Finance With Factor

I share some perspective, misconceptions, and facts regarding the recent headlines that lower #creditscore, borrowers are getting better #rates than #homebuyers with better #credit. I also discuss the proposed DTI adjustments that should have grabbed the headlines and why organizations like, @nardotrealtor and @mortgage_bankers_association are celebrating an important victory to repeal the proposed DTI pricing hits!

New England summer rentals from the coast of Maine to the NH Lakes to the Cape and Islands are nearly booked solid (already). The desire to own a second home or investment property in these areas can be tempting. Dan Neske, realtor with The Agency - Cape Cod, shares his experience and insights on recent trends and why balancing your short-term vs. long-term goals is the key to finding the right dream home for your goals.

When buying a condo, apartment, or townhouse, condo approval is an important part of the process.  It can also be the "scariest" part of the process...but it doesn't have to be, if you take the time as a buyer, lender, realtor, or homeowner to do your homework and understand the unique nature of your unit and the process.  Tonia Magliaro, one of the nation's top producing condo specialists with Movement Mortgage, joins the podcast to share recent changes and points of emphasis for condo approval--and, her tips on how to avoid surprises to ensure your purchase/sale goes smoothly.  

DON'T believe all the headlines you read about the recently announced loan level price adjustments (LLPAs). You should NOT take the advice of your favorite new reader or TickToc realtor suggesting that you should tank your credit to get better rates!! This is NOT true!! I briefly discuss the LLPAs (which were implemented in early January) to try and change the narrative on this incorrectly reported spin. As realtors, lenders, and homebuyers, we should instead focus on the positives the adjustments will have for homebuyers--especially first time home buyers! Amy Sault, realtor with Custom Home Realty, joins me to discuss our stories (personal and clients) of how buying "young" can have long-lasting benefits.  We discuss strategies and tips that first time homebuyers can use in a competitive market.

As Shakespeare wrote (in the original script), "to claim or not to claim that is the question."  Joel Fanjoy, of William Raveis Insurance, shares tips and advice on when to speak with your agent, when to place a claim, and the impact certain variables can have on your premium and renewals. A short episode that can potentially save you or your real estate clients a lot of money over the years!

In MA, a onetime fee of $35 and gives your $500k in Homestead Insurance coverage. But, what is it, why is it such a good buy, and why should I get it? Luke Brown, real estate attorney with Crowley and Cummings, teaches us why every homebuyer (in any state) should make sure they have Homestead Insruance, when buying a new primary home.

If you plan to buy within the next 2 years or you purchased a home (but want to refi as soon as rates fall), your tax returns can make a dramatic impact on your qualifications.  I highly encourage real estate owners, investors, and self-employed business owners to listen to this episode. Sheila May, of May Tax Services, shares important tips and tricks homeowners and aspiring homeowners should consider before you push send on your next tax return!

Realtors, like many small business owners, often feel like they are a one-man band responsible for every aspect of their business. The reality is most of us got into the our business because we are good at a particular skill set. Laryssa Hiller, owner of Compass Points Accounting, and I discuss our experiences, growing pains, and the new opportunities that came with learning to let go of certain tasks and responsibilities...

Erin Richardson, of Richardson Insurance, value community service projects as part of their marketing strategies. She explains how they pick where to get involved and how that involvement has grown naturally (and strategically) over the years…as proof, we met because they sponsored my son’s t-ball team. If you are a realtor or small business owner looking to build your name within the community, Erin shares great tips on how you can become a local leader.