05 Nov 2026
By Mark Feder

Why a Home With a Private Septic System May Need Extra Mortgage Review

Home Buyer Tips
A house with a private septic system may offer the space and privacy many buyers want, especially outside areas served by public sewer lines. Yet septic systems are an important part of a property's infrastructure, and their condition can affect both the purchase decision and the mortgage process. Buyers who understand the basics before making an offer are better prepared for inspections, documentation requests, and possible repairs. The System Is Part of the Property A septic system typically collects wastewater from the home, treats it in a tank, and disperses it through a drain field or another approved treatment arrangement.…
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23 Oct 2026
By Mark Feder

How Leased Solar Panels Can Affect Your Mortgage Approval

Mortgage Tips
Solar panels can make a home attractive to buyers who want to manage electricity costs. But the panels on a roof are not always owned by the seller. When a solar system is leased or covered by another third-party agreement, buyers may need to review additional paperwork before their mortgage can be finalized. Owned and Leased Systems Are Different With an owned solar system, the homeowner generally owns the equipment, although there may still be a loan secured by the system or property. With a lease, a separate company typically owns the panels while the homeowner pays to use them.…
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13 Oct 2026
By Mark Feder

Why a Home With a Shared Septic System Can Complicate Mortgage Financing

Mortgage Tips
A home can look perfect during a showing, but certain features of the property may create questions when it comes time to secure a mortgage. One situation buyers may not anticipate is purchasing a home that shares a septic system with another property.While shared systems can function effectively, they may require additional documentation and review before financing can move forward. Understanding How a Shared Septic System WorksMost buyers are familiar with homes that connect to a public sewer system or have their own private septic tank. However, some properties share a wastewater treatment system with one or more neighboring homes.…
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09 Oct 2026
By Mark Feder

Why Buying a Home From a Family Member Can Make the Mortgage More Complicated

Mortgage Tips
Buying a home from a parent, grandparent, sibling, or another relative may seem easier than purchasing from a stranger. You already know the seller, may know the property's history, and might even agree on a price without extensive negotiations. But the family relationship can introduce mortgage considerations that are different from those in a typical purchase between unrelated parties. The Relationship MattersA transaction between people with an existing relationship may be considered differently from a traditional arm's-length sale. That does not mean family transactions are prohibited. It means the lender may need to understand the relationship between the buyer and…
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