01 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

Building Wealth Through Your Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Your mortgage is more than just a monthly bill; it can be a powerful tool for building long-term wealth. By understanding how to leverage home equity strategically, homeowners can create opportunities for investments, financial growth, and increased net worth. Using your mortgage wisely requires planning, patience, and a clear understanding of how equity works. Understanding Home EquityHome equity is the portion of your home that you truly own, calculated as the difference between your property's current market value and the balance of your mortgage. As you make payments and property values increase, your equity grows. This equity can be tapped…
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25 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Use a Cash-Out Refinance Wisely

Mortgage Tips
A cash-out refinance can be a powerful tool for homeowners who want to leverage the equity in their home, but it is important to approach it strategically. This type of refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new, larger loan, giving you the difference in cash. Whether you are planning home improvements, consolidating high-interest debt, or investing, using a cash-out refinance wisely can help you reach your financial goals without creating unnecessary risk. Understand Your GoalsBefore pursuing a cash-out refinance, clarify why you need the funds. Are you looking to upgrade your home, pay down debt, or invest in another…
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30 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Remove PMI Without Refinancing

Personal Finance
Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is often required when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than twenty percent. While PMI helps lenders reduce risk, it adds extra cost to your monthly mortgage payment. The good news is that you may be able to remove PMI without refinancing your loan. Understanding the options available can help you save money and accelerate building equity in your home. Understand When PMI Can Be RemovedFederal law, specifically the Homeowners Protection Act, requires lenders to automatically cancel PMI once your loan balance reaches eighty percent of the original home value. You can also…
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12 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Leverage Home Equity for Financial Freedom

Mortgage Tips
If you’ve owned your home for a few years, chances are you have built up equity, maybe more than you realize. But what exactly is home equity, and how can you use it to build wealth, reduce debt, or increase financial flexibility? We will discuss how homeowners are turning their built-up equity into tools for financial freedom, and how you can, too. What Is Home Equity?Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your home is valued at $450,000 and you owe $250,000, you have $200,000…
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16 Apr 2025
By Tawnya King

The Facts and Fictions of Reverse Mortgages

Mortagage Tips
A reverse mortgage can be a powerful financial tool for homeowners aged 62 and older, providing access to home equity without the burden of monthly mortgage payments. If you're considering this option, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process. Steps to Secure a Reverse Mortgage Meet with a Reverse Mortgage SpecialistBefore moving forward, consult with a professional to discuss your financial goals and determine if a reverse mortgage aligns with your needs. A specialist can explain the benefits, risks, and available options to ensure you make an informed decision. Complete HUD-Approved CounselingA mandatory counseling session with a…
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26 Feb 2025
By Tawnya King

Creative Ways to Use Home Equity Loans for Investment

Investment Properties
For homeowners looking to build wealth, a home equity loan can be a powerful financial tool. With the equity in your home, you can access funds at relatively low interest rates and put that money to work in smart, strategic ways. If you’re wondering how to leverage your home’s value for investment, here are some creative options to consider. 1. Real Estate Investments One of the most popular ways to use a home equity loan is to invest in additional real estate. Whether you're purchasing a rental property, flipping a home, or buying land for development, using your home’s equity…
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31 Jan 2025
By Tawnya King

Should You Use Home Equity to Pay for College?

Mortgage
Higher education can be one of the most significant financial investments you'll make, second only to purchasing a home. While federal loans are a common method for covering college costs, using your home’s equity is another option to consider. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of tapping into your home equity to pay for college. The Financial Cost of College Just as most buyers need a mortgage to finance a home, many families rely on loans to fund college expenses. The average net price of college, which accounts for tuition, room, and board after…
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