16 Sep 2026
By Mark Feder

What Happens to Your Mortgage Options When a Home Does Not Appraise as Expected?

Mortgage Tips
You have negotiated a purchase price, your offer has been accepted, and the mortgage process is moving forward. Then the appraisal comes back lower than expected. For buyers, that can be unsettling, but a low appraisal does not automatically mean the purchase is over. What happens next depends on the contract, available funds, financing, and what the buyer and seller are willing to do. Why the Appraised Value Matters to Your MortgageMortgage financing is generally based in part on the property's appraised value. If a buyer agrees to pay $425,000 but the home appraises for $400,000, the lender does not…
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15 Sep 2026
By Mark Feder

Why the Type of Property You Buy Can Affect Your Mortgage Options

Mortgage Tips
When buyers start thinking about mortgage options, they often focus on their own finances: income, credit, debts, savings, and down payment. But there is another part of the equation that can be easy to overlook. The property itself matters. A traditional single-family home, condominium, manufactured home, multi-unit property, or unusual property may not be treated exactly the same when it comes to financing. A Mortgage Is Secured by the PropertyA lender is not only evaluating whether a borrower can repay the loan. The property securing that mortgage must also meet the requirements of the particular loan program being used. For…
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21 Nov 2025
By Mark Feder

Understanding the Conversation Around Longer Mortgage Terms

Mortgage Tips
The idea of extending mortgage terms well beyond the traditional thirty years is gaining new attention. With rising home prices and tightened affordability, many buyers are wondering whether a much longer loan could help lower the monthly payment enough to make homeownership more achievable. Before deciding if this type of option makes sense, it is important to look at why the concept is being discussed and what it could mean for buyers in the real world. Why Longer Mortgage Terms Are Being DiscussedThe primary reason is affordability. Home prices have increased across many markets, and even with modest rate improvements,…
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12 Nov 2025
By Mark Feder

Mortgage Options for Retirees Who Still Want to Buy

Mortgage
Many retirees still dream of owning a new home, whether to downsize, move closer to family, or enjoy a change of scenery. While retirement often means leaving behind a steady paycheck, it does not have to mean leaving behind the dream of homeownership. Lenders understand that retirees have unique financial situations, and there are several mortgage options available to help make that next move possible. Traditional Mortgages for RetireesRetirees can still qualify for a traditional mortgage, even without employment income. Lenders consider various sources of income, such as Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment withdrawals. The key is showing consistent,…
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