Blog - Tawnya King

17 Jun 2026

How Job Changes Can Impact Your Mortgage Approval Timeline

Mortgage Tips

Many homebuyers are surprised to learn that changing jobs during the mortgage process can affect their loan approval. While a new position is not always a problem, lenders need to verify that your income is stable and likely to continue. If you are planning a career move while shopping for a home, it is important to understand how that decision may affect your mortgage timeline. Why Lenders Review Employment CarefullyWhen approving a mortgage, lenders evaluate your ability to repay the loan over time. Employment history is one of the key factors used to assess financial stability. Lenders typically verify your…

16 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Pre-Approval Expiration Dates Matter More Than Buyers Realize

Home Buyer Tips

Getting pre-approved is one of the most important first steps in the home buying process. Many buyers assume that once they receive a pre-approval letter, they are set until they find a home. In reality, pre-approvals are only valid for a limited period of time, and allowing one to expire can create delays, additional paperwork, and even changes to your borrowing power. Understanding how pre-approval timelines work can help you stay prepared when the right home becomes available.Why Pre-Approvals Have Expiration DatesA mortgage pre-approval is based on information available at a specific point in time. Your lender reviews factors such as…

15 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 15th, 2026

Financial Reports

With the inflation reports showing their cards, the Consumer Price Index has shown to be in line with expectations, but unexpectedly the Producer Price Index has come in substantially higher than expected. This may indicate that future core cost increases are headed for consumers, as rising costs are passed through producers and businesses down to the customer level. This is somewhat offset by Consumer Sentiment having risen, breaking a three-month downward trend. Largely due to the deal with Iran that took place this weekend, there appears to be considerable optimism that fuel prices will return to previous norms. This makes…

12 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why The Cheapest Mortgage Is Not Always The Best Mortgage

Home Buyer Tips

It is natural to want the lowest possible mortgage cost. Buying a home is a major financial decision, and every dollar matters. But the cheapest mortgage on the surface is not always the best mortgage for your situation. A low rate or low fee means very little if the loan structure, service, or long-term fit does not support your goals. Look Beyond the Lowest RateThe interest rate is important, but it is not the only factor. A lower rate may come with points, higher closing costs, different terms, or tradeoffs that affect your total cost. Before choosing a mortgage, make…

11 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Your Loan Type Should Match Your Long-Term Plan

Mortgage Tips

Choosing a mortgage is about getting approved. It is about choosing a loan type that fits your goals, timeline, budget, and future plans. The right loan for 1 buyer may not be the right loan for another, even if they are buying similar homes. That is why your long-term plan matters. Start With How Long You May StayYour expected timeline can influence the loan conversation. A buyer planning to stay for many years may think differently than a buyer who expects to move in a few years. The right structure may depend on whether you are focused on payment stability,…

10 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Cash Reserves Can Matter As Much As Your Down Payment

Mortgage Tips

Many buyers focus heavily on saving for the down payment. That is important, but it is not the only money that matters when buying a home. Cash reserves can be just as important because they help protect you after closing. A strong home purchase plan should include both the money needed to buy the home and the money needed to feel secure once you own it. What Reserves MeanCash reserves are funds left over after your down payment and closing costs are paid. They may be in savings, checking, or other eligible accounts depending on the loan program. These funds…

09 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

What Buyers Should Know About Rate Quotes Before Comparing Lenders

Mortgage Tips

Comparing mortgage rates can feel simple at first. A buyer asks a few lenders for a rate, looks for the lowest number, and assumes that is the best option. But rate quotes can be more complicated than they appear. To compare lenders fairly, you need to know what is behind the quote. Timing MattersMortgage rates can change daily, and sometimes more than once in a day. A quote from Monday morning may not compare fairly to a quote from Wednesday afternoon. Market conditions, timing, and lock status can all affect the number. When comparing options, try to gather quotes around…