Recent Articles
Renting and Investing vs. Buying a Home: Which Builds More Wealth Over 5 Years?
In today’s housing market, buyers are facing a challenging combination of high home prices, elevated interest rates, and increased insurance costs. Naturally, many potential buyers are asking: Is it better to rent and invest the difference—or should I buy a home and build equity? Let’s take a closer look at the financial outcome over five years by comparing three popular home loan options with a rental scenario, using realistic assumptions and actual rate disclosures. We'll also factor in the power of compound interest and home appreciation to see how wealth is built through both paths.
Published on 08/03/2025
Housing Market Confusing? Here’s Why You’re Hearing Mixed Messages
Confused by the housing market? You're not alone. Here's why the market feels hot and cold at the same time—and what it means for you as a homebuyer.
Published on 07/30/2025
Could Removing Capital Gains Taxes on Home Sales Revive the Housing Market?
A new proposal suggests removing capital gains taxes on primary home sales to boost the housing market. Here’s what it could mean for homeowners and buyers.
Published on 07/23/2025
Game-Changer: Credit Scores Just Got Rewritten
A new credit scoring update could impact who qualifies for a mortgage and at what rate. Learn what this means for first-time buyers and why now is the time to speak with your loan officer.
Published on 07/16/2025
The Downsides of Low or Zero Down Payment Mortgages
In today’s housing market, home prices are elevated, interest rates remain high, and affordability has become a real challenge for many would-be homeowners. Low or zero down payment mortgage options—such as USDA, VA, or certain FHA loans—can seem like a quick way to achieve homeownership. But before you jump in, it’s important to understand the risks and drawbacks that come with putting little to no money down on a home. Here’s what you need to know before making that commitment, plus how to strengthen your financial position to buy a home smarter.
Published on 07/13/2025
Should You Buy a Home Before Your Divorce is Final? Here’s What to Know
Buying a house before your divorce is finalized? Here’s why it could create legal and financial complications—and how to plan smart.
Published on 07/08/2025
What Really Happens When Your Credit is Pulled – And How OptOutPrescreen Can Protect Your Privacy
If you’ve ever applied for a mortgage, car loan, or credit card, you know your credit report gets pulled as part of the approval process. But have you ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes when that credit check is done – and why you start getting so many pre-approved offers afterward? Here’s what every borrower should know.
Published on 07/07/2025
Why Homeownership Is Still Worth It—Even Beyond the Finances
From mental health benefits to stronger communities, homeownership offers more than just a return on investment—it offers a better quality of life.
Published on 06/25/2025
Have You Found Your Dream Home, But You're Just a Little Short on Cash? Here’s How a Reverse Mortgage for Purchase Could Help
Are you 62 years or older and found your dream home—but realized you’re just a little short of being able to pay for it in full with cash?
Published on 06/20/2025
Mortgage Rates Aren’t Just About the Fed — Here’s What You Really Need to Know
Mortgage rates held steady this week—but not for the reasons you think. Here’s why working with a loan officer beats doing your own research when timing the market.
Published on 06/20/2025
The Real Estate Rule That Just Got Repealed—And Why It’s a Big Win for Buyers
The National Association of Realtors repealed a rule that kept some listings hidden—thanks in part to pressure from homebuyers, tech platforms, and even the DOJ. Learn how this boosts your home search.
Published on 06/13/2025
🏡 Buying a Home in Retirement: Should You Pay Cash or Use a Reverse Mortgage for Purchase?
If you're over 62 and looking to buy your next home—whether it's downsizing, relocating, or finding the perfect place to enjoy your retirement—you might be thinking about paying cash to avoid a mortgage. But before you put all your money into a home, there’s another option to consider: the Reverse Mortgage for Purchase, also known as a HECM for Purchase. It allows you to buy a home using a combination of your own funds and a reverse mortgage—without a monthly mortgage payment. Let’s compare both options so you can decide which makes more sense for your goals and financial situation.
Published on 06/09/2025
The Pros and Cons of a Reverse Mortgage for Purchase: Is It the Right Move for You?
If you're 62 or older and looking to buy a new home, you might be surprised to learn that you don’t need to pay all cash—or take on a traditional monthly mortgage payment. Instead, a reverse mortgage for purchase, also known as a HECM for Purchase (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage), can help you finance part of the home's purchase price while eliminating monthly principal and interest payments. But like any financial product, it comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Here’s what you need to know before deciding if it’s right for you.
Published on 06/07/2025
Why Now Might Be the Best Time in Years to Buy a Home (Seriously)
The housing market is shifting—and it's shifting in your favor. Learn why rising inventory, slower sales, and increased negotiating power mean buyers have the upper hand. Don’t miss your window.
Published on 06/04/2025
USDA Mortgages: A Powerful No Down Payment Option—But Know What You’re Signing Up For
If you’ve been researching home loans and stumbled across the USDA mortgage program, you may have thought, “Wait — I can buy a house with no down payment, get a low interest rate, and maybe not even pay closing costs?” And yes — that’s the magic of the USDA loan. But before you start shopping for homes, there’s something equally important to understand: just because a loan is zero down doesn’t mean it’s zero stress on your monthly budget.
Published on 05/29/2025
The Secret Every Successful Home Seller Knows (But Most Miss)
Discover the simple but powerful secret that helps homeowners sell faster and for top dollar in today's real estate market. Hint: It’s not just about price.
Published on 05/28/2025
I was told that having a 580 Credit Score would allow me to qualify for a USDA Mortgage — Why Can’t I Qualify for a USDA Mortgage?
Many homebuyers are excited to learn that USDA loans only require a minimum credit score of 580 with some lenders. But then comes the shock — they apply, only to find out they’ve been denied. So what gives?
Published on 05/27/2025
April 2025 Housing Market Update: A Shift That Favors Buyers
Home prices are cooling, inventory is rising, and buyers are gaining leverage. See what the April 2025 housing market update means for you.
Published on 05/23/2025
Why a Home Inspection Is a Must for Homebuyers
Learn why a home inspection is essential for buyers—even in a competitive market. Discover how it protects your investment and helps avoid costly surprises.
Published on 05/14/2025
How to Buy a Home With No Down Payment and No Closing Costs Using a USDA Loan
Buying a home without a down payment is already a big win—but what if you could also eliminate your closing costs and walk into a home with almost zero out-of-pocket expenses? That’s exactly what’s possible with a USDA loan when you combine it with the smart use of seller concessions—especially when you find a home that’s already had a price reduction. Let’s break it down and show you exactly how it works.
Published on 05/07/2025