Marissa Crum

Recent Articles

Father at kitchen table with young son on his lap reviewing paperwork and information on laptop..

5-minute read

How to get a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Securing a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the first step to getting a VA home loan. Learn why you need a VA COE and how to get one.

A young couple looking for a house, symbolizing the process of home search or property hunting.

5-minute read

Nonconforming loans: What are they and how do they work?

Wondering what a nonconforming loan is and how one works? Learn about your mortgage options and see whether a nonconforming loan is the best option for you.

A younger Asian woman moving with a senior father, depicting a family or intergenerational relocation scene.

5-minute read

FHA nonoccupant co-borrowers: Guidelines and how they can help

Nonoccupant co-borrowers can make a big difference in the qualifying process for an FHA loan. Learn the requirements for using this process effectively.

An older couple on a couch with a book, depicting relaxation or leisure time at home.

5-minute read

FHA minimum property standards checklist: What to know

Planning on purchasing a home with an FHA loan? Make sure it can be FHA-approved with our useful FHA minimum property standards checklist.

Man in blue shirt hunching over table, holding paperwork and looking at a computer.

8-minute read

Can I refinance a home equity loan?

Wondering how to refinance your home equity loan? Discover how to secure better conditions for your loan as well as maximize your home equity loan benefits.<...

Young boy looking outside a window with a Dachsund.

6-minute read

How to buy a house in Minnesota

Considering moving to the Gopher State? Here’s what buyers should know about the market and how to prepare to buy a house in Minnesota.

A couple looking at a laptop together, possibly discussing or working on something collaboratively.

6-minute read

What does it mean when a house is ‘active under contract’?

If a house is actively under contract, the seller has accepted an offer, but the sale hasn’t been completed. Here’s how it works and why it works...

Image displaying a row of townhouses on a sunny day in North Carolina, showcasing real estate or property.

8-minute read

Duplex vs. townhouse: What’s the difference?

A duplex shares one wall, while a townhome usually shares two. Find all the differences between duplexes and townhouses and see which style seems best for you.

An image of a traditional neighborhood setting, depicting houses in a residential area.

6-minute read

What is a CMA in real estate? A complete guide

Learn what a comparative market analysis (CMA) is, what it does, and how it can help you determine a property’s value by comparing similar homes in you...