Home Loans Archives - Tawnya King

20 May 2026

Understanding PMI and Why It May Benefit You

Mortgage

Private Mortgage Insurance, commonly known as PMI, is often misunderstood by homebuyers. Many people view it as an added expense to avoid at all costs, but that perspective can actually delay homeownership and limit your options. When used strategically, PMI can be a valuable tool that helps you purchase a home sooner and begin building equity earlier. What PMI Is and How It WorksPMI is a type of insurance that protects the lender in the event a borrower defaults on a loan. It is typically required when a buyer puts down less than 20% on a home. While it does…

15 May 2026

By Tawnya King

Common Mortgage Mistakes to Avoid Before Closing on Your Home

Mortgage Tips

The mortgage process does not end once you are pre-approved or even after your offer is accepted. The period leading up to closing is just as important, and mistakes during this time can delay or even jeopardize your loan. Understanding what to avoid helps ensure a smooth path to closing and keeps your home purchase on track. Avoid Taking on New DebtOne of the most common mistakes buyers make is taking on new debt before closing. Financing a vehicle, opening new credit accounts, or making large purchases can impact your debt-to-income ratio and your credit score. Lenders may recheck your…

14 May 2026

By Tawnya King

What to Expect During the Mortgage Approval Process

Mortgage Tips

Getting pre-approved is an important step in the homebuying journey, but it is only the beginning of the mortgage process. Many buyers are surprised by what happens next and are not fully prepared for the steps involved in final approval. Understanding what to expect can help you stay on track and avoid delays that could impact your ability to close on your home. Pre-Approved Versus Fully ApprovedA pre-approved mortgage gives you an estimate of what you can borrow based on your initial financial information. However, full approval happens later in the process after a deeper review. Lenders will verify your…

12 May 2026

By Tawnya King

Local Lender or Online Option? Understanding the Trade-Offs

Mortgage Tips

Choosing the right lender is a critical part of the homebuying process, and many buyers find themselves deciding between a local lender and an online option. While both can provide financing, the experience, level of service, and overall support can vary significantly. Understanding the tradeoffs allows you to choose the option that best fits your needs and helps ensure a smoother transaction from start to finish. The Value of Working with a Local LenderLocal leaders often provide a more personalized and hands-on experience. You typically have direct access to a loan officer who understands your situation and can guide you…

30 Jan 2026

By Tawnya King

Tips to Remember When Shopping for a New Home Loan

Home Financing Tips

Finding a new home loan can seem challenging, but if you take the proper steps before you start applying for loans, you'll have no difficulty finding a mortgage that works for you and a lender that would love to have you as a borrower. Shopping for a mortgage isn't like shopping for a couch, and there's a lot that goes into the process.So how can you shop for your new home loan in a way that saves you time and gets you the best loan for your needs? Here's what you need to know.Research Loan TypesA lot of home buyers,…

11 Sep 2025

By Tawnya King

5 Key Steps in the Mortgage Underwriting Process

Mortgage

Buying a home can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Understanding the mortgage underwriting process can make things a lot smoother! What is Underwriting?Underwriting is when lenders review your financial information to determine if you qualify for a mortgage. They check your income, assets, credit history, and the property itself to assess risk. The 5 Key Steps Submit Your ApplicationPre-approval starts here! This tells you and your lender how much you can afford and saves time while looking for a home. Verify Income and AssetsProvide documents like pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and ID. Lenders check your…

15 Aug 2025

By Tawnya King

The Pros and Cons of Mortgage Assumptions

Mortgage Tips

When purchasing a home, buyers typically assume a new mortgage loan. However, in some situations, a buyer may opt to assume the seller's existing mortgage. Known as a mortgage assumption, this process allows the buyer to take over the terms and payments of the seller's current loan. While mortgage assumptions can offer benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of mortgage assumptions can help you determine whether this option is right for you. What is a Mortgage Assumption?A mortgage assumption occurs when a buyer takes over the seller's existing mortgage, including the remaining balance, interest…