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How Seniors in Washington Can Buy a Home Without Monthly Mortgage Payments
Did you know that if you’re 62 or older in Washington State, you can purchase a new home using a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)—commonly known as a reverse mortgage? Many retirees feel stuck in homes that no longer fit their needs, whether it’s a two-story or three-story house that’s difficult to navigate or a property that’s simply too…
Read MoreThe Minimum Wage Housing Crisis: An Unseen Struggle
In today’s housing market, minimum-wage earners face an uphill battle in securing affordable rental housing. A recent report by Redfin highlights the stark reality: the average minimum-wage worker in the U.S. would need to work 106 hours per week to afford a median-priced apartment. This calculation is based on an effective national minimum wage of…
Read MoreThree Smart Mortgage Moves You Should Know About
Hey everyone, Larry Burgher here with Empire Home Loans! Today, I want to highlight three key mortgage opportunities that could help homeowners, investors, and buyers make smarter financial moves. 1. Home Equity: Put Your Investment to Work Did you know that homeowners in the U.S. hold a combined $17.2 trillion in home equity? If you…
Read MoreBuy Before You Sell: The Bridge Loan Advantage for Homeowners and Realtors
One of the biggest challenges homeowners face when moving is the timing—selling their current home while securing their next one. The fear of being stuck with two mortgages or scrambling to find a new place after selling can create a stressful, uncertain situation. That’s where Buy Before You Sell bridge loans come in. This financial tool allows homeowners…
Read MoreReverse Mortgages: A Smart Retirement Strategy You May Not Know About
For many retirees, their most valuable asset isn’t stocks or savings, it’s the equity in their home. However, when planning for retirement, many people miss this key resource. A reverse mortgage, also known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), can be a powerful tool to boost your retirement income, protect your investments, and ensure…
Read MoreWhy Everyone Needs a Power of Attorney – No Matter Their Age
The other day, I was having a conversation with a certified financial planner I know, and we got onto the topic of Power of Attorney (POA). It’s one of those things most people don’t think about until it’s too late, and the statistics on how many people don’t have one in place are pretty shocking.…
Read MoreUnlocking Financial Freedom: Exploring the Benefits of Reverse Mortgages
Greetings, In the realm of financial planning, exploring innovative ways to leverage assets and secure a comfortable retirement is paramount. One such avenue that’s gaining attention for its unique benefits is the reverse mortgage (AKA: Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM). Contrary to traditional mortgages, where homeowners make monthly payments to a lender, reverse mortgages…
Read MoreHere are 9 questions to ask when exploring whether a reverse mortgage is the right choice for you:
What are your financial goals? Are you looking to supplement retirement income, pay off an existing mortgage, cover medical expenses, or fund other needs? How long do you plan to stay in your home? A reverse mortgage is most beneficial for those intending to remain in their home long-term. What is your current and expected…
Read MoreThe Benefits of Mortgage Refinance: Your Key to Financial Freedom
Greetings! In the world of personal finance, making savvy decisions can often be the difference between financial strain and freedom. One such decision that homeowners frequently contemplate is mortgage refinancing. With interest rates fluctuating and financial circumstances evolving, the concept of refinancing your mortgage can become a powerful tool in your financial arsenal. Today, we…
Read MoreBuying Vs. Renting
Buying vs Renting: When considering the advantages of buying a home versus renting, there are several factors to take into account. Here are some key points that first-time homebuyers often consider: Equity Building: Buying: When you purchase a home, you are building equity over time. As you make mortgage payments, you’re increasing your ownership stake in…
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