costs. But, there are several benefits for disabled veterans that make the VA loan

Real Estate Investing for Beginners

Investing in real estate has major benefits, like growing your wealth and passively generating income without getting a second job. There are many ways to invest in real estate, including house flipping, rental properties, REITs, syndication, and online investment platforms. Real estate investing for beginners can initially seem daunting, but once you get the hang

VA Loan Calculator

VA loans are government-backed home loans created for military members, veterans, and military spouses with a validated Certificate of Eligibility. VA loans offer numerous benefits, such as low VA loan rates, zero money required for a down payment, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirements. In addition, the Va loan process is relatively simple if

How to Get a Mortgage

Most home buyers need a mortgage to afford their dream homes. Unfortunately, getting a mortgage for the first time can be intimidating. However, once you’ve gone through the process once, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to get a mortgage in the future. Knowing how to get a mortgage will ensure you have all

Second Mortgage vs Refinance

With a second mortgage or refinance, you can tap into your home’s equity to increase your cash flow, pay off debt, or afford large purchases. But which option is right for you? When comparing a second mortgage vs. refinance, you should consider your goals. With both options, you can leverage your home’s equity. However, with

VA Restoration of Entitlement

VA entitlement is a benefit veterans are eligible for that allows them to get qualify for a VA loan. Entitlement is available to veterans who meet certain requirements, which include at least 90 days of active-duty service. In the event that you default on a VA loan, you typically lose your VA entitlement. Have you

How to Sell Your House

Having a stress-free home selling process is crucial for anyone wondering how to sell their home. Most people don’t want to invest too much time or money into the process and often choose to work with professionals to help them sell their homes. Unfortunately, selling a home is complicated, and there’s a lot the homeowner

A Guide to NINA Loans

Investing in real estate can help you passively build wealth over time — whether you purchase a primary residence or an investment property. If you’re like most buyers, you need a mortgage loan to help you purchase a home, but there are so many options available that finding the right one can be challenging. Conventional

2/1 Buydown Calculator

A 2/1 buydown mortgage is a type of mortgage that allows the borrower to reduce the amount of interest paid during the first two years of the mortgage. It’s similar to buying points that reduce the interest rates but typically lasts for a period of two years. You could potentially save a lot on interest and enjoy

What Is a VA ARM Loan?

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) backs mortgage loans taken out by eligible service members and veterans who obtain financing through the VA home loan program. In doing so, eligible borrowers are able to take full advantage of a number of benefits, including no down payment, competitive interest rates, and lower VA loan closing