Holly Hooper

Recent Articles

White stuco minimalist style home in Marfa Texas.

5-minute read

What you need to know about home equity loans and cash-out refinances in Texas

If you’re looking to do a home equity loan or otherwise do a cash-out refinance in Texas, you should know there are some special rules to follow.

Couple smiling at one another while looking at documents on open laptop.

6-minute read

How long does it take to close on a house?

Closing on a house typically takes 30 – 60 days, but delays can lengthen the timeline. Get the statistics and learn how you can speed up your closing.

A small greenhouse or conservatory, showcasing a structure designed for gardening, relaxation, or cultivating plants within a home setting.

10-minute read

Contingent: What it means in real estate

In real estate, “contingent” refers to conditions that must be met for a sale to proceed as planned. Learn how contingencies protect potential ho...

Young man sitting at a desk with a laptop well using a calculator.

7-minute read

Why waiting on the Fed for a better mortgage rate may not make sense

You may hear about the Federal Reserve lowering interest rates and try to wait to get a better deal on your mortgage. Here’s why that doesn’t always...

Young man at kitchen table working through his finances on laptop.

6-minute read

The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) interest rate decision

Wondering how the latest federal interest rate decision will affect your ability to buy or sell a home? Read on to make informed real estate decisions.

An image showing a couple discussing finances, possibly related to financial planning or discussions.

4-minute read

A guide to broker price opinion (BPO)

A broker price opinion (BPO) estimates a property's value based on comparable sales. Learn when a BPO is often used and how it differs from an appraisal.

A professional appraiser meticulously inspects a property, examining its features and documenting findings.

7-minute read

Home equity loan appraisal: What you need to know

Will your home equity loan require an appraisal? Most likely, so explore our guide to learn more about home equity loan appraisals and how you can prepare.

A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

6-minute read

What is Fannie Mae's Community Seconds Program?

Need a little extra help covering your down payment or closing costs? A program like Fannie Mae's Community Seconds might be able to help.

A pregnant Asian woman browsing or working on a computer, possibly researching or organizing information online.

5-minute read

Applying for a home loan while on maternity leave: A guide

Wondering if maternity leave affects your ability to get a mortgage? Learn what to expect when applying for a home loan while on maternity or parental leave.