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To rent or to buy? Which is more affordable? There are many reasons to consider buying over renting in South Carolina, and if the new year has you thinking of making a change, you are not alone. However, you may wonder if the dollars and cents add up in your favor as home prices continue to rise. According to the …

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As home values and mortgage rates increase in the South Carolina Lowcountry, many homebuyers seek options to make homeownership more affordable. Some are looking at the 2-1 buydown loan program. A 2-1 buydown loan is a mortgage lending approach that provides for a lower mortgage payment during the first two years of …

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When it comes to the cost of purchasing a home in South Carolina, the top item on the list of expenses is the mortgage. It is highly encouraged to get pre-approved for a mortgage to know how much you can afford to pay for a property before going house hunting. But there are other expenses you need to know about to move …

Continue Reading about What you need to know about the upfront costs of buying a home

Jay Byars and Mortgage Equity Partners are proud to partner with the Friends of Dorchester County Parks (FDCP) to sponsor the Ashley River Adventure Race on March 20, 2022. This one-of-a-kind race will take place on the scenic Ashley River and its banks. The race features a 5K trail run at the Ashley River Park …

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What is an appraisal? This is a common question that many borrowers ask because an appraisal can make or break the deal for their potential home. Lenders will use an appraisal to help determine a home's actual value based on its condition, location, and any other features it may have. It also helps ensure that the …

Continue Reading about What is the difference between a VA appraisal and a conventional appraisal?

The Department of Veterans Affairs announced they would raise appraisal fees and lengthen the time they will allow for the appraisal reports to be submitted to lenders as of  December 1, 2021. This announcement came about as demand for VA appraisals has risen substantially. Will this deter borrowers from seeking VA …

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