How Much Do You Need to Save for a Home Loan in 2025?

Most Americans need to get a mortgage to buy a home; current statistics state that 87% of home buyers use mortgage financing. But it is rare in 2025 to be able to buy a home for 100% of the purchase price. In most instances banks and lenders want the borrower to have skin in the… Read More »

How to Finance a Vacation Home in 2026

Owning a vacation home is a dream for many, offering a personal retreat and the potential for additional income through rental opportunities. However, financing a vacation home or investment property requires careful planning and understanding of mortgage loan options to secure favorable terms and low interest rates. How to Finance a Vacation Home with a… Read More »

How to Purchase a FSBO Home

Purchasing a home listed as “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) means buying directly from the homeowner without the involvement of a listing agent. The RefiGuide will help you navigate the process of buying and financing a FSBO home in 2026. Key Tips to Purchase a For Sale By Owner Home (FSBO) This process can offer… Read More »

Duplex Loan Guide

Duplex properties are an attractive investment for many buyers, offering the opportunity to live in one unit while renting out the other, or simply renting both for additional income. The RefiGuide can help you get connected to banks and mortgage lenders that offer investment financing and duplex loans with FHA, VA, conventional, non QM and… Read More »

Does Debt Consolidation Affect Buying a Home?

Debt consolidation is a proven financial strategy used by many individuals to manage and streamline their debt payments. By combining multiple debts into a single loan or payment, borrowers can potentially reduce their interest rates, simplify their finances, and lower monthly payments. However, when it comes to major financial decisions like buying a home, many… Read More »

Can I Change a Loan on a House Last Minute​?

Yes — you can change your loan late in the process, but the cost rises sharply as you approach closing. Switching lenders means starting underwriting over and usually costs you the appraisal, credit report, and any rate-lock fee already paid. Switching loan programs with the same lender — FHA to conventional, 30-year to 15-year, adjustable… Read More »

Credit Score to Qualify for VA Home Loan​

The dream of homeownership is a significant milestone for many, and for veterans and active-duty service members, the VA loan program offers a pathway to achieve this goal. Many active military members and veterans ask us: What credit score is necessary to qualify for a VA home loan? What Credit Score Do I Need to… Read More »

Can You Buy a Bank-Owned Home with an FHA Loan​?

Purchasing a bank-owned home, also known as a Real Estate Owned (REO) property, can be an attractive option for homebuyers seeking potentially lower prices. An FHA loan, insured by the Federal Housing Administration, offers a pathway to finance such purchases, especially for those with limited down payments or less-than-perfect credit. This article explores the feasibility… Read More »

Home Loans for Nurses

Homeownership is a significant milestone, and for nurses, there are specialized loan programs designed to facilitate this journey. These nurse home loan programs offer favorable terms, reduced costs, and tailored benefits to accommodate the unique financial situations of healthcare professionals. Nurse Home Loan Highlights There’s no single federal nurse mortgage. What exists is a mix… Read More »

What is the Good Neighbor Next Door Program

The Good Neighbor Next Door loan program was created from the Department of Housing and Urban Development in an effort to reward the good neighbors of our nation with affordable mortgage rates and low cost home loans. If you are a teacher, police officer, or firefighter, you may be eligible for buying a HUD home… Read More »