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Should You Refinance for Cash Out?
02:24
What is VA Loan Residual Income?
01:49
The Importance of Checking Homeowners Insurance Premiums Before Buying a House
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The Importance of Checking Homeowners Insurance Premiums Before Buying a House

Are you considering buying a home in California or already own one? If so, you need to pay close attention to your homeowners insurance premiums. Recently, insurance companies have been leaving the state for various reasons, and this trend could significantly impact your finances and homeownership experience. As you embark on your journey to homeownership, it's crucial to understand the implications of these developments. Here's why checking your homeowners insurance premiums is more important than ever: Impact on Your Finances: Homeowners insurance premiums directly affect your monthly expenses. With insurance companies leaving California or increasing premiums, your monthly payments could skyrocket. This unexpected financial burden can strain your budget and make homeownership less affordable. Higher Closing Costs: When purchasing a home, closing costs can add up quickly. Insurance premiums are a significant component of these costs. If insurance companies are raising premiums or leaving the state, your closing costs will likely increase. Being aware of these potential expenses beforehand allows you to budget effectively and avoid any last-minute financial surprises. Long-Term Financial Commitment: Buying a house is a long-term investment, typically spanning several decades. Your mortgage payments, including insurance premiums, are commitments you'll need to uphold for years to come. Therefore, understanding the trajectory of insurance premiums helps you make informed decisions about your financial future. Availability of Coverage: With insurance companies exiting California, finding adequate coverage may become more challenging. Remaining insurers may impose stricter eligibility criteria or offer coverage at higher rates. By proactively assessing your insurance options, you can secure coverage that meets your needs without compromising your budget. Consultation with Experts: Engaging with insurance agents or experts is crucial during the homebuying process. They can provide insights into the evolving insurance landscape, including potential premium hikes or changes in coverage availability. Consulting with these professionals empowers you to navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance and make well-informed decisions. In light of these considerations, it's imperative to take proactive steps to safeguard your financial interests: Evaluate Your Current Coverage: Review your existing homeowners insurance policy and assess whether it meets your needs. Determine if your insurer plans to remain in California and if any premium increases are imminent. Compare Insurance Providers: Research alternative insurance companies operating in California. Obtain quotes from multiple insurers to compare coverage options and premiums. Doing so enables you to identify cost-effective solutions without compromising on coverage quality. Budget Accordingly: Factor in potential changes to insurance premiums when calculating your housing budget. Ensure that you can comfortably afford your monthly mortgage payments, including insurance costs, to avoid financial strain. Seek Professional Guidance: Don't hesitate to seek guidance from insurance agents, real estate professionals, or financial advisors. They can offer personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances and help you navigate the complexities of homeowners insurance. In conclusion, staying informed about homeowners insurance premiums is essential for anyone buying or owning a home in California. By understanding the implications of insurance industry trends and taking proactive measures, you can protect your financial well-being and enjoy peace of mind in your homeownership journey. Take the time to assess your insurance needs, explore available options, and make informed decisions that align with your long-term goals.
Navigating Remote Work: How It Impacts Mortgage Qualification
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Navigating Remote Work: How It Impacts Mortgage Qualification

🏡💼 Unlock the secrets to homebuying in the age of remote work! From navigating hourly rates to understanding variable compensation, we've got you covered. Check out our guide for mortgage qualifiers diving into the world of remote employment! #Homebuying #RemoteWork #MortgageTips 📝✨ Are you drawn to the independence and tranquility of remote work? Working from the comfort of your own space can be a dream come true. However, if you're considering buying a home while working remotely, it's essential to understand how this decision can affect your mortgage qualification. Here's what you need to know: Occupancy Requirement: When applying for certain home loans like USDA, FHA, VA, and some conventional loans, the lender may require you to occupy the purchased property as your primary residence. If your intent is to work remotely from this property, it shouldn't pose a problem as long as you meet other criteria. Stable Income: Mortgage underwriters prioritize stable and consistent income. Whether you're paid hourly or receive an annual salary, demonstrating steady earnings is crucial. If you earn variable income through overtime, bonuses, or commissions, it can still count towards your qualifying income. However, you'll need to prove its stability over the last two years through documentation like tax returns and verification from your employer. Permission to Work Remotely: Underwriters may need assurance that you have permission from your employer to work remotely indefinitely. This typically requires a letter from your employer confirming your remote work arrangement. This documentation helps underwriters assess your ability to maintain your income stream while working remotely. Every individual's situation is unique, considering factors like job type, length of remote work experience, and income variability. It's essential to consult with a trusted lender to understand how your specific circumstances may impact your mortgage qualification. Contact Terry Roberts at TerryRoberts.com to get personalized guidance and ensure you have a reliable pre-approval. Avoid the frustration of a denied loan after investing time and money into the homebuying process. With the right information and support, you can confidently pursue homeownership while enjoying the benefits of remote work.
Buying a House Without a Realtor: What You Need to Know
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Buying a House Without a Realtor: What You Need to Know

In recent times, the question of whether you need a realtor to buy a house has become more prevalent. There are various reasons behind this, with one of the primary ones being the rise of for sale by owner (FSBO) properties. Many home sellers opt to sell their homes without involving a realtor to save on commission fees, which typically amount to around 6% of the sale price. However, before diving into a home purchase without professional representation, it's crucial to understand the potential challenges and considerations involved, particularly from the buyer's perspective. Price Evaluation: As a buyer, determining the true value of a property is essential. Without the guidance of a realtor, it can be challenging to assess whether the asking price aligns with the property's market value. This is crucial, especially if you're planning to secure financing, as lenders will require an appraisal to ensure the property's value matches the loan amount. Navigating the Process: Beyond price evaluation, there are various logistical aspects to consider when purchasing a home without a realtor. These include negotiating terms of the agreement, scheduling inspections, choosing a title company, and coordinating with lenders. Without professional assistance, buyers may find themselves navigating these processes alone, potentially increasing the risk of oversights or misunderstandings. Mitigating Risks: One significant risk of buying a home without a realtor is the lack of protection and guidance throughout the transaction. For example, earnest money deposits, typically handled by a neutral third party like a title company, may become contentious if not handled correctly. Similarly, understanding the nuances of contract terms and contingencies becomes crucial to avoid potential legal issues down the line. Making Informed Decisions: While purchasing a home without a realtor is feasible, it requires careful consideration and thorough research. Buyers must assess the property's condition, evaluate comparable properties in the area, and weigh the potential savings against the added responsibilities and risks of handling the transaction independently. Conclusion: In conclusion, buying a house without a realtor is a decision that requires careful deliberation. While it may offer potential cost savings, it also entails additional responsibilities and risks. Whether you choose to proceed without professional representation or enlist the help of a realtor, it's essential to approach the homebuying process with diligence and informed decision-making to ensure a successful transaction. Contact me to learn more at www.terryroberts.com Terry Roberts, USMC Veteran | Sr. Loan Officer NMLS 397987 | Bell Bank Equal Housing Lender

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