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

Things to Know Before Buying a Vacation Home
What exactly do you want or expect from a vacation home? Do you want a busy place that is bustling with people and tourists or peace and quiet where neighbors are few and your privacy is a top priority?

Easier Qualifying for Borrowers with Student Loan Debt
Fannie Mae recently announced a few new changes that may help as many as 44 million poetntial borrowers who are strapped with student loan debt qualify for mortgage financing.

Renting in Orange County is Now Even Less Affordable
Research shows that rents in Orange County average $1,827 per month in 2017. Single family home rents are naturally higher at $3,114. A big reason the market is so tight is due to more renters in the region and fewer homeowners.

How First-time Buyers Can Save Money After Closing
When you transition from a renter to a first time homebuyer, you are now responsible for repairs and maintenance for the home. With that in mind, here are six tips to save money after closing on your first home.

An Overview of the Powerful Benefits of a VA Home Loan
Here's a quick recap on 9 of the many benefits of a VA home loan for eligible borrowers seeking home financing. The facts are very convincing why this is one of the best loans to apply for if you are a veteran, spouse of a veteran or presently serving in the military.

How Much Home Can I Afford Using a VA Home Loan in California?
Among the many questions we get from active duty military service members and veterans is how much home can they afford when using their VA loan benefits.

9 Home Buyer Myths and Facts
For many potential homebuyers, some allow their decision to be changed by a myth. Fear of buying a home is understandable but you need to know the facts from the myths.

Down Payment Gift Rules for Borrowers
With strong housing demand and price appreciation in California, potential buyers sometimes need more down payment money to purchase the home they have been searching months for. A Gift can do just that for qualified borrowers.

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.
