News

Tips On Maintaining Your Credit Score

It can be one of the hardest subjects to talk about, and one that many Americans tend to avoid. However, knowing what your credit score is and how to maintain it is vital to becoming a homeowner. While Experian estimates 30% of Americans have poor or bad credit, plenty of people have no credit at…
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Avoiding IRS Audits (And Other Tips)

Today, the vast majority of Americans file their returns electronically. And, the IRS has significantly upgraded its technology, in an effort to quickly track down tax evasion and errors. I wanted to share some information about tax audits that I think are important to keep in mind. Remember these facts - better yet, print them…
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Tips On IRA Accounts

As a strong believer in the need to financially prepare for retirement, I wanted to take this opportunity to pass on some information on IRA accounts. According to a recent survey, only 18% of Americans are currently contributing to an IRA account – which is the same as contributing towards your future! There are two…
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So You’re Ready To Buy A Home… Now What?

Everyone knows that buying a home is a big deal – and a big chunk of change. However, some forget to think about the actual cost of owning a home. This is much different than the upfront costs of purchasing a home. So, how do you figure out what you can really afford? To be honest,…
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Have The Advantage During The Spring Selling Season

The spring selling season is up on us. Most real estate agents urge sellers to list their homes during the spring months for several reason, one being an influx in buyer demand. 2017 should be no different. In fact, many experts are saying that with the low inventory, buyer demand will be at an all-time…
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Tips On How To Avoid Internet Fraud

The more you use the Internet, the more you appreciate its convenience and access to services like banking and shopping. Unfortunately, the Internet is also a main hub for exploitation that can sometimes seem surprisingly genuine. Yes, I’m talking about internet fraud. How it works: The most common fraud arrives by email, claiming to be…
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When A Non-Conforming Loan Is the Best Choice

Home buying begins like any other purchase. Even before you start house hunting, you need to know how you’ll be paying, and how much you can afford. Enter the loan process, the process of getting pre-approved by a reputable mortgage banker. During this process, you’ll find out if you qualify for a loan, and how…
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If You’re Thinking About Upgrading…

No matter what generation you ask, owning a home is still a large part of the American dream. If you’re already a home owner, you’ve got a head start. Remember how great it felt, getting handed the keys to your very own front door? That first-time buyer elation can subside over the course a few…
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Introducing Your Virtual Mortgage Consultant

Real estate can be tricky. Whether you’re beginning your first home search, upgrading to a large place, or looking to refinance, we’re positive that you have questions. Probably several important questions, and you might not know where to begin looking to find the answers. Here at Blackstone, we aim to make the home buying, refinancing…
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Tips On Avoiding Identity Theft

In 2016, Javelin Strategy and Research found that $15 billion was stolen from 13.1 U.S. consumers in the year prior. $15 billion! Identity theft fraud has become a growing problem. From government documents, to credit cards and bank fraud, the types of theft are boundless and the consequences severe. It can take years upon years…
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What Equity And Refinance Mean For You

You may have seen those unclaimed money ads, the ones that point you to the state controller's website. You can search to see if there’s cash floating around, waiting for you to grab. If you’re one of the lucky ones who finds a few bucks, it feels like you’ve hit the jackpot even though it’s usually…
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Tips For Remodeling Your Kitchen

Of all the home updating that takes place each year, kitchen remodels continuously make the list. From freshening up the paint, installing new cabinets, and upgrading appliances, kitchens offer the perfect canvas for personalizing your home. When considering making a change, many homeowners keep in mind that they may someday market their home for sale.…
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5 Creative (And Easy) Ways To Save Up For A Down Payment

First-time home buyers commonly worry about the down payment that is required when financing a home. Down payments can range from 3% to 20% of a home loan depending on the buyer circumstances, loan package, price of the home, etc. For some, a down payment is no big deal. However, most first time home buyers will…
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Best Rate vs. Best Loan

Is the best loan for you always going to have the best interest rate? Perhaps...But, be sure to read the "fine print" associated with any loan, and make sure your lender is acting in your best interest! Here at Blackstone Financial, we offer the winning combination of great service and competitive rates. We focus on…
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House Hunting Tips and Tricks

Knowing how much house you can afford is just a starting point in your search for a new home. Getting pre-qualified is a great way to find out your maximum purchase price. The next step is equally important – finding that home that fits your needs while still being affordable and obtainable. By answering the…
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What If I Don’t Qualify For A Home Loan?

Becoming a home owner is more than a personal goal. According to 70% of millennials surveyed, home ownership is still a part of the American dream. It’s as important today as it was 50 years ago, and rightfully so. Owning a home is a huge investment into your future. But what if you don’t qualify…
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Things to Avoid Before Buying a Home

We’re often asked if there’s anything to avoid before buying a home. There are absolutely a few “rules of thumb” to put into practice when you begin thinking about purchasing a home. The escrow process requires a good amount of coordination and diligence. Your team (Mortgage Banker, REALTOR®, Title Officer) all work together to try and…
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Why Mortgage Pre-Qualification Is So Important

You’ve decided to begin your journey towards home ownership. Congratulations! Owning a home is potentially the most vital investment of your life. It paves the way towards financial security and freedom. Home ownership solidifies a significant part of your future. The process of purchasing your home starts with the initial step of getting pre-qualified. You may…
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Getting the Best Mortgage Deal

From Bankrate.com It's much tougher to get a home loan these days. Lenders now are required to perform more due diligence on mortgage borrowers than in the past. And thanks to the Great Recession, many mortgage shoppers may struggle to pass these stricter tests. But that doesn't mean you have to give up hope. Following…
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