Blog - Robby Oakes Mortgage

Buying Small, Living Large: 4 Big Pros to Buying a Smaller House or Condo

March 8, 2017 by Robby Oakes

Are you on the hunt for a more efficient living space? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or downsizing from a larger home, buying small can still mean living big. Let’s explore four positives to living in a smaller, more intimate house or condo.

Feeling ‘Priced Out’ of Your Local Market? Here’s How You Can Still Buy a Great New Home

March 7, 2017 by Robby Oakes

If you’re trying to buy a new home, few things are more frustrating than a hot real estate market. When home prices are climbing fast it can feel like you’ll never be able to save enough for your down payment. In today’s post we’ll share a few ways that you can get in – even if you’re feeling priced out.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 6, 2017

March 6, 2017 by Robby Oakes

Last week’s economic readings included reports on construction spending, Case-Shiller Home Price Indices and pending home sales. Fed Chair Janet Yellen said in a speech that federal interest rates would “likely” be raised. Weekly reports on new jobless claims and mortgage rates were also released.

Thinking About Refinancing Your Mortgage? 4 Ways to Ensure It’s Worth Your Time

March 3, 2017 by Robby Oakes

If you’re familiar with the real estate market, you’ve likely heard the term ‘refinancing’ and may be wondering what this can mean for your mortgage and your financial well-being. While refinancing can be a great benefit for those who are looking for a lower interest rate or a different mortgage type, here are the details on what it can offer and whether or not it will work for you.

Case-Shiller: December Home Prices Highest in More Than Two Years

March 2, 2017 by Robby Oakes

December home prices continued to rise per December readings for Case-Shiller’s National and 20-City Home Price Indices. On average, national home prices increased by 5,80 percent year-over-year and exceeded November’s year-over-year reading of 5.60 percent. The 20 City Index, which analysts follow more closely than the National Home Price Index, posted a year-over-year gain of 5.60 percent in December, which exceeded an expected reading of 5.40 percent and November’s year-over-year reading of 5.20 percent growth.

Selling Your Home? 3 Ways You Can Use Your Social Network to Speed up Your Sale

March 1, 2017 by Robby Oakes

There are many traditional ways to sell your home, from the MLS listings to a sign in the front yard. However, the ease of the Internet and the utility of social media can make it easier than ever to find the right buyer. If you’re getting prepared to put your home on the market and are trying to determine a strategy, here are some ways you can use social media to improve your selling odds.

3 Mortgage Scams to Be Aware of and How to Protect Yourself From Them

February 28, 2017 by Robby Oakes

It’s easy to be enthusiastic and excited about the prospect of home ownership, but it’s important to be aware that there are many ways potential buyers can be taken advantage of. If you’re on the market for a home and are trying to find the mortgage that will best benefit you, here are some of the tricks you may want to be wary of.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 27, 2017

February 27, 2017 by Robby Oakes

Last week’s readings on new and existing home sales provided further evidence of strengthening housing markets. Both categories of home sales exceeded December’s readings. Consumer sentiment was lower in February than for January and average rates were mixed with fixed rates higher and the rate for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages lower. Consumer sentiment lower in February.

If Your Home Is Destroyed in a Natural Disaster, What Happens to Your Mortgage?

February 24, 2017 by Robby Oakes

When you’ve been in your home for a while and have established a certain amount of equity, it can be a good feeling to know that you have an investment you can count on. However, with changing weather patterns you may be afraid of a natural disaster striking and what it could mean for your financial well-being.

5 Things Nobody Tells You About Selling Your First Home

February 23, 2017 by Robby Oakes

It’s often so exciting to think of buying a new home that homeowners forget about the sale, but there are a lot of details involved in putting a home on the market. Whether you’re just considering selling or are readying to put your home up, here are some things you might not know about the process.