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…
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01 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

Building Wealth Through Your Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Your mortgage is more than just a monthly bill; it can be a powerful tool for building long-term wealth. By understanding how to leverage home equity strategically, homeowners can create opportunities for investments, financial growth, and increased net worth. Using your mortgage wisely requires planning, patience, and a clear understanding of how equity works. Understanding Home EquityHome equity is the portion of your home that you truly own, calculated as the difference between your property's current market value and the balance of your mortgage. As you make payments and property values increase, your equity grows. This equity can be tapped…
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30 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Protecting Your Mortgage During Job Loss

Mortgage Tips
Losing a job can be stressful, and the thought of keeping up with your mortgage payments may feel overwhelming. The good news is that there are steps homeowners can take to protect their home and maintain financial stability during periods of unemployment. Understanding your options, communicating with your lender, and planning ahead can help you navigate this challenging time without risking your home. Contact Your Lender ImmediatelyThe first step after losing your job is to notify your mortgage lender as soon as possible. Lenders can often provide temporary solutions, such as forbearance, loan modifications, or repayment plans, to help you…
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26 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Financing Multiple Properties with One Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Owning multiple properties can be a smart investment strategy, but managing separate loans for each property can be complex and expensive. A blanket mortgage offers a solution by allowing homeowners or investors to finance two or more properties under a single loan. This type of mortgage can simplify payments, streamline management, and often provide better rates than holding multiple individual mortgages. Understanding how a blanket mortgage works and when it makes sense can help you maximize your real estate investments efficiently. How Blanket Mortgages WorkA blanket mortgage is a single loan that covers multiple properties, often used by real estate…
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25 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Use a Cash-Out Refinance Wisely

Mortgage Tips
A cash-out refinance can be a powerful tool for homeowners who want to leverage the equity in their home, but it is important to approach it strategically. This type of refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new, larger loan, giving you the difference in cash. Whether you are planning home improvements, consolidating high-interest debt, or investing, using a cash-out refinance wisely can help you reach your financial goals without creating unnecessary risk. Understand Your GoalsBefore pursuing a cash-out refinance, clarify why you need the funds. Are you looking to upgrade your home, pay down debt, or invest in another…
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24 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Smart Ways to Use Bonuses, Inheritances and Tax Refunds for Your Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Unexpected financial windfalls such as work bonuses, tax refunds, or inheritances can create exciting opportunities. While it may be tempting to spend these funds quickly, using them toward your mortgage can bring lasting financial benefits. Understanding the ways windfalls can strengthen your mortgage strategy will help you make the most of these resources. Paying Down PrincipalOne of the most direct ways to use a windfall is to apply it toward your mortgage principal. Reducing the amount you owe can lower future interest costs and help you pay off the loan faster. Even a modest extra payment can shorten your loan…
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23 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Financing Mixed Use Properties: Live, Work, and Invest in One Place

Mortgage Tips
Mixed use properties are becoming an attractive option for buyers who want to combine residential, commercial, and investment opportunities all in one place. These properties can provide unique benefits, such as generating rental income while also serving as a primary residence. However, financing a mixed-use property requires a different approach than financing a traditional single-family home, and understanding the process is key to making the right decision. Understanding Mixed Use PropertiesA mixed use property is one that blends both residential and commercial space within the same building. For example, you might live on the upper floor while renting out a…
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