Homeowner & Buyers Guide: 3 Reliable Ways to Find Out What a Home Is Worth Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or just curious—knowing your home’s value is a powerful piece of the puzzle. But not all estimates are created equal. Here are three ways to get a solid sense of your property’s worth—plus when to […]
1. A Title Commitment Outlines the Conditions for Title Insurance A title commitment is a document issued by a title company that details the conditions under which they will provide title insurance. It serves as a preview of the title insurance policy you’ll receive after closing. This insurance protects you in case there are any title disputes after you purchase the
When it comes to big financial decisions in retirement, most aging parents aren’t looking for permission — they’re looking for partnership. Reverse mortgages can offer real relief, flexibility, and independence for seniors. But they also raise questions for adult children who want to protect their parents’ well-being and long-term legacy. Here’s how to be a
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when financing a home is choosing between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). And while one isn’t always “better” than the other, the right choice depends on your goals, timeline, and risk comfort — not just today’s rate. Let’s break down how each one works,
Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. There’s no shortage of advice out there, and unfortunately, not all of it is accurate or helpful. At Stairway Mortgage, we’ve helped hundreds of first-time buyers navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Here are the top mistakes we see — and
Let’s get this out of the way right now: You do NOT need 20% down to buy a home. You can put 20% down if it fits your goals… But you don’t have to. And for many people — especially first-time buyers — it might even slow you down unnecessarily. Let’s unpack what’s really going
Relocating to a new state is exciting — it’s a chance to start fresh, build something new, and step into the next chapter of your life. But without the right strategy, it can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare. You’re not just moving your belongings — you’re navigating new laws, new markets, and new timelines,
If you want to build a real estate portfolio, retire early, or just make smarter decisions with your home… You need a vision. Not a random “someday” plan — a clear picture of what you want over the next 5 years. And one of the most powerful tools to keep you focused and inspired? A
Reverse mortgages have helped millions of older homeowners enjoy retirement with more freedom, less stress, and greater financial control. And yet… there’s still a lot of confusion out there. Let’s clear the air. These are the most common myths we hear — and the facts that help set the record straight. Myth #1: The Bank
Let’s get this out of the way right now: You do NOT need 20% down to buy a home. You can put 20% down if it fits your goals… But you don’t have to. And for many people — especially first-time buyers — it might even slow you down unnecessarily. Let’s unpack what’s really going