05 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

The Impact of Inflation on Mortgage Rates and Home Affordability

Mortgage
Inflation has made a loud and lasting entrance into our daily lives. From groceries to gas prices, everything seems more expensive. One of the most significant areas where inflation leaves its mark is in the housing market, particularly mortgage rates and home affordability. As inflation continues to fluctuate, many potential homebuyers are left wondering how it all connects, and what it means for their financial future. How Inflation Drives Mortgage RatesInflation refers to the rise in the cost of goods and services over time. When inflation is high, the Federal Reserve typically responds by raising the federal funds rate in…
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04 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Pay Off Your Mortgage 10 Years Early Without Extra Payments

Mortgage
If you're like most homeowners, the idea of paying off your mortgage early sounds amazing—more freedom, fewer monthly expenses, and peace of mind. But what if you could shave 10 years off your mortgage without making extra payments each month? Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! There are smart strategies that don’t require more money out of pocket, just a little planning and a fresh approach. As a mortgage originator, I have helped many clients explore options that save them time and interest. Here’s how you can, too. Refinance to a Shorter Term:One of the most effective ways…
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03 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

Will Multiple Mortgage Applications Hurt Your Credit Score?

Mortgage
When you are ready to buy a home, it is natural to shop around for the best mortgage rate and terms. But you may have heard that submitting multiple loan applications can damage your credit score and throw a wrench in your homebuying plans. Here is the truth behind hard inquiries, rate shopping, and how to protect your credit while securing the best deal. Understanding Hard Inquiries vs. Soft InquiriesWhenever a lender runs your credit, whether for a credit card, auto loan, or mortgage, they generate a hard inquiry on your report. Hard inquiries can lower your score by a…
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29 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Sweet Loans for Every Taste: Which Mortgage Treat Is Right for You?

Mortgage
Let’s face it, picking the right mortgage can feel overwhelming. But what if we made it more fun? Think of home loans like candy bars: each one has a distinct flavor, a specific audience, and its own perfect time and place. Whether you're buying your first home, building your dream house, or tapping into retirement equity, there’s a mortgage match made just for you. So let’s have a little fun with this sweet comparison... FHA Loan – Milky WaySmooth, classic, and made for first-timers.FHA loans are the Milky Way of the mortgage world, soft, reliable, and oh-so-comforting. Designed for buyers…
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08 May 2025
By Tawnya King

The Impact of Rental Income on Mortgage Qualification

Mortgage
For real estate investors and homeowners looking to purchase additional properties, rental income can play a crucial role in mortgage qualification. Lenders often consider this income when assessing a borrower’s ability to repay a loan, but the way it is calculated and applied varies based on different loan programs and underwriting guidelines. Understanding how rental income factors into mortgage approval can help buyers maximize their borrowing potential and secure favorable financing terms. How Lenders Assess Rental IncomeLenders typically evaluate rental income based on documentation such as lease agreements, tax returns, and property appraisals. The amount of income they recognize depends…
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18 Apr 2025
By Tawnya King

What Every Buyer Should Know About Home Appraisals

Mortgage
Buying a home is an exciting yet complex process, and one critical step often catches buyers off guard—the home appraisal. This professional evaluation determines the fair market value of a property, ensuring that both you and your lender are making a sound investment. Understanding how appraisals work can help you navigate this stage with confidence and avoid potential roadblocks. What Is a Home Appraisal? A home appraisal is an unbiased, professional assessment of a property's value, conducted by a licensed appraiser. Mortgage lenders require an appraisal before approving a loan to confirm that the home's value aligns with the purchase…
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17 Apr 2025
By Tawnya King

Why Did My Mortgage Lender Change?

Mortgage
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial steps you’ll ever take. After securing a mortgage, you expect to send your payments to the same lender for years to come. So, when you receive a notice saying your mortgage has been sold and your payments should now go to a different company, it might feel alarming. However, this is a common practice in the mortgage industry, and it doesn’t change the terms of your loan. Understanding why mortgages are sold can help ease any concerns. Why Do Lenders Sell Mortgages? When a lender issues a mortgage, they provide…
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