Tawnya King

09 Jan 2025

How to Strengthen Your Mortgage Application and Boost Approval Chances

Mortgage Application

Your mortgage application is more than just paperwork—it’s your chance to demonstrate to lenders that you’re a reliable and financially stable borrower. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade, a strong application can make a significant difference in securing favorable terms. Here are practical steps you can take to improve your mortgage application and maximize your chances of approval. 1. Focus on Your Credit Score Your credit score is one of the most critical factors lenders consider. A higher score shows financial responsibility and reduces the perceived risk of lending to you. To enhance your credit score: Pay…

08 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

Can You Use Income From Two Jobs to Qualify for a Mortgage?

Homeowner Tips

Balancing two jobs or a full-time career with a side hustle can be rewarding, not just for your wallet but also when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage. Lenders recognize that additional income can strengthen your application, but there are specific rules to ensure your income is reliable and sustainable. If you’re wondering whether you can use the income from two jobs to qualify for your dream home, the answer is yes, but there are some important factors to consider. How Lenders View Your Income Primary Job IncomeYour main job is the backbone of your financial profile and carries…

07 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

How to Avoid Mortgage Scams and Stay Safe When Buying a Home

Home Mortgage Tips

Scams are everywhere, and the mortgage world is no exception. As you start the exciting journey of homeownership, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and arm yourself with knowledge to protect your investment. Here’s what you need to know about common mortgage scams and how to safeguard your financial future. Common Mortgage Scams to Watch Out For 1. Wire FraudOne of the most common and devastating scams is wire fraud. Scammers impersonate your lender or title company, sending fake instructions to transfer your closing funds. Victims often lose their money with little chance of recovery. What to…

06 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 6th, 2025

Financial Reports

With the holiday season coming to a conclusion, there was little in the way of data releases. Last week, the main reports were the Chicago Business Barometer and the ISM Manufacturing Index, both indicating a slight contraction in the manufacturing sector. This comes as we await the upcoming administration change at the White House. The impact of this is relatively minimal, with lending rates continuing their downward trend. Next week we will be expecting the year-over-year for both the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI), wrapping up 2024. Chicago PMI The Chicago Business Barometer, also known as…

03 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

Start the New Year with a Clean Slate

Credit Scoring

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on understanding and improving your credit score. Whether you’re planning to buy a home, refinance, or simply enhance your financial health, your credit score plays a pivotal role in shaping your opportunities. Let this be the year you clean up your credit and take control of your financial future! What is a Credit Score? Your credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 850, that represents your creditworthiness. It’s used by lenders to assess how likely you are to repay debts on time. Scores…

02 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

How Mortgage Rates Are Determined

Mortgage Rates

When you’re looking to purchase a home or refinance an existing mortgage, understanding how mortgage rates are determined is key to navigating your financial journey. These rates are influenced by a combination of personal financial factors and broader economic conditions, which work together to impact how much you’ll pay over the life of your loan. 1. Your Credit Score One of the most significant factors influencing your mortgage rate is your credit score. This three-digit number reflects your financial responsibility and creditworthiness. Borrowers with higher credit scores typically receive lower interest rates because they are considered less risky by lenders.…

01 Jan 2025

By Tawnya King

Cheers to New Beginnings and New Opportunities in 2025!

Holidays

As we step into 2025, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all my clients and those considering the journey to homeownership. A new year means fresh opportunities to turn your dreams into reality. Whether you're planning to buy your first home, refinance, or invest in your future, I’m here to help every step of the way. Let’s make this year the one where your goals come to life. Wishing you health, happiness, and success in 2025!