Blog - Tawnya King

10 Oct 2025

The Connection Between Your Debt-to-Income Ratio and Mortgage Approval

Mortgage Tips

When applying for a mortgage, one of the most important factors lenders review is your debt-to-income ratio. This simple calculation helps determine how much of your monthly income is already committed to paying debts, and it plays a major role in whether you qualify for a home loan. Understanding how this ratio works can improve your chances of securing the right mortgage. What Debt to Income Ratio MeansYour debt-to-income ratio, often called DTI, measures the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying debts. These debts include credit cards, car loans, student loans, and the expected mortgage payment. Lenders…

09 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

Reverse Mortgages for Retirement Planning

Mortgage Tips

As homeowners approach retirement, many begin to think about how to maximize their financial security while maintaining independence. For those who own a home with significant equity, a reverse mortgage can provide an additional source of income. While this product is not right for everyone, it can be a powerful tool for retirees who want to supplement their savings. How Reverse Mortgages WorkA reverse mortgage allows homeowners aged 62 or older to convert a portion of their home equity into cash. Unlike traditional mortgages, there are no monthly payments required. Instead, the loan balance grows over time and is repaid…

08 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

Creative Mortgage Options Shared Appreciation and Other Alternatives

Mortgage Tips

Traditional mortgages are not the only way to finance a home. For buyers who want more flexibility or who face unique financial circumstances, creative mortgage options can provide alternative pathways to homeownership. These products are not always as well-known as standard fixed-rate loans, but they can be powerful tools when used wisely. Shared Appreciation Mortgages ExplainedA shared appreciation mortgage allows a lender or investor to provide a loan in exchange for a percentage of the future appreciation of the property. This often means lower monthly payments or reduced upfront costs for the borrower. When the home is sold, refinanced, or…

07 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

Interest-Only Mortgages Explained

Mortgage Tips

When shopping for a mortgage, you may come across an option that allows you to pay only the interest for the first several years of the loan. These are called interest-only mortgages, and while they may sound appealing at first glance, they are not the right fit for everyone. Understanding how they work and who benefits from them is key to making a smart decision. How Interest-Only Mortgages WorkAn interest-only mortgage allows borrowers to pay only the interest on their loan for an initial period, often five to ten years. During this time, monthly payments are much lower compared to…

06 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

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

Financial Reports

The release of key Unemployment Data was delayed last week due to administrative changes in how jobless figures are tracked. The Consumer Confidence report reflects these policy adjustments, showing growing concerns about the job market and a larger-than-expected decline in confidence for September. Lastly, with tariff disruptions continuing to affect the manufacturing sector, the Global US Manufacturing data has revealed that production has slowed overall since the initial disruptions. Manufacturing PMIThe latest survey showed a weaker gain in production, whilst new order book growth softened as tariffs continued to weigh on exports. Tariffs and broader policy uncertainty also dampened firms’…

03 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

Special Mortgage Programs for Heroes

Mortgage Tips

First responders and military families play vital roles in our communities, and there are mortgage programs designed to recognize their service. These programs often provide favorable terms, lower down payments, and unique benefits that make homeownership more accessible. Understanding these options can help heroes and their families achieve their dream of owning a home while taking advantage of benefits tailored to their service. VA Loans for Military FamiliesOne of the most well-known mortgage options for military personnel is the VA loan, which offers 100 percent financing with no down payment, competitive interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance requirement. VA…

02 Oct 2025

By Tawnya King

Financing Land and New Construction Homes

Mortgage Tips

Buying land or constructing a new home offers exciting opportunities for customization and investment, but the mortgage process differs from traditional home loans. Lenders often have stricter requirements for land and new construction financing, so understanding your options, planning ahead, and working closely with a mortgage professional is essential. By knowing what to expect, you can navigate this process smoothly and secure the financing needed to bring your vision to life. Land Loans: What You Need to KnowPurchasing raw land typically requires a land loan, which differs from a standard mortgage. Lenders consider land riskier because it is not yet…