Norman Calvo, Mortgage Loan Office, NMLS # 10339

11/21/2023

Wondering how much your home value has changed over the last few years? Here are some little-known facts that go into determining property value.

There are many intricate details that buyers and sellers might not realize that influence property value. Here's what you need to know.

11/16/2023

Some DIY projects look easy on TV—but in reality, they could be dangerous or complicated for amateurs (and possibly cost you more in the long run). Here are some projects where it's best to hire a pro.

Some DIY projects look easy on TV—but in reality, they could be dangerous or complicated for amateurs. Here are some projects where it's best to hire a pro.

11/09/2023

From built-in nooks for napping to wall-spanning walkways for cat adventures, some homeowners spend big bucks crafting custom amenities for their pets. Check out these creative ideas!

Our dogs and cats are like members of the family and, lately, it seems as if we'll spend anything to make them happy at home. Take a look!

11/06/2023

Understanding and managing your credit score is important, especially when you're planning to buy a home. Here are some mistakes to avoid and ways to repair your credit.

Credit scores are a major factor in getting a mortgage. But, credit mistakes happen. Here's how to avoid some of the biggest ones.

11/02/2023

Nationwide, 30.6% of U.S. single-family homes for sale in the third quarter were new construction—the highest share of any third quarter on record. That’s up from 28.9% one year earlier and 25% two years earlier.

New builds are taking up a growing share of the pie as builders attract buyers with concessions and high mortgage rates prevent homeowners from selling.

10/26/2023

Just as you size up whether a home fits your needs, burglars could size it up to see if it fits theirs. Before you make an offer on a home, you may want to consider a full security inspection. Much like a home inspection can uncover flaws in the roof, structure, or plumbing, an inspection by a home security expert can help identify the home’s vulnerable spots.

Just as you size up whether a home fits your needs, burglars may see if it fits theirs. Consider these potential security issues before you make an offer.

10/19/2023

So proud of Citizens for being named a for by the DisabilityIN and AAPD for the third consecutive year! As a , it’s such an honor to be recognized for our commitment to inclusion and accessibility for all.

Learn more about our recent awards and recognition at spr.ly/61108Pzvh6.

10/12/2023

When you’re buying or selling, the home inspection process can cause stress and anxiety. Here are some tips to make the process easier and more collaborative.

A home inspector can make or break a sale for both sellers and buyers. It's why the home inspection process can be somewhat terrifying!

10/05/2023

Moving is never easy, but with some careful preparation, you can get your household from point A to point B with as little disruption as possible. Here are some great tips for preparing for a long-distance move.

Follow these 11 tips for getting your family and home ready to relocate to a new city or state.

10/02/2023

A mortgage discount point is a fee you pay at closing to lower the interest rate on your home loan. This practice is also called a “rate buydown” or “buying down the rate.”

One discount point typically costs 1% of your total loan amount. For each discount point you buy, your interest rate will be reduced by a set percentage point. You are essentially prepaying interest so that you have less interest to pay over the term of your loan (or a specific amount of time), resulting in smaller monthly mortgage payments. Certain loan programs are not eligible for mortgage discount points and there is a cap on the number of points you can buy.

Contact me to discuss your home financing needs and to see if a rate buydown may be an option for you.

09/28/2023

What can you do when the home appraisal comes in significantly lower than the contract price? It’s a common problem in a hot market when appraisals can’t keep up with how quickly homes are selling.

Here's how to deal with a low appraisal: Do not panic, and then consider these four options.