Posts Tagged ‘first time homebuyer’
What Is Mortgage Insurance and How Is It Different From Homeowners Insurance?
If you’re buying a home, you’ll probably hear the word “insurance” often and two of the most common types people mix up are mortgage insurance and homeowners insurance. They sound similar, but they serve very different purposes. Both are crucial in the world of homeownership, and in this post, I’ll break it down clearly, so…
Read More2026 Mortgage Predictions & Trends: What Homebuyers & Refinancers Need to Know
As we head into 2026, the mortgage landscape continues to evolve, shaped by economic shifts, policy decisions, and changing buyer preferences. Whether you’re planning to buy a home, refinance, or simply investing in your financial future, understanding the trends ahead can help you make smarter decisions. Here’s a clear look at the top mortgage predictions…
Read MoreWhat Credit Score Do You Need to Buy a Home?
One of the most common questions I hear from homebuyers is: “What credit score do I need to buy a house?” The short answer is – it depends. There’s no single magic number, there are many different mortgage products with different qualifying credit scores, and you may be closer to homeownership than you think. Let’s…
Read MoreHow Much Home Can You Really Afford? (The Answer Most Lenders Won’t Tell You Upfront)
As a mortgage loan officer who has closed hundreds and hundreds of loans in my career, I can tell you the buying a home is emotional. You fall in love with the kitchen, the master bathroom, the backyard, or the school district, etc. But before you fall in love with a listing, it’s crucial to…
Read MoreHow to Qualify for a VA Loan (and Why It’s a Great Option)
For eligible service members, veterans, and their families, VA loans are one of the most powerful tools available for achieving homeownership. Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, this program offers benefits that make buying a home more accessible and affordable than many other loan types. If you’re a veteran, active military member, or…
Read MoreUnderstanding Jumbo Mortgage Loans: What You Need to Know
As a mortgage loan officer with years of experience helping clients navigate the home financing landscape, I’ve seen firsthand how jumbo loans can open doors to dream homes in high-value markets. Whether you’re eyeing a luxury property or simply dealing with rising real estate prices, understanding jumbo loans is essential for making informed decisions. In…
Read More“I love this home and want to buy it, but what in the world is the extra ‘tax’ I would have to pay?” Understanding PIDs, PUDs, MUDs & More: What Homeowners Should Know.
If you’ve ever looked at a property tax statement or a home listing and seen terms like PID, PUD, MUD, or FWD, you’re not alone in wondering what they mean. These acronyms can be confusing, and they play a big role in determining your property taxes, monthly mortgage payment, and even the community amenities you enjoy. Let’s break down what each of these districts or developments does and why understanding them matters when buying a home. …
Read MoreMortgage FAQ’s: What Every Homebuyer Should Know
Buying a home requires a huge financial decision, and it often comes with just as many questions as it does emotions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, understanding the mortgage process and knowing what you should expect can make all the difference. Below are some of the most frequently asked mortgage questions…
Read MoreMortgage Interest Rates Hit a One-Year Low: Is It Time to Buy or Refinance?
Good news for homebuyers and homeowners: mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest point in a year, creating a window of opportunity for those considering a home purchase or refinance. Whether you’re a first-time or a seasoned buyer who is eager to get into a new home, or a homeowner wondering if it’s time to…
Read More“Whom do I ask for what?!?!” Clarification of the different Roles of Your Mortgage Officer and your Realtor when Buying a Home
Buying a home is an exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, financial and personal milestone. For seasoning homebuyers as well as first-time homebuyers, there are always questions that come up along the way. In those situations, quite often I see buyers not understanding whom to ask what questions. For example, some buyers will talk to their Realtor…
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