25 Feb 2026
By Tawnya King

How Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Work and When They Make Sense

Mortgage
Adjustable-rate mortgages often create hesitation because borrowers focus on the word adjustable. However, these loans can serve a strategic purpose when aligned with specific financial timelines. An adjustable-rate mortgage typically offers a fixed introductory period followed by periodic rate adjustments based on market indexes. Understanding how these loans are structured helps borrowers determine whether the flexibility outweighs potential variability. How the Structure WorksAn adjustable-rate mortgage generally begins with a fixed rate period, often five, seven, or ten years. After this introductory phase, the rate adjusts at scheduled intervals according to a benchmark index plus a margin. Most adjustable loans include…
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20 Feb 2026
By Tawnya King

The Hidden 60 Day Window That Can Change Your Mortgage Outcome

Mortgage
Most borrowers believe mortgage qualification is determined primarily by long term financial history. Credit scores, employment consistency, and income trends absolutely matter. However, there is a shorter window that often carries disproportionate influence. The 60 days before you apply can either strengthen your file or introduce unnecessary friction into the underwriting process. Why Recent Activity Carries Extra WeightUnderwriters are not simply calculating debt to income ratios. They are assessing stability and consistency. Large undocumented deposits, sudden balance reductions, newly opened debt accounts, or unusual spending activity can trigger additional documentation requests. Even well qualified borrowers can face delays when recent…
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18 Feb 2026
By Tawnya King

The Emotional Budget Behind Every Mortgage Decision

Mortgage
When buyers evaluate a mortgage, they focus heavily on qualification numbers. Income, debts, credit scores, and approval amounts dominate the conversation. Pre-approval letters feel like the finish line. But there is another factor that often gets ignored, and it carries just as much weight over time. Emotional affordability. Approval Is Not the Same as ComfortJust because you qualify for a certain payment does not mean you will feel comfortable making it month after month. Lenders calculate risk tolerance using debt to income ratios and underwriting guidelines. Those formulas determine what is technically allowable. You must calculate something different. Lifestyle tolerance.…
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02 Jan 2026
By Tawnya King

Starting the New Year with Smart Home Financing

Mortgage Tips
The New Year is a natural time to pause, reset, and think intentionally about financial goals. For many buyers and homeowners, real estate and home financing are part of that plan. Whether you are considering purchasing a home, refinancing, or simply positioning yourself for future opportunities, starting the year with a clear strategy can make a meaningful difference. Review Your Credit EarlyYour credit profile plays a significant role in determining mortgage options and interest rates. The beginning of the year is an ideal time to review your credit report, address any errors, and pay down high balance accounts. Small improvements…
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19 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

Preparing Your Mortgage for Life on One Income When a Baby Is on the Way

Homeowner Tips
Welcoming a new baby is an exciting milestone, but it often comes with financial changes, especially when a household shifts to one primary income. Managing a mortgage during this transition can feel overwhelming at first, but many families successfully navigate it every day. With thoughtful planning and a few smart adjustments, it is possible to maintain stability while focusing on what matters most. Choose a Payment That Fits One IncomeAffordability becomes even more important when relying on a single paycheck. A mortgage payment should feel manageable on one income, not just under ideal conditions but also if unexpected expenses arise.…
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11 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

Mortgage Planning for Long-Distance Relationships Becoming Local

Mortgage Tips
When two people in a long-distance relationship decide to finally live in the same city, the excitement is huge, and so are the financial decisions that come with it. Moving from long-distance to local often means navigating new jobs, new routines, and possibly a new home purchase. Planning for a mortgage during this transition can feel overwhelming, but with a little preparation, you can make the move smooth, affordable, and aligned with your long-term goals. Understand How Timing Affects Your Mortgage OptionsWhen couples move from long-distance to local, one or both partners may need to change jobs. Lenders like to…
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05 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

You Ask, We Answer: How to Choose Between Expanding Your Current Home and Buying a New One

Mortgage Tips
Does your home feel like it's starting to burst at the seams? Many homeowners across the country can relate to this feeling having bought a home only to run out of space due to a growing family or for other reasons. Let's take a quick look at a few questions that will help you to determine whether buying a new home or expanding your current home is the best choice when you're in need of some extra space. Why Are You in Need of More Space? The first question you'll need to answer is... "why?" Are you running out of…
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