One Thing to Know About the USDA Mortgage Loan: Take a Look at Your Income

Don't get us wrong, though: the USDA mortgage is quite the secret in the real estate market. Just check this article out for yourself. If there was a way for someone to get a home loan approval fast and easy, it would be the USDA. But there are certain guidelines to keep in mind.

Keep an Eye on Your Income and Your Debt

It's called the debt-to-income ratio. How much debt do you have? Is it ruining your credit? Do you need Lexington Law or Independent Credit Solutions to help you through those muddy waters? Good. Do it. But bear in mind that if the debt, plus the mortgage amount, just happens to be over 31% of your actual monthly income, the specific loan might be a no for you.

The VA program, another mortgage program out there, sticks to the similar rule: 41% is their measuring stick. Jumbo mortgage loans, the conventional ones, however, tend to stick to lower ratios overall given the assumption that when you take out a home loan, you're entrusted to pay it every month despite whatever debt you already have.

And That's What the Mortgage Guideline Is For:

It's to protect you from buying a home that might be too expensive. When debt continues to drown you out, foreclosure commences. That's something this real estate market won't want given the growth we're seeing in down payment averages and home prices.

So what should you do? Get on the right path, and without a doubt, the USDA mortgage loan might be your best bet, because it has plenty of benefits! Clean up your debt. Fix your credit. Sign up with the HOPE Program.

Divorced Couples Living Together: It Does Happen! (For Tax Reasons)

Think about the future here. Let go of the animosity (especially if you have kids!), because sometimes while the pain and tumult of divorce can be overwhelming, sometimes the money issues, especially with the house, can hurt even more! Something you honestly don't want....

You Might Be Divorcing Your Spouse, But Try Not to Divorce Your Entire Life

Might be asking much, but when it comes to your taxes, you have an option here (as crazy as it may be). You can live in the home together. Promote stability. Be civil. Care. This also keeps all tax obligations amicable and mutual, neither side benefiting or hurting more than it should.

And here's the bonus: you get more bonus tax advantages when you do eventually sell the home!

Also do keep in mind that just because you also own the home, doesn't mean you always have to technically live there either. However, your mail will continue to arrive at that house. So make sure the ex-spouse realizes that and doesn't shred the material every time he/she sees your name.

It's the Simplest Way to Get Taxes Figured Out About the House

But it's not for the faint of heart. Talk to a consultant with the Income Tax Planning Network about it some more and see if this may be an option for you. Check out this guide on taxes during a divorce as well for more possibilities. Because, remember: it's just a house.