Blog - Tawnya King

12 Jun 2026

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…

08 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 8th, 2026

Financial Reports

Unemployment data has been released, revealing an interesting trend: different demographic groups are facing varying, and in some cases significantly higher, levels of unemployment. While the overall unemployment rate has remained steady at 4.3%, some demographics are experiencing substantially higher unemployment within their respective fields. This comes alongside hourly wage reports which have met the expected growth level for this month. Historically, however, wage growth has been offset by inflation rising at a much faster pace. As a result, many Americans have found the cost of living increasingly difficult to manage as they attempt to economize and cope with rising…

05 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Your Credit Score Is Only One Piece Of The Mortgage Picture

Mortgage Tips

Many buyers worry about their credit score before applying for a mortgage. That makes sense because credit can affect loan options, interest rate, and overall approval strength. But your credit score is only 1 piece of the mortgage picture. A strong loan file includes several parts working together. Credit Matters, But It Is Not EverythingYour credit score helps lenders understand how you have managed debt in the past. It can influence pricing and program options, but it does not tell the full story. A buyer with a strong score may still need to document income, manage debt levels, and show…

04 Jun 2026

By Tawnya King

Why Your Monthly Payment Matters More Than Your Purchase Price

Mortgage Tips

Buyers often focus on the purchase price first. It is easy to compare homes by listing price and assume that a lower price automatically means a better fit. But when you are financing a home, the amount that affects your everyday life most is the monthly payment. That payment is what shows up in your budget month after month. Look at the Full PaymentYour mortgage payment is more than principal and interest. It may also include property taxes, homeowners insurance, mortgage insurance, homeowners association dues, and escrow changes over time. 2 homes with the same purchase price can have very…