31 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

Comparing Biweekly Payments and Lump Sum Payments to See Which Saves More

Mortgage Tips
Homeowners looking to save on interest or shorten their loan term often explore two popular strategies: biweekly payments and lump sum payments. Both can reduce the total interest paid and help you build equity faster, but they work in different ways. Understanding how each method functions can help you decide which fits your financial goals and lifestyle best. How Biweekly Payments WorkWith a biweekly payment plan, you make half of your monthly mortgage payment every two weeks instead of one full payment each month. Since there are 52 weeks in a year, you end up making 26 half-payments, which equals…
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29 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

Should You Wait to Buy a Home Until Rates Drop?

Home Buying Tips
A Common Question for Today's MarketMany buyers are wondering if now is the right time to purchase a home or if they should wait for mortgage rates to fall. It is a fair question, especially when rates fluctuate and the headlines make it seem like waiting could save thousands. Understanding what affects rates, prices, and long-term value can help you make a confident decision that fits your financial goals. Rates May Drop, but Prices May RiseIt is true that mortgage rates could decrease in the future, but lower rates often bring more buyers into the market. That increased demand tends…
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24 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Lower Payments Without Refinancing

Mortgage Tips
Many homeowners want to reduce their monthly mortgage payments but hesitate to refinance. Refinancing can come with closing costs, new loan terms, and time-consuming paperwork. The good news is that there are several ways to lower your payment without refinancing.  Recast Your MortgageOne option is a mortgage recast. This allows you to make a large lump-sum payment toward your principal balance, which lowers your monthly payments for the remainder of the loan. The benefit is that your interest rate and loan term remain the same, but your payment drops because you owe less overall. Not all lenders offer recasting, but…
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23 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

The Future of Mortgages with Technology Fintech and AI

Mortgage
The mortgage industry is evolving faster than ever. Technology, fintech innovation, and artificial intelligence are transforming how borrowers find, qualify for, and manage their home loans. These advancements are making the mortgage process faster, smarter, and more transparent, creating new opportunities for both lenders and buyers. Speed and Convenience Through TechnologyTechnology has simplified every stage of the homebuying journey. Online applications, digital document uploads, and electronic signatures have replaced much of the traditional paperwork. Borrowers can now apply for pre-approval from their phone or laptop and get real-time updates on their loan status. This digital shift has made the process…
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22 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Buy a Home if You Are Relocating for Work

Mortgage Tips
Starting a new job often means a fresh start in a new city. While relocation can be an exciting opportunity, buying a home while juggling a move can feel like a balancing act. Between learning about a new market, coordinating timing, and managing logistics, the process requires careful planning and trusted guidance. Do Your Homework Before the MoveBefore packing a single box, take time to understand your destination. Research neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle, commute, and budget. Look into school ratings, nearby amenities, and community features that align with your priorities. Online tools and virtual tours can help, but connecting…
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16 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

How Changing Jobs Affects Mortgage Approval

Home Buyer Tips
Switching jobs can be an exciting step in your career, but for homebuyers, it can also raise questions about mortgage approval. Lenders evaluate income stability when considering a mortgage application, and a recent job change can influence how they view your ability to repay the loan. Understanding how a new position impacts your application can help you plan strategically and improve your chances of approval. How Lenders Assess Employment StabilityLenders want to ensure that borrowers have a reliable and consistent source of income. They typically look for at least two years of employment in the same field. Frequent job changes,…
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14 Oct 2025
By Tawnya King

Mortgage Protection and Insurance for Your Home Loan

Mortgage Tips
When buying a home, mortgage insurance can be an important but often misunderstood component of your loan. It is designed to protect lenders from the risk of borrower default, but it can also impact your monthly payments and overall loan cost. Knowing the types of mortgage insurance, when it is required, and how to manage it can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money over the life of your loan. Types of Mortgage InsuranceThere are several types of mortgage insurance that borrowers may encounter. Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is typically required for conventional loans when the down…
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