Buy & Own a Home

Get Homegrown Wisdom Before Buying Your First Home

You know those moments—the ones when you realize that your parents were right? Make them work in your favor when you’re considering buying your first home.

Jul 21, 2016

Owning a Home Pays at Tax Time

When you buy a home, the mortgage interest you do pay is tax-deductible. So are your property taxes. Mortgage insurance can even be a tax deduction, if you qualify.

Jul 21, 2016

Stop Paying Rent. Start Paying Yourself.

In 2015, home values increased by an average of 10% in the Austin market—meaning homebuyers saw an average 10% return on their investment in only one year.

Mar 3, 2016

It’s a Great Year to Buy a House

You might be surprised at how affordable mortgage payments can be at current rates—they may even be comparable to the rent you’re paying now.

Jan 28, 2016

Buying vs. Renting

This video discusses several important factors to consider when choosing which option is right for you.

Aug 29, 2014

Buyer Beware

Purchasing can put you on the radar for unwanted solicitations. Learn about the most common solicitation types and what you should do about them.

May 27, 2014

Understanding Appraisals

Before investing in an appraisal, you'll want to use your option period to complete all property inspections to your satisfaction. Then, your real estate agent will give us the go-ahead to order an appraisal.

Dec 13, 2013

Home Equity Loan Basics

Determining whether it’s best to refinance or to obtain a home equity loan is very complicated and depends on many factors. Let us guide you through what to consider and why.

Dec 13, 2013

Refinancing Your Mortgage

Refinancing is paying off your existing mortgage with a brand new mortgage. Why and when should you refinance your home—or hold off until a better time? We’ll help you decide.

Dec 13, 2013

Handling ARM Rate Increases

If you, like many others, are struggling with monthly payments on an Adjustable Rate Mortgage that has re-set to a higher rate, there are options you can take to alleviate the pain.

Dec 13, 2013

Investing in Land

Whether a neighborhood lot, country acreage or lakeside tract for weekend getaways, investing in land can bring years of enjoyment and be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio.

Dec 13, 2013

What is Mortgage Insurance?

Many homebuyers confuse mortgage insurance and mortgage life insurance. Mortgage insurance protects the lender from the additional risk associated with low-down-payment loans.

Dec 13, 2013

What is Title Insurance?

If this is the first time you’ve bought a home, you may be wondering what title insurance is, and if you really need it. We’ll break it down so you can make an informed decision.

Dec 13, 2013

Getting a Mortgage Approval

Get some guidance on the mortgage application process, including the lowdown on what information you’ll need for the application and what conditions apply to certain requirements.

Dec 13, 2013

Understanding Mortgage Types

Today’s homebuyer has a virtual smorgasbord of financing options. Before committing to a mortgage, research what’s available to you and which loan type makes the most sense for your situation.

Dec 13, 2013