I'm married and a mom of 4 beautiful girls.

Ithaca is an Outlayer statistically, there are many factors that influence this.

I wouldn't worry too much about not having assets when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage, that's doesn't factor into the equation, with some readily available conventional loans.  

I think if you do the math and factor the costs of refinancing to save $80 a month, you will see that you are going to spend more in fees per year for the costs to refinance than you are going to save by not having the PMI.  

This wouldn't be a mortgage.The bank will tie up your funds and should offer a competitive rate, this is a low risk deal for them and I don't suspect your credit will be much of a factor. 

@Stephen Moskowitz I meant that the cost of renovating becomes higher if you have to factor in the cost to raise the home on top of all of the other renovations.

He put up beautiful molding in our house.Action roofing is also good.If you talk to them please let them know I referred you.Good luck!

Long story short: The project was completed beautifully with the new contractor.

I believe there are a few different schools of thought on this.Personally, I think it's wise to at least take a look at how the numbers crunch with management being factored in.

Real estate here is hot due to many factors and I am interested  in the opportunity which exists.