Saturday Strategy
Mortgage FAQ's, did you knows and much more...
New Build Financing Insights
In the current market, some new build lenders offer substantial credits to lower interest rates. While this may seem appealing, it's crucial to evaluate the long-term implications. We recently reviewed a client's loan estimate with nearly $40,000 in credits to reduce interest rates, but the home's price was only $380,000. Essentially, they were paying almost 10% more for the house upfront. Yikes! Check out this weeks Saturday Strategy Video
Check this out... the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) exists to reflect the true interest rate. In some cases, it can be deceptively high, around 11 to 13%+, due to excessive upfront costs.
Don't rush into decisions. The lowest rate with the wrong strategy can cost you thousands.
Reverse Mortgage Helped a Couple Stay in Their Home for Life
For many retirees, the home is their biggest asset. But when income drops and expenses rise, that same home can feel like a burden instead of a blessing. That was the situation for one retired couple in their 80s. They owned their home outright. No mortgage. But their monthly income was limited to Social Security,…
Inventory Is Making a Comeback in 2026
After a long stretch where buyers were competing for too few homes, inventory has made a comeback over the past year. And depending on where you live, that’s opening up your options in a meaningful way. According to Realtor.com, the number of homes available for sale in January was the highest it’s been since 2020. Here’s why that’s such…
Why Townhomes Are Popular with Today’s First-Time Buyers
Buying your first home can feel frustrating when the numbers don’t line up the way you expected. You may know you’re ready but finding something that fits your life and your budget is the hard part. That’s where townhomes come in. Townhomes are becoming a bigger part of today’s housing supply, and that shift is opening doors for first-time…
Early-Year Momentum Is Quietly Building in the Housing Market
Inside Lending – Week of February 9, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “I didn’t fail the test. I just found 100 ways to do it wrong.”—Benjamin Franklin, American statesman and inventor NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE Housing inventory continues to improve. Weekly Housing Trends report shows active listings remain well above year-ago levels, giving buyers more options…
Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring
If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see: But here’s what most buyers don’t realize. Buying just a few weeks earlier could mean paying less, dealing with less stress, and feeling less rushed. Here are three reasons why…
The Retiree Who Used Mortgage Planning to Boost Income by $1,100 a Month
Most retirees think their mortgage is something they should rush to pay off. This retiree learned a different lesson: the right mortgage plan can actually increase monthly income. The Problem This homeowner was nearing retirement with a large home and a 15-year mortgage.The payment was high, leaving very little room to save, invest, or cover…
It’s Getting More Affordable To Buy a Home
There’s finally a little good news for anyone who’s been priced out or sitting on the sidelines. Buying a home is getting more affordable. Monthly payments have started to come down, and the squeeze buyers have been feeling for the past few years is slowly loosening. Now, that doesn’t mean everyone can suddenly afford a…
Home Insurance Costs Are Rising: What Buyers Should Plan For
Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. And homeowner’s insurance is what protects that investment. Think of it as your safety net. NerdWallet explains it: But that peace of mind does come with a cost, and lately those costs have been rising. Why Home Insurance Premiums Are Going Up There are a…
🛠 Top 4 Myths (and Truths) About Reverse Mortgages
Reverse mortgages often get a bad rap, but most of what people think they know simply isn’t true. Let’s set the record straight with the top myths and facts: ❌ Myth #1: The bank takes your house ✅ Truth: You own your home—your name stays on title. A reverse mortgage is just a loan, structured…
A Calm Start to 2026 May Be the Opportunity Most Buyers Miss
Inside Lending For the week of February 2, 2026 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.”—George Bernard Shaw, Irish playwright and critic NATIONAL MARKET UPDATE The housing market is finding a comfortable early-year pace. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, Existing Home Sales…
P.S. Can I count on you to contact me if you hear that a friend, family or coworker is looking to buy, sell or refinance? Call/Text 480.553.8770 - We'd be honored to help them too!