Homes for Heroes Blog - Hero Stories, Savings, Tips and Partnerships

Is Buying a Cabin the Right Choice for Your Family?

September 22, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

Heroes often work hectic jobs that can be physically and emotionally draining. So, it’s natural that you want to get away and relax a little now and again. For many heroes, buying a cabin represents a true dream, a place to enjoy quiet time and make memories with family and friends. But is it the right move for your family? Purchasing a second home of any kind is a big decision and cabins can come with some special considerations. If you’ve been dreaming of owning your own private getaway, let’s look at some of the pros and cons of owning a cabin and what you need to consider when thinking about buying a cabin.

What is the Cost to Refinance a Home?

September 17, 2020September 17, 2020 / in Finance and Credit / by Luke Feldbrugge

Refinancing your mortgage can be a great way to save money. But you’re going to have to spend a little money to do it. As they say, “No pain, no gain.” That pain largely comes in the form of closing costs, and they can be significant. Here’s a detailed look at the cost to refinance a home and how you can save money now and in the future.

What Heroes Need to Know About Buying a Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic

September 14, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit some industries a lot harder than others. For real estate, there was a significant drop in home sales when the pandemic first hit. But in many parts of the country, the industry is settling into a new normal, continuing home sales, albeit with some slight adjustments to the process. In fact, some markets are hotter than ever, which has led many to ask themselves, “Should I buy a house now? And what do I need to know about buying a home during the COVID-19 pandemic?” Let’s try to answer those questions and consider what it means for those in hero professions in particular.

How are Property Taxes Calculated? What to Know When Buying a Home

September 10, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

Taxes are nobody’s favorite thing, and most of us would rather just not think about them. But they are an important part of home ownership and need to be a consideration as you begin the home buying process. Many first-time home buyers who are unfamiliar with the details often wonder, “How are property taxes calculated, how do I pay them and how often?” To help you navigate what can seem like a complex and difficult issue, here’s everything you need to know about property taxes.

What You Need to Know About Escrow: The Do’s and Don’ts of How Escrow Works

September 9, 2020September 9, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

Buying a home can sometimes be a long and difficult process. But when you find a home you love and your offer is accepted, the finish line appears near. This period is commonly referred to as “being in escrow” and there are a number of things you need to do — and not do — before closing. To help you achieve your dream of home ownership, here’s what you need to know about escrow in the form of the top do’s and don’ts when in escrow.

How to Refinance Your Home and Save

August 27, 2020 / in Finance and Credit / by Luke Feldbrugge

There are many reasons why you’d want to refinance your home. Maybe you want to pay off your home faster or use part of the equity you’ve built up to fund some home improvement projects. Maybe interest rates have gone down since you bought your home and you’re just looking to lower your monthly mortgage payment and save some money. Whatever the case may be, you’re going to need a solid plan and a good understanding of your financial situation to accomplish your goal. Here’s how to refinance your home and save money in the process.

Home Buying Trends and Forecasting for 2021

August 25, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Ian Cochran

The COVID-19 pandemic turned life upside down in ways both big and small. But despite all the disruption, the housing market has remained relatively stable. After a brief downturn in home sales at the start of the pandemic, mortgage rates remain near historic lows and buyers in many markets seem undeterred by the economic downturn as home sales rebounded and remain strong. But that doesn’t mean the real estate world has been completely unaffected. To help you make the most informed decision possible when buying or selling a home, here are some 2020 home buying trends as well as a forecast for what the market may look like in 2021.

What Does a Mortgage Loan Officer Do? How to Choose the Right Lender

August 18, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Homes for Heroes

If you are like many heroes, purchasing a home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. The loan officer you select becomes an integral part of that decision. A good loan officer can provide you value and support not just during the home purchasing process but afterwards as well.

Whether you’ve just begun your search or you’re still trying to determine if a loan officer is necessary for your home purchase, here are a few ways loan officers can add value to this vital transaction, at the point of sale and beyond.

Should I Buy a House in 2020?

June 22, 2020June 22, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

Buying a house is an important decision and major investment. It’s also a step toward the American dream. Like many Americans, our heroes can be hesitant to make the leap. Many heroes often ask, “Should I buy a house in 2020?” or “When is the best time to buy a house”? It’s a great question. It’s an important question. There are many advantages to becoming a homeowner. But, if your circumstances are questionable, then it might not be the best time to buy a house. Here are some historical trends and key housing market indicators for 2020 to consider before you decide to buy a home.

FHA Home Loans for Teachers | Eligible with Low Credit Score, Minimal Down Payment

May 8, 2020May 8, 2020 / in Buying a Home / by Luke Feldbrugge

Have you been considering buying a home but a less than perfect credit score, or a lack of savings for a down payment has been holding you back? In this post, Homes for Heroes explains how you can break through those issues with FHA Home Loans for teachers. The FHA Home Loan has been helping more teachers become homeowners due to its less restrictive credit score and minimal down payment requirements.