Seller Financing Versus Lender Mortgage: Which Is Better?
Question: We placed our home for sale and now an offer has come in: The buyer wants a seller-financed transaction, one where we would take back the mortgage.…
Contributor
Peter Miller
Peter G. Miller, author of The Common Sense Mortgage, is a real estate columnist syndicated in newspapers nationwide. Peter has been featured on Oprah, the Today Show, Money Magazine, CNN and more. Follow Peter on X.
Articles by Peter Miller
How Will Prepayments Save Me Mortgage Money?
Question: We have finally reached a point where we have a few extra dollars each month. Does it make sense to begin a program where we use the…
Fannie Mae High Loan-to-Value Refinance Option (HIRO) Guidelines for 2026
Editor’s Note: HIRO is temporarily paused due to volume. But you may be eligible to refinance with another program. Speak with a mortgage expert to understand your options.…
Can You Get A 40-year Mortgage?
Longer term financing is still available, despite falling out of favor after the housing crash 10 years ago. But, finding a lender that offers a 40-year mortgage lender…
What Do Lenders Count As Mortgage Income?
Question: What is mortgage income? I want to apply for a mortgage but worry that much of my income will not be counted. I receive child support plus much…
Mortgage Interest Rates Versus The Mysterious APR
Question: I want to get a mortgage. Interest rates I understand but what is an APR and why is it higher than the interest rate? Answer: When you…
Is Cash-out Refinancing A Good Idea With Higher Rates?
Question: We want cash-out refinancing. The value of our home has increased significantly in the past five years. We want to now get a cash-out refinance but worry that…
Why Has My Credit Score Gone Up?
Question: My credit score has gone up significantly during the past year even though my debts and monthly payments have largely stayed the same. Are the new numbers…
Are Real Estate Closing Delays Common?
Question: Are closing delays common? We’re selling our home. The good news is that we have a buyer. The problem is that closing will be delayed because of…
Should I Value My Home With Online Price Estimates?
Question: Homes in our area are quickly selling and we’re thinking of putting our place on the market. Does it make any sense to value our property on…