21 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Why Regular Home Maintenance Is More Than Just a Chore

Around The Home
Owning a home is huge and one of the most valuable investments many of us will ever make. Like any valuable asset, your home requires care and upkeep to ensure it stays in great condition, retains value, and remains a safe, comfortable haven. Here’s why making regular home maintenance a priority pays off in the long run: 1. Preserve Property ValueA well-maintained home can significantly enhance curb appeal and preserve, or even increase, property value. Regular upkeep such as painting the exterior, maintaining landscaping, and fixing minor issues as they arise helps prevent wear and tear. If you ever decide…
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20 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Top 5 Mortgage Types for Homebuyers

Home Mortgage Tips
When you're preparing to buy a home, choosing the right mortgage is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know which type best suits your needs. Each mortgage type comes with unique advantages and understanding them can help you achieve your homeownership goals in a financially sustainable way. Below, we outlined the five of the most common mortgage types and how they differ. 1. Conventional Fixed-Rate MortgageOne of the most popular options for homebuyers, the conventional fixed-rate mortgage offers consistency and predictability. With this loan, the interest rate remains…
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19 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Tips for a More Productive and Comfortable Home Office Space

Homeowner Tips
As remote work continues to progress, having a well-designed home office is more than just a luxury, it has become a necessity. A thoughtfully created workspace can increase productivity, boost creativity, and promote overall well-being. As a mortgage originator, I’ve seen how creating a productive environment impacts work-from-home efficiency and comfort. Whether you’re setting up a corner nook or dedicating an entire room, here are six practical ideas to transform your home office into an ideal place to get things done. 1. Pick the Perfect SpotThe location of your home office can greatly affect your ability to concentrate and stay…
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18 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 18th, 2024

Financial Reports
With the release of the latest CPI and PPI data, inflation has increased month-to-month for the first time since March, marking the first rise in over seven months. The Federal Reserve has reiterated its goal of reducing inflation to a 2% target within a year. While this development doesn't necessarily indicate an imminent interest rate hike, it suggests that current rates may remain unchanged for an extended period. Earlier optimism about a potential rate cut by the end of the year has significantly diminished in light of recent inflation figures and economic data. However, Retail Sales data presents a more…
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15 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Difference Between Mortgage Brokers and Mortgage Lenders

Home Buyer Tips
When you’re ready to buy a home, one of the first steps is securing a mortgage. While many people simply turn to their current bank for a loan, there are other options to consider that might provide better rates and terms for your situation.  This is where understanding the difference between a mortgage broker and a mortgage lender can help. Both play essential roles in the home loan process, but they function in very different ways. Let’s break it down so you can determine which path might work best for you when seeking mortgage financing. What is a Mortgage Lender?…
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14 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

How Women Can Navigate the Path to Ownership with Confidence

Mortagage Tips
In recent years, single women have emerged as a powerful force in the real estate market, breaking barriers and taking control of their financial futures. According to recent data, single women now own more homes than single men, with nearly 20 million women homeowners in the U.S., representing a growing trend of resilience and empowerment. This surge in homeownership among women has come even in the face of economic challenges, including the financial fallout of the pandemic. Whether you're already envisioning your dream home or just starting your search, navigating the homeownership journey as a single woman comes with unique…
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13 Nov 2024
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Components of Your Monthly Mortgage Payment

Mortgage
If you’re new to homeownership, you might be wondering exactly what makes up the mortgage payment you’re sending each month. Beyond just the loan amount itself, there are several different components that all factor into your monthly mortgage payment. Understanding these components not only helps you see where your money is going but can also assist you in optimizing your mortgage and possibly securing a better rate. 1. Principal The principal is the amount of money you originally borrowed to purchase the home. It represents the bulk of your loan balance and is paid down over the term of your…
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