Melissa's Blog Content

Whats Happening in the Housing Market Today?

With so much recent change in the housing market, you probably have questions about what it all means for your homebuying plans this spring. 

   What’s Going on with Mortgage Rates?

Last year, mortgage rates more than doubled within the calendar year. That’s never happened before, and the rapid rise caused many buyers to put their plans on hold. Today, rates are still quite volatile. With experts projecting rates will stabilize this year, that could...

Why you should have a living will and health directive        

A living will and health directive are important legal documents that allow you to make decisions "YOUR CHOICES" about your medical care and end-of-life treatment if you become unable to communicate or make decisions for yourself. Here are some reasons why you should have these documents in place:

To make sure your requests are carried out: You can designate what medical treatments you desire or don't want if you become in...

WHY Does Melissa Want Me To Have A TODD For My Real Esate Asset?   What is a TODD used for in real estate?      

To transfer ownership of real estate to a named beneficiary following the death of the property owner, a "TODD" (Transfer on Death Deed) is a legal instrument that is used in real estate.

A TODD allows the property owner to specify who will inherit their property after their death without the need for probate court proceedings. The beneficiary named in the TODD will automatic...

What Is The Differece Between A Living Trust VS a TODD?

     

Estate planning options like a living trust and a TODD (Transfer on Death Deed) can make it easier for your assets to be distributed when you pass away. However, they are different in how they operate.

A living trust is a legal document that allows you to transfer ownership of your assets to a trust while you are still alive. The trust then manages those assets for your benefit during your lifetime and allows for their efficien...

6 Different Ways You Can Stop PROBATE!   The legal procedure known as probate upholds a decedent's will and distributes their property in accordance with the terms of the will. There are a few actions you can take to avoid probate:   Create a living trust: Establishing a living trust is one approach to avoid probate. This entails giving the trust, which will be administered by a trustee you choose, ownership of your assets. The assets will be divided in accordance with the conditions of...

What are Some of the Costs That a Buyer Will Have When Purchasing a House

Getting a mortgage involves several costs, including:

Down payment: This is the sum of money you must put down as a down payment when buying a house. Depending on the type of mortgage and the regulations of your lender, the down payment amount varies. In general, your monthly mortgage payments will be lower the higher your down payment. Closing costs: Closing costs are the fees incurred when a mortgage is finalized and...

Here are the general steps to get a mortgage and the process to get a loan for a home:

Check your credit score: Before you start looking for a mortgage, check your credit score and report. A good credit score can help you get better loan terms and lower interest rates. Determine how much you can afford: How much you can afford to borrow for a home can be calculated using internet calculators or by consulting a financial expert. This will enable you to focus your property search. Be careful...