08 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Finance Energy-Efficient Home Improvements with a Mortgage

Mortgage
As more homeowners look for ways to reduce utility bills and make their homes environmentally friendly, energy-efficient improvements have become a smart investment. The good news is that you do not need to pay out of pocket for all the upgrades at once. There are mortgage financing options that allow you to make energy-efficient improvements while also making your home more comfortable and affordable in the long run. One of the most common ways to finance these improvements is through an Energy Efficient Mortgage, or EEM. This type of loan is designed to help borrowers finance energy-saving upgrades as part…
Read More
04 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

Reflecting on the Meaning of Independence Day

Mortgage
As Americans prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, it is important to reflect on the core values that define our nation: freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of a better life. These same ideals continue to inspire individuals and families across the country to pursue homeownership, which remains a foundational part of financial independence and long-term security. A Historic Commitment to Liberty and OpportunityIndependence Day commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This historic moment marked the beginning of a new chapter, centered on liberty and self-determination. Today, those principles are still deeply connected to the American…
Read More
03 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Basics of Mortgage Securitization

Mortgage
What Is Mortgage Securitization?Mortgage securitization is the financial process of pooling together multiple mortgage loans and converting them into tradable investment securities. These securities are then sold to investors in the secondary market. This process provides liquidity to lenders, enabling them to issue more loans and support continued access to home financing. How the Process WorksThe process typically begins with a lender originating mortgage loans. These loans are then sold to a financial institution or a government-sponsored enterprise such as Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. The institution bundles the loans into a mortgage-backed security (MBS), which is structured and issued…
Read More
02 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Federal Housing Administration Title I Home Improvement Loan Program

Mortgage
Introduction to the ProgramThe Federal Housing Administration Title I Home Improvement Loan Program is a government-backed initiative designed to help homeowners finance necessary repairs, upgrades, and improvements to their primary residence. Established under the National Housing Act, this program makes funding accessible for individuals who may not qualify for traditional home equity loans due to limited equity or lower credit scores. Purpose and Scope of the LoanThis loan program was created to support the maintenance and improvement of existing housing, thereby preserving the nation's housing stock and enhancing community stability. The funds can be used for a wide range of…
Read More
01 Jul 2025
By Tawnya King

The Impact of Gender and Race on Mortgage Approval Rates

Mortgage
Addressing Inequity in LendingThe mortgage approval process is a critical step in the path to homeownership. While lending guidelines are designed to promote fair and consistent evaluation, studies have shown that disparities persist based on gender and race. These differences raise important concerns about equal access to credit and the long-term effects on wealth building, community development, and financial equity in the United States. Understanding the Approval ProcessMortgage approval decisions are based on a range of factors, including credit history, income, employment, debt-to-income ratio, and property value. In principle, these criteria are applied uniformly. However, when outcomes differ significantly across…
Read More
27 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

From Pre-Approval to Closing What to Expect in the Mortgage Journey

Mortgage
June is National Homeownership Month, making it the perfect time to understand the full path to homeownership. If you are planning to buy a home, especially for the first time, knowing what to expect during the mortgage process can take away much of the stress. This guide walks you through each step and highlights how working with the right mortgage professional keeps everything on track. Step One: Pre-ApprovalThe first and most important step in your mortgage journey is pre-approval. This is where a lender reviews your income, credit, debt, and assets to determine how much home you can afford. You…
Read More
26 Jun 2025
By Tawnya King

How HomeReady and Home Possible Mortgages Open Doors During National Homeownership Month

Mortgage
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to spotlight the programs that make owning a home more accessible to more people. While many potential buyers believe they need perfect credit or a large down payment, programs like HomeReady® and Home Possible® prove otherwise. As a mortgage originator, I see firsthand how these affordable loan options can turn homeownership from a dream into a reality. Understanding HomeReady and Home PossibleHomeReady® is offered by Fannie Mae and is designed for low-to-moderate-income borrowers. Home Possible®, offered through Freddie Mac, serves a similar purpose. These programs are especially powerful for first-time buyers, younger households,…
Read More