The Effect of a Loan Modification on Your Credit
By Charlestien Harris This has been a very difficult year for many people when it comes to finances, especially for homeowners. Foreclosures and bankruptcies are two financial events that can have a really adverse effect on your credit. Trying to avoid both of those...
What Are My Next Steps After My Forbearance Period Ends?
By Charlestien Harris Many homeowners were able to take advantage of the forbearance option available through the CARES ACT provisions enacted by congress. Forbearance is a type of temporary mortgage relief that was very instrumental in helping borrowers keep...
Covid-19 Single Family Foreclosure and Eviction Moratorium Extended
By Charlestien Harris As a HUD certified housing counselor, I try to stay informed on current issues that could directly affect numerous consumers facing mounting debt and other issues related to housing and finances. Last month, the Federal Housing Finance...
10 Questions First-time Homebuyers Need to Ask Before Signing
By Charlestien Harris Right now the housing market is booming and a lot of people are shopping for a mortgage. Low interest rates and more options for refinancing are driving the market. This process can be stressful and time-consuming, especially if it’s...
Homebuyer Education During the Pandemic
Thanks to low mortgage interest rates, for some buyers this is the perfect time to think about purchasing a home. The best time to take a homebuyer education class is when you are starting to consider buying a home, not after you’ve already signed on the dotted line....
How to Handle an Overdue Mortgage
By Charlestien Harris The stress of not being able to make mortgage payments and other financial obligations because of the pandemic or any hardship can be overwhelming, but sometimes just knowing where to turn for help can give us a sense of relief. The CARES Act...
Homeownership: Knowing Your Numbers Can Make the Difference
I have been scanning the news lately and have read several articles about the housing market during this pandemic. To most analysts’ surprise, the housing market has been booming. According to the latest data the fixed interest rates for a 30-year mortgage is...
Credit Reports and Scores Explained in Simple Terms
By Charlestien Harris Having access to credit can make dreams come true. In today’s world, you can hardly conduct business without using credit, rather it be renting a vehicle or hotel room or making a large purchase. Most people don’t worry about...