Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes.

Escrow typically plays two roles during our home loan process. First, an escrow account is used during the closing process to facilitate the transfer of money from you to the seller. Thereafter, a different type of escrow account is used over the life of your loan to make it easier for you as a homeowner to pay large, periodic payments (for things like property taxes and homeowner’s insurance) as part of your regular monthly home loan payment. Your loan officer will be happy to answer any questions you might have about either of these escrow processes.

Yes. While in theory, all home inspectors should do high quality work, just like in any business, there are those that excel and those that fall short. Here are some tips to ensure you’re choosing a reliable home inspector:

• If you trust the opinion of your lender or real estate agent, they can often refer you to inspectors they’ve had good experiences with in the past.
• Read online reviews. Talk to prospective inspectors, and consider asking for references.
• Verify that you can accompany your inspector while they go through the home.
• Confirm that your inspector is bonded and insured.
• Verify their experience, especially if your home type is not common.
• Request a sample inspection report.
• To help avoid conflicts of interest, verify the company you choose only does inspections and not home renovations or repairs.

Yes – in fact, it’s encouraged! Your Home Loan Guide will review your payment options with you as part of the loan process, and automatic payments are a safe and convenient method to help ensure your home loan payments are on time every month.

Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you’re no longer able to purchase a home. In fact, purchasing a home as a retiree might be much easier than you think. There are multiple methods lenders can use to qualify a retiree for a home loan. Talk to a Home Loan Guide about your options for financing and what you’ll qualify for based on your assets and income.