Blog - Robby Oakes Mortgage

How Much Should You Budget for Closing Costs? Let’s Take a Look

October 14, 2015 by Robby Oakes

If you’re in the market for a new home, you’re probably trying to budget for all of the expenses that come with a home purchase. After all, the asking price isn’t necessarily the entire amount that you’ll pay – there are other expenses that will factor in to the final price. One such expense is your closing costs.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 13, 2015

October 13, 2015 by Robby Oakes

Last week’s economic reports included the Federal Open Market Committee Meeting Minutes and Weekly Jobless Claims. Also, the new mortgage TRID rules went into effect. Here are the details:

Looking for an Eco-friendly Upgrade? Try These Easy Ways to Save Water Around the Home

October 9, 2015 by Robby Oakes

While there are many simple tricks for saving water that will make you feel better about your environmental footprint, here are a few easy upgrades that will make that saving a little more automatic.

Real Estate Investing: Why Buying a Condo in a Ski Resort Area Can Be a Great Investment

October 8, 2015 by Robby Oakes

The decision to invest in real estate can be one rife with risk, but if you’re ready to take this type of step into the investment market, you might be wondering where to begin. While upcoming neighborhoods and university areas may always be a place where investment is a viable idea, here are some reasons it can be a boon to consider a resort condo.

The Pros and Cons of Paying Your Mortgage off Biweekly Versus Monthly

October 7, 2015 by Robby Oakes

If you have a mortgage, you’re probably looking for the best option to pay it off. So is a biweekly payment or monthly payment the better option for you? Which payment strategy best fits your individual circumstances? Here’s what you need to know.

Worried About Mortgage Rates Going Up? 3 Steps to Prepare Yourself Financially

October 6, 2015 by Robby Oakes

Mortgage rates have been at record lows for quite some time, making it easy for new homebuyers to finance their dream homes. But what comes down will eventually go back up, and with the world economy expected to rebound in 2016, we’re about to start seeing more expensive mortgages. So what can you do to prepare yourself before mortgage rates start to rise? Here are three strategies that will keep you ahead of the game.

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – October 05, 2015

October 5, 2015 by Robby Oakes

Last week’s economic reports included Pending Home Sales, Construction Spending and several reports on jobs and employment.

DIY Home Upgrades: 5 Reasons Why Hardwood Flooring Should Be on Your Renovation List

October 2, 2015 by Robby Oakes

Whether you’re planning on selling your home soon or you want to do a few minor renovations for your own enjoyment, an ailing hardwood floor may be on your list of things to tackle. Here are five reasons you may want to move it to the top of your renovation list.

Understanding the Jumbo Mortgage and Why Refinancing These Mortgages is Different

October 1, 2015 by Robby Oakes

So what exactly is a jumbo mortgage? How is it different from a standard mortgage, and what does that mean for your refinancing options? Hereâs what you need to know.

Case-Shiller Housing Market Index: Home Prices Rise in July

September 30, 2015 by Robby Oakes

U.S. home prices rose by 0.10 percent in July according to the S&P Case-Shiller Housing Market Index. San Francisco, California edged past Denver Colorado with a year-over-year price increase of 10.40 percent as compared to Denverâs reading of 10.30 percent. All year-over-readings for the 20-City Home Price Index posted gains, but Washington, D.C. showed the lowest year-over0-year growth rate at 1.70 percent. Chicago, Illinois and New York City followed closely with year-over-year readings of 1.80 percent and 1.90 percent respectively.