Yeah, formal appraisals seem to be the default for most lenders I've dealt with too. I tried going the broker opinion route once, thinking it'd save m...

Totally relate to the late fee pain—been there, done that, got the angry letter from the county to prove it, haha. I personally still prefer handling ...

I see your point, but honestly, tapping equity isn’t always a pothole-filled shortcut. Did it myself once to cover some urgent home repairs—roof decid...

I bought my first place with an FHA loan a few years back, and honestly, the rules seem to shift every year or two. Just when you think you've got it ...