Mortgage Archives - Tawnya King

04 Feb 2026

What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know About Mortgage Origination Fees

Mortgage

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important financial details that can feel overwhelming. Along with your down payment and monthly mortgage payment, there are upfront costs that every buyer should understand before closing. One fee that often raises questions is the mortgage loan origination fee. Knowing what this fee covers and how it affects your overall loan costs can help you feel more confident throughout the mortgage process. What Is a Mortgage Loan Origination FeeA mortgage loan origination fee is an upfront charge from a lender for processing and underwriting your mortgage application. This…

03 Feb 2026

By Tawnya King

5 Financial Signs You Are Ready to Qualify for a Mortgage

Mortgage

Purchasing a home is one of life's biggest milestones, but before you start touring properties, it is important to know whether you are financially prepared to qualify for a mortgage. Many buyers wonder if they are truly ready from a lender's perspective or if they should spend more time strengthening their finances. Mortgage readiness is not about being perfect, it is about having the right financial foundation in place. When several key indicators align, you can move forward with greater confidence and clarity. You Have Consistent, Verifiable IncomeMortgage lenders look for steady and reliable income as one of the first…

12 Dec 2025

By Tawnya King

What Really Happens If You Miss a Mortgage Payment

Mortgage

Missing a mortgage payment can feel scary, especially when you are working hard to manage your finances and stay on track. Life happens, and sometimes unexpected situations make it difficult to pay on time. The good news is that one missed payment does not mean you will lose your home. Understanding what happens behind the scenes, what lenders look for, and how quickly you should take action can help you stay calm, fix the issue, and protect your credit. Know When a Payment Is Considered LateA mortgage payment is typically due on the first of the month, but most lenders…

03 Dec 2025

By Tawnya King

Start the New Year with Strong Finances

Mortgage

The end of the year is the perfect time to review your finances and make smart moves that set you up for success. A few focused steps can strengthen your budget, improve your credit, and prepare you for major goals in the coming year. Review Your BudgetTake a close look at your spending from the past year and note where your money went. Identify areas where you can cut back and redirect those funds to savings or debt reduction. Even small adjustments create real progress over time. Check Your Credit ScoreYour credit plays a major role in loan approvals, interest…

28 Nov 2025

By Tawnya King

The Role of Mortgage Originators in Negotiating Loan Terms with Lenders

Mortgage

Many buyers only see the visible steps in the mortgage process, such as gathering documents or reviewing approval conditions. Behind the scenes, a mortgage originator plays a significant role in advocating for the borrower and helping secure loan terms that match the buyerís financial goals. This guidance can make the entire experience smoother and more successful. How an Originator Reviews Your Financial PictureA mortgage originator begins by understanding your full financial profile. This includes income, credit history, assets and long term goals. By reviewing these details, the originator can identify which loan programs may benefit you most and how to…

14 Nov 2025

By Tawnya King

The History of Mortgages From Ancient Times to Modern Loans

Mortgage

The idea of borrowing money to buy property may seem like a modern concept, but the foundation of the mortgage has been around for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to today's digital lending platforms, the mortgage has evolved alongside society's approach to property ownership, wealth, and security. Understanding where it began offers a fascinating look at how this essential part of homeownership came to be. Ancient BeginningsThe earliest forms of mortgages can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In these societies, property owners could pledge land as security for a loan. If the borrower…

13 Nov 2025

By Tawnya King

Natural Disasters and Mortgages: Forbearance and Insurance Options

Mortgage

When natural disasters strike, homeowners can find themselves facing unexpected challenges. From hurricanes and floods to wildfires and tornadoes, these events can cause major property damage, income loss, and emotional stress. If you have a mortgage, knowing your options for forbearance and insurance relief can make a significant difference in how you recover financially and protect your home. Understanding Mortgage ForbearanceMortgage forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments during times of hardship. After a natural disaster, many lenders and government agencies offer special forbearance programs to affected homeowners. This allows borrowers time to rebuild, repair, or…