Entries by Courtney Coon

Hometown Highlights: The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an organization dedicated to doing the most good they can in the communities they serve. We had the pleasure of spending time with Grand Haven’s Major, Heather Holman, to learn more about the amazing things they do to provide assistance, support and hope to those in need of resources in our […]

Loan Programs Available for First-Time Buyers

Michigan Mortgage offers multiple loan options designed to help first-time home buyers achieve the American Dream. FHA Loans. These loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). This type of loan may be more attractive to someone who has less than perfect credit. They require a down payment of at least 3.5% of the […]

What are the benefits of homeownership?

Owning a home is a quintessential part of the American dream. Homes give families a sense of security and belonging. Homes are where holidays are celebrated and memories are made. Homeownership has a variety of practical benefits, too: Building equity: As you make mortgage payments, you build equity in your home, which is the difference between […]

Everything You Need to Know About Appraisals

Checks and balances – that’s what it’s all about. Lenders require appraisals to ensure their clients are not overpaying (or overborrowing) for a home. If you’re unfamiliar with the appraisal process, here’s what you need to know. Appraisers do not work for Loan Officers or Real Estate Agents. Appraisers are neutral parties and evaluate properties […]

Hometown Highlights: Tri Cities Kiwanis

#KidsNeedKiwanis Ever wonder what the Kiwanis Club does? Kiwanis is a global organization of service clubs dedicated to changing the world one child and community at a time. Along the way, their members share fun, fellowship, and a passion to serve their local communities. The Tri Cities Kiwanis is comprised of caring men and women […]

Tips to Maintain a Good Credit Score

If you’re in the market for a new home, your credit score will determine whether or not you’re eligible. Your score will determine the loan program you qualify for and your interest rate. Your credit score may be the single most important asset you have. You spend years building your score – here are a […]

What is a HELOC?

You could tap into your home equity with a cash-out refinance. But what if you already have a low rate on your mortgage? Consider getting a home equity line of credit (HELOC) instead. What is a HELOC? According to Investopedia, “A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is a set amount of available cash […]

How do interest rates impact your home buying power?

If you’re researching mortgages, you know that they come with interest rates. What exactly is a mortgage interest rate, and how much does it impact your buying power? What can you do to improve the interest rate you’re offered? We answer those questions in this article. Your mortgage interest rate has a direct impact on […]

Hometown Highlights: Tri-Cities Area Habitat for Humanity

The Tri-Cities Area Habitat for Humanity is so much more than building homes! Based in Grand Haven, they are also able to service the southern Muskegon areas of Norton Shores, Roosevelt Park, and Fruitport. With the support from donors and volunteers, they continue to help those with priority home repair needs and can provide families […]

10 Things to Do Before You Buy a House

Are you ready to start shopping for your first home? Before you begin, take a look at these 10 tips to make your home-buying journey successful! Few things are as exciting as making a real estate purchase – and few things cause more stress! To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of 10 tips […]