16 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

Smart Ways to Protect Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
Your credit score plays a major role in the mortgage process. It helps determine whether you qualify for a loan, how much you can borrow, and the interest rate you may receive. Even small changes to your credit profile can impact your long-term cost of homeownership. The good news is that there are clear steps you can take to protect your score and position yourself for better mortgage options.Pay Every Bill On TimePayment history is one of the most influential factors in your credit score. Late or missed payments can cause immediate damage and may remain on your credit report…
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12 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

What Really Happens If You Miss a Mortgage Payment

Mortgage
Missing a mortgage payment can feel scary, especially when you are working hard to manage your finances and stay on track. Life happens, and sometimes unexpected situations make it difficult to pay on time. The good news is that one missed payment does not mean you will lose your home. Understanding what happens behind the scenes, what lenders look for, and how quickly you should take action can help you stay calm, fix the issue, and protect your credit. Know When a Payment Is Considered LateA mortgage payment is typically due on the first of the month, but most lenders…
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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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10 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

How to Avoid Overpaying for Homeowners Insurance with Your Mortgage

Mortgage Tips
When you buy a home with a mortgage, homeowners’ insurance is not optional, it is required. Lenders need to know the property is protected, and you need the peace of mind that comes with knowing your largest investment is covered. The challenge is that many homebuyers end up paying too much for their policy without even realizing it. With a little preparation, you can avoid overpaying and make sure your insurance matches your true needs rather than one size that fits all approach. Understand Why Lenders Require InsuranceLenders require homeowners’ insurance because the home is the collateral for the loan.…
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04 Dec 2025
By Tawnya King

Understanding Why You Don’t Need to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

Mortgage Tips
Many homeowners feel pressure to pay off their mortgage as quickly as possible but faster is not always better. In many real-life situations, directing your money toward other financial steps can offer more growth, more protection, and more flexibility. Understanding when early payoff is helpful and when it is not can give you greater confidence in your long-term plan. Your Mortgage Rate Matters More Than You ThinkA major factor in this decision is your current mortgage rate. Many homeowners secured low rates in recent years that are far below the interest charged on credit cards and other consumer loans. When…
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26 Nov 2025
By Tawnya King

The Role of Asset Verification in Mortgage Underwriting

Mortgage Tips
When buyers apply for a mortgage, income and credit history get most of the attention. However, there is another essential part of the underwriting process that plays a major part in determining approval. Asset verification helps lenders understand the financial strength behind an application and gives them greater confidence in the borrower's ability to manage the loan responsibly. What Asset Verification MeansAsset verification is the process of reviewing the funds a borrower has available. This includes checking bank accounts, retirement accounts, investment accounts and any other liquid sources. Lenders look for accurate documentation that confirms the money belongs to the…
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25 Nov 2025
By Tawnya King

How Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers Can Help with Mortgage Qualification

Mortgage Tips
Many hopeful homebuyers find that their income alone does not quite meet the requirements for a mortgage. This challenge is especially common for people early in their careers, those recovering from financial setbacks, or buyers facing higher home prices. One option that can make a meaningful difference is bringing in a non-occupant co-borrower. What a Non-Occupant Co-Borrower IsA non-occupant co-borrower is someone who agrees to apply for the mortgage with you but does not plan to live in the property. Their income, credit history and financial stability are reviewed alongside yours. This added support can help strengthen the entire application.…
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