Shelter Insurance Homeowner’s Policy Review

One of the biggest investments you will ever make is your home. In the event of an unexpected loss, you need a homeowner’s insurance company you can depend on to restore your home and its contents to their previous condition. One company that deserves consideration for your homeowner’s insurance needs is Shelter Insurance. Shelter Insurance … Read more

Types of Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent coverage that’s offered in a range of “styles” to suit different needs. Since permanent coverage, including whole life, is more expensive than temporary or “term” coverage, many of the different types of whole life insurance have evolved to help owners manage the cost of premiums. But other … Read more

Which Is Best for You?

Starter home Forever home Definition A home you plan to own for a short period before buying another one The only home you plan to buy Home features May have drawbacks in size, location, or other features Must meet both current and future needs Cost Typically cheaper Typically more expensive Mortgage May prefer an ARM … Read more

5 Types of Mortgage Loans

If you’re like most people, you’ll need to take out a mortgage to buy a home. According to the US Census Bureau, 94% of people who bought a home in 2021 purchased it with a mortgage. When you start shopping for a mortgage, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are lots of different types of … Read more

Today’s Mortgage Rates & Trends, May 9, 2022

Average 30- and 15-year mortgage rates climbed back toward their recent peaks, the latest in a series of up-and-down swings. The average on a conventional 30-year fixed mortgage rose to 5.92% from 5.77% the previous business day. Last month it reached 6.19%, its highest point since at least 2019, and likely much farther back. (Our … Read more

Best Ways To Use a HELOC

If you’re looking for flexible funding, you can tap into your home equity with a home equity line of credit (HELOC). A HELOC is a revolving line of credit that uses your home as collateral. Using a HELOC can be risky, so homeowners typically use them for major life expenses, not daily expenses. Let’s learn … Read more

Is a Reverse Mortgage a Ripoff?

Reverse mortgages are special types of loans that give older homeowners a way to turn their home equity into a source of income they can use during retirement. When they move out or die, the lender usually takes and sells the home to repay the loan. There are some benefits to reverse mortgages, but there … Read more

What Is an Enhanced Life Estate Deed?

Key Takeaways An enhanced life estate deed transfers ownership of property after the owner’s death without the necessity for probate. The owner retains control of the property after the deed is in place and during their lifetime, unlike with standard life estate deeds. Enhanced life estate deeds were recognized by only five states as of … Read more

What Is the Fair Housing Act?

Definition and Example of the Fair Housing Act The Fair Housing Act is a law enacted in 1968 and has been updated several times since its inception. The law is enforced by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Fair Housing Act prohibits lenders, landlords, sellers, and agents from discriminating against homebuyers … Read more