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Why insurance is so expensive now.

by I Am Benchmark

The insurance industry has experienced significant changes over recent years, with homeowner’s and auto insurance rates increasing rapidly. The reasons behind these trends are numerous, involving a combination of economic, environmental, and market-driven factors. Homeowner’s insurance on the rise Homeowner’s insurance rates have risen notably, driven by several unrelated critical factors: Accelerating auto insurance premiums …

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Benchmark Delivers A Christmas Homecoming Miracle

by Jason Haeger

Benchmark could just be another mortgage lender, but we’re not. Sure, every company has their ‘core values’, but there is something tangible and special about ours. Our core values didn’t exist until after they were identified in the soul of the company years after it was established. These values not only inform how we do …

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VA Loan: National Guard VA Loan qualifications 2022 update

by Austin Cox

Featured photo credit: https://www.nationalguard.com/careers/ground-forces The VA loan is one of the most powerful home buying tools available to those who qualify. A few benefits of the VA home loan are an option for ZERO down payment, no Private Mortgage Insurance, and lenient credit qualifications. There are specific criteria to qualify for the VA home loan, …

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Is waiting for lower interest rates a mistake?

by Jason Haeger

With mortgage interest rates at a level not seen for over a decade (see chart below), the question of whether to wait for interest rates to fall is creeping in. This is not unreasonable, however, it does beg the question. Are rates actually high? If you take a look at the chart below, you can …

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How To Make Your Interest Rate Hold For Longer

by Kynzy Lowe

Searching for a home? That’s great! It’s a good time to buy! We know that it can be stressful, as interest rates could go up during your search. What if it didn’t have to be that way? What if you could be certain that your interest rate wouldn’t change while you searched for your next …

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Your mortgage application was denied. Now what?

by Kynzy Lowe

If your mortgage application has been denied, you don’t have to give up on your home ownership dreams. There are steps you can take to improve your ability to get approved for a loan. First, it is crucial to get in contact with your lender. There are a multitude of reasons as to why an …

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Is it still a good time to buy?

by I Am Benchmark

Better late now than never later. It’s the question that’s buzzing around real estate offices, mortgage companies, backyard barbecues, water coolers and passing conversations with neighbors. The short answer is — we think so. Yes, it is still a good time to buy. The long answer is more complicated. Consider these four trends to help …

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15 Tips For An Easy Mortgage Process During The Holidays

by Holly Taylor

‘Twas a crisp, cold, clear night, when we hoped for a house. With my hot cocoa stirring, I looked at my spouse. We’d mapped out our assets and budget with care, In hopes that our offer would not catch a snare. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While dreams of new bedrooms …

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Can You Pay Off a 30-Year Mortgage Early?

by Holly Taylor

Whether you’re buying your first home or have owned several houses over the years, you’ve heard of the 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Many people choose the traditional, 30-year loan for the financial flexibility it provides.. Like most things in life, there are pros and cons. A Fixed Rate 30 Year Mortgage… ✓ Offers a lower …

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How to Get Ahead When You Can’t Get the House You Want

by Holly Taylor

It’s a seller’s market, and it’s not easy to make an offer within twenty-four hours to beat the crowd....If your search has faced competition, low inventory, or financial limitations, consider getting creative. These four unique housing options could help to cut costs so you can save faster for a possibly larger down payment.

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