First Ohio Blog

First Ohio Blog2023-02-21T18:49:22-04:00

Buying a Home with a Non-Traditional Employment History: What Borrowers Need to Know

The traditional mortgage borrower—someone with a single employer, a predictable salary, and a W-2—is no longer the norm. Freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers, consultants, and hybrid employees now make up a significant portion of the workforce. While homeownership is absolutely achievable for these borrowers, qualifying for a mortgage often requires a different approach than what most online guides describe. If [...]

3 Consejos para Jóvenes Compradores de Vivienda por Primera Vez

Comprar tu primera casa es un hito emocionante a cualquier edad. Es un gran paso hacia la independencia financiera que te permite generar patrimonio, crear estabilidad e invertir en tu futuro. Pero aunque la experiencia es emocionante, también puede sentirse abrumadora sin la preparación adecuada. Un plan bien pensado, expectativas realistas y la orientación correcta pueden hacer que todo el [...]

3 Tips for Young First-Time Homebuyers

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone at any age. It’s a major step toward financial independence that gives you the opportunity to build equity, create stability, and invest in your future. But while the experience is exciting, it can also feel overwhelming without the right preparation. A thoughtful plan, realistic expectations, and reliable guidance can make the entire [...]

Preparing Your Home (and Finances) for Winter: A Fall Homeowner’s Checklist

As temperatures start to drop, fall is the perfect time to get your home and your finances ready for the winter months ahead. Taking a few proactive steps now can save you money, prevent costly repairs, and make your home more comfortable when the cold sets in. Here’s a practical checklist to help homeowners prepare inside and out. Home Maintenance [...]

5 Common Refinance Mistakes to Avoid

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move, whether you’re aiming to lower your interest rate, reduce your monthly payments, or tap into your home’s equity for a major goal. However, refinancing is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and without a thoughtful approach, it can end up costing you more than it saves. From loan terms to credit considerations, [...]

Which Renovations Add the Most Value to Your Home?

Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want to improve your living space, choosing the right renovations can make all the difference. Some upgrades not only enhance comfort and style but also offer a strong return on investment, boosting your home's resale value. Here are tips for renovation projects that consistently add value to your home according to [...]