22 May 2025
By Tawnya King

What To Do When Your Mortgage Loan is Declined

Mortgage Tips
Getting turned down for a mortgage can be discouraging, but it doesn’t mean the dream of homeownership is over. In fact, understanding why your application was declined is the first step toward making a stronger comeback. Let’s look at some of the most common reasons a mortgage might be denied and what you can do about it. 1. Loan-to-Value (LTV) RatioYour loan-to-value ratio is the percentage of the property’s appraised value that you want to borrow. For instance, if you’re buying a $300,000 home and requesting a $270,000 loan, your LTV is 90%. Lenders typically prefer a lower LTV because…
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21 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Pet-Friendly Mortgages And How Owning Pets Could Affect Your Loan Choices

Mortgage Tips
We love our pets, they are part of the family. But did you know that your furry (or feathered) friend could play a surprising role in your homebuying journey? While your dog probably will not impact your credit score, being a pet owner can influence where and how you buy a home, and even the type of loan you choose.As a mortgage originator, I have worked with many clients who did not realize their pets could affect everything from HOA rules to homeowners’ insurance policies. Here is what you need to know before you start the house hunt with your…
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20 May 2025
By Tawnya King

What Your Coffee Habit Can Teach You About Paying Off Your Mortgage Faster

Mortgage Tips
As your mortgage advisor, I am not here to tell you to give up your favorite coffee, but I am here to show you how something as simple as your daily coffee run can reveal some powerful lessons about how to pay off your mortgage faster. The Cost of Coffee and the Opportunity It HidesLet’s say you spend $5 a day on coffee, five days a week. That is $25 a week, about $100 a month, and $1,200 a year. Over 10 years? That adds up to $12,000.Now imagine if you took just a portion of that and applied it…
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16 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Eco-Friendly Mortgages To Finance Green Homes

Mortgage Tips
As more homeowners seek sustainable living options, eco-friendly mortgages have become a valuable tool for financing energy-efficient homes. These specialized loans offer financial incentives to buyers and homeowners who invest in environmentally friendly properties or upgrades. Understanding how these mortgages work can help you determine if they align with your homeownership and sustainability goals. What Are Eco-Friendly Mortgages?Eco-friendly mortgages, also known as green mortgages, are designed to encourage energy-efficient homeownership. Lenders offer these loans to homebuyers purchasing energy-efficient properties or homeowners making upgrades to improve energy conservation. These loans often come with lower interest rates, higher borrowing limits, or flexible…
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14 May 2025
By Tawnya King

Creative Ways to Finance a Home Renovation with Your Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Renovating a home can be an exciting yet costly endeavor. Whether updating an outdated kitchen, adding more living space, or improving energy efficiency, homeowners often seek financing options that make renovations more affordable. One strategic way to fund home improvements is by leveraging your mortgage. Several loan programs and refinancing options allow homeowners to roll renovation costs into their mortgage, making upgrades more accessible and financially manageable. 1. Renovation LoansRenovation loans combine the cost of home improvements with the mortgage, allowing homeowners to finance both under a single loan. Some of the most popular options include: FHA 203(k) Loan –…
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13 May 2025
By Tawnya King

The Rise of Mortgage Payment Protection Insurance

Mortgage Tips
For many homeowners, a mortgage is one of the largest financial commitments they will ever undertake. With economic uncertainty, job market fluctuations, and unforeseen life events, many borrowers seek additional safeguards to ensure they can meet their mortgage obligations. One such safeguard that has gained prominence in recent years is Mortgage Payment Protection Insurance (MPPI). What is Mortgage Payment Protection Insurance?Mortgage Payment Protection Insurance (MPPI) is a type of insurance policy designed to cover a homeowner's mortgage payments in the event of income loss due to circumstances such as unemployment, illness, or disability. Typically, these policies provide coverage for a…
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