Reverse Mortgage: What the AARP Suit Means for You" alt="Reverse Mortgage: What the AARP Suit Means for You" />

Seniors who took reverse mortgages are being pushed into foreclosure by HUD, according to a lawsuit filed by the AARP. Are all seniors who took a reverse mortgage at risk? No, only those who decided to put only one spouse on the reverse mortgage. Why would a couple decide to leave a spouse off the reverse mortgage? Peter ... Continue Reading »

Renting as a Way to Strengthen Your Credit Report" alt="Renting as a Way to Strengthen Your Credit Report" />

Your dream is to buy a house, but all you can afford to do now is rent. You're wondering if renting can actually help you attain your goal of owning your first home. The answer is a definite yes, if you use the time you rent to build up your credit report and improve your finances so you can qualify for the best mortgage ... Continue Reading »

Fixing Your Credit After a Bankruptcy to Apply for a Mortgage" alt="Fixing Your Credit After a Bankruptcy to Apply for a Mortgage" />

When I first started working with Charlie (not his real name) in 2005, his bankruptcy had just been discharged, meaning his remaining debt was cleared. His credit score was 526, and he didn't think he had a chance to even get a credit card. Charlie's bankruptcy filing was needed after a difficult divorce and a medical ... Continue Reading »

Cheap Mortgage Rates: Don't Miss Out" alt="Cheap Mortgage Rates: Don't Miss Out" />

With cheap mortgage rates topping 5 percent for the first time since April 2010, it's time to start getting serious if you're thinking of buying a home. While rates are still historically low, as the government begins to make decisions about what to do with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, you can be certain of one thing -- ... Continue Reading »

Homebuyer Tax Credit Bills Coming Due in 2011" alt="Homebuyer Tax Credit Bills Coming Due in 2011" />

If you took advantage of the first time homebuyer tax credit in 2008, it's time to start repaying this interest -ree loan when you file your 2010 tax return by April 2011. But, if you used the homebuyer tax credits in 2009 or 2010, you won't ever have to repay the money unless you sell or otherwise dispose of your home ... Continue Reading »