Home Buying

Home title document with signature lines, a pen, and house keys resting on the paperwork, symbolizing property ownership and real estate title transfer.
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics

What Is a Home Title? Complete Guide for Homebuyers

Learn what a home title is, how it differs from a deed, who holds title with a mortgage, and how title insurance protects homebuyers.

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Happy couple high-fiving in their living room, representing the excitement of being cleared to close on a new home.
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics

Clear to Close (CTC): What it Means and Next Steps

Clear to Close means your mortgage is fully approved and you’re ready for closing. Learn what CTC means, how long it takes, and what happens before closing day

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Downpayment in Massachusetts
Home Buying
Loan Types
Mortgage Basics

How much do first-time home buyers have to put down in Massachusetts? (MassHousing)

How much do first-time home buyers need to put down in Massachusetts? Here are MassHousing programs, DP assistance options, and low-down-payment mortgage needs.

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mortgage preapproval process
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics

How Long Does a Mortgage Preapproval Last?

Getting a preapproval on a mortgage is important when you're buying a home. This post is all about how long is a preapproval valid, and when does it expire?

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savings for a home
Home Buying

How Much To Save For A House?

Find out how much you really need to save for a house — from down payments to hidden costs — and get tips to reach your homeownership goal faster.

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20% down to buy a house
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics

Do You Need to Put 20% Down to Buy a House?

Do you need 20% down to buy a house? Learn the truth about down payments, low-down-payment loan options, and how to buy with less.

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Couple packing cardboard boxes and sealing them with tape while preparing to move into a new home after closing.
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics

How Soon After Closing Can You Move In?

Find out how soon you can move in after closing. Learn about occupancy dates, seller agreements, and what to expect with new or pre-owned homes.

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Buy A House Out of State
Home Buying

How To Buy A House Out of State?

If you’re planning to move out of state, be prepared for certain challenges. Here are some essential steps to help you make the right choices out of state.

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man and woman buying their first home
Home Buying
Loan Types

First-Time Home Buyer Qualifications

Discover the key qualifications for first-time home buyers, including credit score, income, and down payment requirements to help you secure your first home.

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home loan prequalification
Home Buying
Loan Types
Mortgage Basics

How Do I Get Prequalified for a Home Loan?

Are you dreaming of buying a home but not sure where to start? A great first step is getting prequalified for a home loan. Here is how to get prequalified.

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How Down Payment Assistance Makes Homeownership Attainable
Home Buying
Servicing

Bridging The Gap: How Can Down Payment Assistance Make Your Home Dreams A Reality?

Learn how down payment assistance programs can help make your home dreams a reality. Explore grants, forgivable loans, and low-interest options to buy a home.

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A smiling couple meets with a mortgage advisor, reviewing loan documents together in a bright, modern office setting.
Home Buying
Loan Types
Mortgage Basics

How to Choose a Mortgage That Actually Works for You?

Find the right mortgage for your budget and goals. Learn about loan types, rates, and tips from Total Mortgage to choose a plan that truly works for you.

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A lender stamps an employment verification letter for mortgage approval beside house models, keys, and a pen.
Home Buying
Mortgage Basics
Servicing

Employment Letter for Mortgage Approval

Learn what an employment letter for mortgage approval is, why lenders need it, and how to get one—expert guidance from Total Mortgage.

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Happy family moving into a new home, with kids playing among moving boxes.
Home Buying

How To Buy A Home With Kids In Mind?

Find the perfect kid-friendly home with tips on safety, schools, space, and budgeting. Learn how Total Mortgage can help make your family’s dream home a reality

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U.S. Capitol building during the 2025 government shutdown, highlighting effects on mortgages, loan approvals, and housing market
Home Buying
Loan Types
Refinancing

What Happens to Your Mortgage in a Government Shutdown?

See how the 2025 government shutdown affects mortgages, loan approvals, closings, and rates—what buyers and homeowners need to know now.

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Home Buying
Loan Types

Total Mortgage's Denise Peach Named #1 Top MassHousing Loan Originator

Total Mortgage's Denise Peach Named #1 Top MassHousing Loan Originator

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Real estate contingency
Home Buying
Refinancing

Common Real Estate Contingencies And Their Meaning

Learn about common real estate contingencies, what they mean, and how they impact your home buying or selling process. Stay informed before you sign.

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house hunting
Home Buying

3 Crucial Steps Before You Start House Hunting

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and it deserves wise decision-making. Here are 3 things you must do before house hunting.

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