Blog - Tawnya King

31 Jul 2026

How Homeowners Can Prepare for Unexpected Major Expenses

Mortgage Tips

Owning a home brings many rewards, but it also comes with financial responsibilities that renters often do not experience. While routine maintenance can usually be planned, unexpected repairs such as a new roof, broken water heater, HVAC replacement, or plumbing emergency can happen without warning. Preparing for these expenses before they arise can help protect both your home and your financial well-being. Build a Dedicated Home Emergency FundOne of the smartest steps homeowners can take is creating a savings account specifically for home repairs. Setting aside a small amount each month can gradually build a reserve that helps cover unexpected…

30 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Annual Mortgage Checkups Are a Smart Financial Habit

Mortgage Rates

Your mortgage is one of the largest financial commitments you will ever make, yet many homeowners rarely review it after closing. Just as annual physicals help you stay healthy, an annual mortgage checkup can help ensure your loan, insurance, taxes, and financial goals remain aligned. Spending a few minutes reviewing your mortgage each year can uncover opportunities to save money and avoid costly surprises. Review Your Interest RateMortgage rates change over time, and so do your financial goals. While refinancing is not the right choice for everyone, reviewing current market conditions can help you determine whether opportunities exist to lower…

29 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

What Documents Should You Keep After Buying a Home?

Mortgage Tips

Buying a home comes with a significant amount of paperwork, and once the excitement of closing day has passed, it can be tempting to file everything away without another thought. However, keeping the right documents organized can save time, reduce stress, and protect your investment if questions or unexpected situations arise in the future. Keep Your Closing DocumentsYour closing package contains important records that document the purchase of your home. This includes the Closing Disclosure, settlement statement, promissory note, deed, and mortgage documents. These records provide proof of ownership, outline the terms of your loan, and may be needed if…

28 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

How Your Insurance Choices Affect Homeownership Costs

Mortgage Tips

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial investments most people will ever make but protecting that investment is just as important. Homeowners insurance is often viewed as another monthly bill, yet the coverage you choose can have a significant impact on both your budget and your financial security. Understanding your options can help you balance affordability with the protection your home deserves. Coverage Is More Than Just the PremiumIt is natural to compare insurance quotes based on price, but the lowest premium is not always the best value. Policies can vary in what they cover, how much they…

27 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 27th, 2026

Financial Reports

The PCE Index inflation data is expected to come in lower this week than the previous month's reading. With the Federal Reserve's rate decision set to arrive soon, the prior week was relatively light in terms of economic data. Despite inflation continuing to trend lower, this is unlikely to have an impact on the rate decision later this week. However, it will likely spark further discussion about the current state of the economy. Although inflation remains persistent, there have also been several encouraging developments. Economic IndicatorsThe US Leading Economic Index decreased by 0.2% in June 2026, driven by weak consumer…

24 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

How a Small Down Payment Can Still Lead to Homeownership

Mortgage Tips

Many people believe they need a large down payment before they can buy a home. While making a larger down payment can have benefits, it is not the only path to homeownership. Today's mortgage programs offer a variety of options that allow qualified buyers to purchase a home with much less money upfront than they may expect. Understanding these opportunities can help turn the dream of owning a home into a reality sooner than you think. There Are More Loan Options Than You May RealizeMany buyers assume they need to save 20 percent of a home's purchase price before applying…

23 Jul 2026

By Tawnya King

Should You Lock Your Interest Rate Right Away?

Mortgage Tips

Choosing the right mortgage involves more than finding the right home. One of the most important decisions during the loan process is whether to lock your interest rate. Many buyers wonder if they should secure today's rate or wait to see if rates improve. The answer depends on several factors, including market conditions, your closing timeline, and your comfort level with uncertainty. What Is a Rate Lock?A rate lock is an agreement between you and your lender that guarantees a specific interest rate for a set period of time. Most rate locks last between 30 and 60 days, although longer…