05 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

The Impact of Inflation on Mortgage Rates and Home Affordability

Mortgage
Inflation has made a loud and lasting entrance into our daily lives. From groceries to gas prices, everything seems more expensive. One of the most significant areas where inflation leaves its mark is in the housing market, particularly mortgage rates and home affordability. As inflation continues to fluctuate, many potential homebuyers are left wondering how it all connects, and what it means for their financial future. How Inflation Drives Mortgage RatesInflation refers to the rise in the cost of goods and services over time. When inflation is high, the Federal Reserve typically responds by raising the federal funds rate in…
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04 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage 10 Years Early Without Extra Payments

Mortgage
If you're like most homeowners, the idea of paying off your mortgage early sounds amazing—more freedom, fewer monthly expenses, and peace of mind. But what if you could shave 10 years off your mortgage without making extra payments each month? Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! There are smart strategies that don’t require more money out of pocket, just a little planning and a fresh approach. As a mortgage originator, I have helped many clients explore options that save them time and interest. Here’s how you can, too. Refinance to a Shorter Term:One of the most effective ways…
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03 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

Will Multiple Mortgage Applications Hurt Your Credit Score?

Mortgage
When you are ready to buy a home, it is natural to shop around for the best mortgage rate and terms. But you may have heard that submitting multiple loan applications can damage your credit score and throw a wrench in your homebuying plans. Here is the truth behind hard inquiries, rate shopping, and how to protect your credit while securing the best deal. Understanding Hard Inquiries vs. Soft InquiriesWhenever a lender runs your credit, whether for a credit card, auto loan, or mortgage, they generate a hard inquiry on your report. Hard inquiries can lower your score by a…
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02 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 2nd, 2025

Financial Reports
The PCE Index release—the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator—has shown favorable results. However, the overwhelming sentiment remains one of uncertainty due to the ongoing trade wars. With these conflicts still in full swing, inflation is expected to rise in the near future at a faster-than-anticipated pace. Following the recent trade truce with China, consumer sentiment has improved, though the long-term impact remains uncertain. As expected, consumer spending has declined noticeably, as the tariffs have led to short-term price increases. PCE IndexThe cost of living barely rose in April — and the rate of inflation slowed even closer to prepandemic levels…
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30 May 2025
By Tawnya King

What Every Homebuyer Should Know About How Are Property Taxes Calculated

Home Buying Tips
When buying a home, it’s easy to focus on the down payment and mortgage rate, but don’t overlook property taxes. They can significantly affect your monthly payment and long-term budget and understanding how they’re calculated is key to making smart homebuying decisions. We will break down the basics and highlight a few often-missed factors that could influence how much you’ll pay. The Property Tax FormulaProperty taxes are calculated based on the assessed value of your property multiplied by your local tax rate:Assessed Value × Local Tax Rate = Annual Property Tax The assessed value is determined by your local taxing…
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29 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Sweet Loans for Every Taste: Which Mortgage Treat Is Right for You?

Mortgage
Let’s face it, picking the right mortgage can feel overwhelming. But what if we made it more fun? Think of home loans like candy bars: each one has a distinct flavor, a specific audience, and its own perfect time and place. Whether you're buying your first home, building your dream house, or tapping into retirement equity, there’s a mortgage match made just for you. So let’s have a little fun with this sweet comparison... FHA Loan – Milky WaySmooth, classic, and made for first-timers.FHA loans are the Milky Way of the mortgage world, soft, reliable, and oh-so-comforting. Designed for buyers…
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28 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Is Owner Financing Your Home the Smartest Move?

Home Selling Tips
Deciding to sell your home can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to maximize profit and close quickly. One strategy gaining popularity is owner financing (also known as seller financing). But is it right for you? Let's discuss how it works, when to consider it, and the key factors every seller should weigh. Why Buyers Ask for Owner Financing Most buyers secure a mortgage through a bank or credit union. When a prospective purchaser requests you to carry their loan, ask yourself: Credit Constraints: Do they lack sufficient credit history or have a low credit score? Down Payment Challenges: Are…
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