Blog
Home loan tips, mortgage advice, and real estate insights from 1st Nationwide Mortgage.

If I Choose a Realtor, Do I Need to Use Their Lender?
Am I required to use the lender of the realtor who is representing me? This is a common question. See our answers for and against this dilemma.

Cash-Out Refinance for Buyers with No Waiting Period
If you are looking to refinance a home you just bought. there is a loan program available called delayed financing. This is one of the best methods for a cash back refinance.

How to Save on Your Mortgage by Managing Your Credit
The credit score of the borrower has a big impact on the interest rate and how much you are able to borrow. Scores below 680 may find challenges while somebody with a 720 or higher credit score will receive close to or the best rates and pricing.

5 Reasons to Make a 20-percent Down Payment
Review our list of reasons why a borrower should make a down payment of 20-percent and above when buying a home.

Do New Conventional Loans Compete Against Government Loans?
Are today's conforming loans a better deal than a VA or FHA loan? Let's look at some of the difference and make a sound conclusion from there.

Low Dow Payment Mortgage Considerations
Buying a home in Southern California means you'll more than likely need a down payment unless it's a VA loan. Additional options exist for home buyers with as little as 3- and 5-percent down programs.

Best Low Down Payment Programs for Home Buyers
Before starting to shop for homes in California, you will want to be sure you are applying for the best loan program which includes a low down payments and attractive interest rates.

Still Don't Have Your Pre-Approval Letter?
When you're looking to buy a home in a competitive housing market and you're going to finance the home, a pre-approval letter is extremely important to obtain.

Methods to Homeownership for Military Families
Becoming a homeowner could be a little complicated when you are in the military and have a family. Here's an overview of the advantages of using a VA loan.

4 Questions You Need to Know Before Buying a Home
Don't forget about these important factors before making a commitment to buy a home. These can play a large role in your personal finances in the future.

Qualify for a Mortgage With a Non-Occupying Co-Borrower
Mortgage qualifying is challenging sometimes for one borrower to qualify based on their income ad debts. When qualifying is a problem, consider a co-borrower to help you qualify.

Q & A on Orange County FHA Loans
An overview of the advantages & disadvantages, down payment, and current loan limits of FHA loans in Orange County, California.
