The Porch

The Keys to Homeownership

Background with awesome gradient

Latest Articles

Mortgage 101

What Is a Closing Date in Real Estate? A Deep Dive for Homebuyers and Homeowners

If you’ve ever bought or refinanced a home, you’ve likely heard the term “closing date” tossed around a lot. And if you’re just starting...

Read more
Mortgage 101

What Is a Government-Backed Loan? A Deep Dive for Homebuyers

When you're exploring ways to buy a home, you'll likely come across the term government-backed loan. It sounds official—and it is—but more...

Read more
Mortgage 101

Understanding Property Tax: What Every Homebuyer Should Know

When you're buying a home, it’s easy to focus on the big-ticket numbers—purchase price, down payment, loan details. But there’s a quieter...

Read more
Mortgage 101

What Are Discount Points and How Do They Work?

When it comes to home financing, every percentage point on your mortgage rate can make a big difference over time. One strategy some buyers...

Read more
Mortgage 101

What First-Time Buyers Should Know About Homeowners Insurance

Buying your first home is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of new responsibilities. One of the most important – yet often overlooked...

Read more
Mortgage 101

What Is Title Insurance and Why It Matters for Your Home Purchase

When you’re knee-deep into the homebuying process – juggling inspections, appraisals, and paperwork – title insurance might feel like just...

Read more
Mortgage 101

Your Pre-Approval Checklist: What to Get in Order Before House Hunting This Fall

There’s something about fall that makes it a magical time to search for your dream home. The crisp air, colorful landscapes, and cozy vibes...

Read more
Mortgage 101

What Is Mortgage Principal—and Why It Matters More Than You Think

Buying a home is exciting—but let’s be real, it also comes with a learning curve. One of the most important concepts to understand early in...

Read more
Mortgage 101

I Need to Sell My Current House Before I Can Buy a New House – How Does That Work?

So, you’re ready to buy a new home – but there’s one catch: you need to sell your current house first. Whether you're relying on the equity...

Read more
Mortgage 101

How much could you save by making an extra mortgage payment every six months?

Do you have a summer job? Did you get a summer bonus? Decided not to go on vacation this summer? With any extra money you may have,...

Read more