The LTV Ratio: How ‘Loan-to-Value’ Works and Why You Need to Understand This Ratio

Are you in the market for a new home? If you plan on using mortgage financing to buy your next home you've likely heard the phrase "loan-to-value" or the acronym "LTV" before. Let's take a quick look at the loan-to-value ratio including why it's important, how to calculate it, and how it can affect your mortgage. What is the Loan-to-Value or LTV Ratio? In short, the LTV ratio is a number that compares how much money you owe against your home with its resale value in the marketplace. A low LTV ratio indicates that you have far more equity in…
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Crafting a Counter-offer That Doesn’t Scare Away a Potential Home Buyer

Crafting a counter-offer that doesn't scare away a potential home buyer can be tricky. Here are five tips to help you navigate the negotiation process while keeping the buyer interested: Keep emotions in check: Avoid letting your emotions drive the conversation and try to remain objective throughout the negotiation process. Keep in mind that the buyer is also looking for a fair deal, and it's important to approach negotiations with a collaborative attitude. Understand the buyer's needs: Understanding the buyer's needs and motivations can help you craft a counter-offer that meets their expectations. For example, if the buyer is seeking…
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Everything Homeowners Need To Know About Down Payments

Buying a house is an exciting time, but homeowners also need to make the best financial decision to meet their needs. One of the biggest decisions potential homeowners will face is how much money to put down. A down payment is the amount of money that homeowners pay upfront when they purchase a home. Many homeowners believe they need to put down 20 percent; however, this is not always the case. What do homeowners need to know about putting a down payment on a house?  20 Percent Is Not Always Required The reason why homeowners often believe they need to…
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