Recent Articles
What is a 3.5% Down Payment FHA Loan? (And How to Qualify for It)
If you’ve been dreaming of buying a home but worry about the size of the down payment, an FHA loan with just 3.5% down might be the key to turning that dream into reality.
Published on 08/11/2025
How to Calculate How Much Home You Can Afford: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homebuyers
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. But before you start browsing listings, it’s essential to understand how much home you can afford based on your income. This blog will guide you through the process of calculating your affordability using your monthly income, and show you how different types of loans and financial factors influence your home purchase decision.
Published on 08/10/2025
Rates Just Hit a 10-Month Low!
Mortgage rates just hit their lowest levels since October 2024 following a big shift in the bond market. Here’s why it matters for homebuyers and homeowners.
Published on 08/05/2025
It’s Getting Harder to Qualify for a Mortgage—Here are some ideas of what you can possibly do about i.t
In today’s housing market, the dream of homeownership feels further out of reach for many buyers. Even with attractive programs like zero down payment USDA loans or down payment assistance options, the reality is that financing any amount over $300,000 can be financially challenging. Why? Because it’s not just about the price of the home anymore. It’s also about elevated interest rates, elevated home prices, high property taxes, and increasing homeowner insurance premiums—all of which directly impact your monthly mortgage payment and your ability to qualify. Let’s break down the challenges and look at how you can overcome them.
Published on 08/04/2025
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