17 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

How Borrowers Can Benefit from Inflation with the Right Mortgage

Mortgage
Inflation is a topic that impacts nearly every part of the economy, from the cost of groceries to long term financial planning. For homeowners and those considering a mortgage, inflation can feel intimidating. However, with the right perspective and strategies, borrowers can use inflation to their advantage and create lasting financial benefits. Understanding the Relationship Between Mortgages and Inflation Inflation reduces the purchasing power of money over time. While this can make everyday expenses higher, it also works in favor of borrowers with fixed rate mortgages. Since the mortgage payment stays the same each month, the real value of that…
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16 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

How Parenthood Changes Mortgage Needs and Housing Priorities

Mortgage Tips
Becoming a parent is one of life’s most exciting milestones. Along with the joy and responsibility of raising children, many families find that their housing needs and mortgage priorities change dramatically once little ones arrive. What may have worked for a single person or a couple often needs to be reevaluated when planning for the comfort, safety, and growth of a family. Space Becomes Essential One of the first priorities for parents is space. Families often seek larger homes with additional bedrooms and bathrooms to ensure that children have their own space and parents have room for future growth. An…
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12 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Strategies to Save on Your Mortgage in a Rising Rate Environment

Mortgage Tips
When interest rates climb, homeowners and buyers alike often feel pressure on their monthly budgets. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help you save money and manage your mortgage more effectively even in a rising rate environment. By making thoughtful adjustments and using available tools, you can still work toward long term financial security. Make Extra Payments Toward PrincipalOne of the simplest ways to reduce the total cost of your mortgage is by making extra payments directly toward your principal balance. Even adding a small amount each month, or making one additional full payment per year, can cut your loan…
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10 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Understanding the Temporary Rate Reduction Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Buying a home is exciting, but the thought of monthly mortgage payments can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. One strategy to ease the financial burden is a temporary rate reduction. This type of mortgage allows borrowers to pay a lower interest rate for the first two years of the loan before it returns to the original fixed rate. How a Temporary Rate Reduction WorksIn a temporary rate reduction, the interest rate is lowered in stages during the first two years. In the first year, the borrower pays a rate typically two percentage points below the note rate. In the…
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09 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Why Credit Monitoring Matters During the Mortgage Process

Mortgage Tips
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. While it is exciting to pick out your dream home, the mortgage process can be complex and stressful. One critical factor that can make or break your journey is your credit. Credit monitoring gives you the insight and control you need to stay on track. Know Your CreditCredit monitoring keeps you updated on changes to your credit report and score. Lenders rely heavily on your credit profile to determine eligibility, interest rates, and loan terms. Even small changes, such as a new debt or late payment,…
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05 Sep 2025
By Tawnya King

Mortgages in a Rising Rate Environment: Strategies to Save

Mortgage Tips
Understanding the Impact of Rising Rates Mortgage rates play a major role in how much house you can afford. Even a small increase can raise monthly payments and affect how much you qualify for. For example, the same loan amount at a higher rate could cost hundreds of dollars more each month. This is why buyers often feel pressure to act quickly when rates begin to climb. However, it is important to remember that interest rates are only one piece of the puzzle. Homeownership provides long-term value, stability, and the opportunity to build equity. Instead of focusing only on the…
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22 Aug 2025
By Tawnya King

Can You Use Rental Income to Qualify for a Mortgage?

Mortgage Tips
When it comes to qualifying for a mortgage, your income plays a key role in determining how much you can borrow. For many buyers, especially those interested in investment properties or who plan to rent out part of their home, the question is whether rental income can be counted toward their mortgage qualification. The good news is that in many cases, rental income can help, but there are specific rules and documentation requirements you will need to meet. Understanding How Lenders View Rental IncomeLenders want to ensure that any rental income you list is reliable and can be used to…
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