What is MCC The Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) is one of the most underutilized programs. This program is available to homebuyers in Hawaii, providing a unique opportunity to save money on their federal income taxes. The program is administered by the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HHFDC) and is designed to help low-to-moderate-income homebuyers afford their mortgage payments. Under…
Are you confused by the distinction between APR and interest rates? Don’t feel bad! You’re not alone! People have been puzzled over this concept for years as credit cards and mortgages became commonplace in our society. So let’s tackle this age-old question: What is the difference between an APR and an interest rate? Understanding APR An annual percentage rate (APR)…
Buying a house is an achievement that almost everyone looks forward to. The process is a lot easier with many different types of loans to choose from. An FHA loan is one of the most common types to choose from, and it is backed by the Federal Housing Administration. It is basically designed to help individuals who are first-time home…
Buying a home in Hawaii is exciting, but the loan side can feel like a lot of paperwork and waiting. It becomes easier once you know what to expect next. At Smart Money, we have helped families across Hawaii finance their homes since 2007, and this guide walks you through each step of the mortgage process, from setting a budget…
Loans are necessary assets that can be extremely valuable at specific life events. People usually don’t enjoy taking out loans, but when critical needs arise, a loan is the best option to meet those needs. On the other hand, taking out a loan always entails meeting specific requirements, which vary from lender to lender. Some lenders impose obnoxious, terrifying, unfriendly,…
As a homeowner, there are always decisions and information to consider when making home loan decisions. While you likely already understand some basics about adjustable rate mortgages (ARM), let’s dig deeper to see why they should be considered as a home loan option. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) can be an attractive choice for financially astute homeowners who value flexibility with…

