Local Experts in Maryland

Can You Use Land You Already Own as Equity to Build a Home?

Owning land may provide a financial advantage when you're ready to build a home. Stuart Kiehne explains how land equity can factor into construction financing, what happens when land has an existing loan, and why appraisals, construction budgets and builder requirements matter when planning a custom

Morning Mortgage Update: Rates Climb Toward 7.6%

Mortgage rates are climbing toward 7.6% this October, with buyer pullback spreading.

How Much Cash Do You Really Need to Buy Your First Home?

Self-Employed and Buying a Home? How Mortgage Lenders Look at Your Income

Being self-employed doesn't mean you can't qualify for a mortgage, but documenting income can be different from the process for a salaried employee. Stuart Kiehne explains how lenders evaluate self-employed income, why tax returns and business deductions matter, and what borrowers can do before appl

Buying a Higher-Priced Home? What Homebuyers Should Know About Jumbo Financing

Buying a higher-priced home can require a different approach to mortgage financing. Stuart Kiehne explains what homebuyers should know about jumbo loans, including loan limits, down payments, cash reserves, credit, documentation, appraisals and why planning early can make the financing process easie

What I Wish More Homebuyers Knew Before Financing a New Construction Home

Financing a new construction home is different from getting a mortgage on an existing property. Stuart Kiehne shares key things homebuyers should understand about construction financing, including budgeting, appraisals, builder requirements, construction draws, land equity and construction-to-perman

Can I Use a VA Loan to Buy a Home in Annapolis, Maryland?

Eligible veterans, active-duty service members and qualifying surviving spouses may be able to use a VA loan to buy a home in Annapolis, Maryland. Learn how VA eligibility, $0 down payment options, occupancy requirements, entitlement and the VA appraisal process can affect your home purchase.

Waterfront Living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland: Pros, Cons, and Realities

Is the Eastern Shore of MD calling? Discover the unique rewards, maintenance costs, and critical regulations of waterfront living on the Eastern Shore, including Cecil County, Kent County, MD and Harford County.

Annapolis Home Appreciation: A 5-Year Market Deep Dive

Annapolis home values have climbed steadily for five years, powered by scarce waterfront inventory and Naval Academy demand.