June is National Homeownership Month and there is no better time to look at the long-term financial benefits of owning a home compared to renting. As a mortgage professional, I often speak with clients who are unsure whether to keep renting or make the leap into homeownership. The decision can feel overwhelming, but when you break down the numbers and look at the bigger picture, the advantages of buying a home are clear.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 23rd, 2025
With the passing of the FOMC rate decision, it has become clear that the Federal Reserve is taking a wait-and-see approach to the current situation regarding tariff policies. Although the vast majority of economists around the world have made predictions about what lies ahead, the effects have not yet been pronounced. Many of the recent tariff changes have also been revoked or put on pause for the largest industries, leaving many markets uncertain about the future. The key takeaway is that conditions will likely remain steady for now. The only other data release offering insight into what's to come is the notable decline in U.S. retail sales, reflecting a reduction in consumer activity.
The Top 5 Mortgage Myths Debunked for National Homeownership Month
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to shine a spotlight on the opportunities and advantages of owning a home. It is also the perfect moment to clear up some of the most common myths that hold people back from pursuing a mortgage. Many potential buyers delay their homeownership dreams because of outdated beliefs or misinformation. Let's break down the top five myths and explain what is really true in today's mortgage world.
How to Build Credit For a Mortgage Starting This National Homeownership Month
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and offer guidance to those preparing to take that important step. One of the most impactful things you can do right now is to begin building or improving your credit. If you plan to purchase a home in the next 6 to 12 months, the work you do today could make a major difference in the loan terms you receive later.
Celebrating National Homeownership Month and How First-Time Buyer Programs Make It Possible
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate the dream of owning a home and spotlight the many programs designed to help first-time buyers turn that dream into reality. For many Americans, the biggest challenge to buying a home is coming up with the funds for a down payment or qualifying for a loan. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of mortgage options and assistance programs available to make homeownership more achievable.
The Emotional Rewards of Homeownership and Why It’s Worth Celebrating in June
June is National Homeownership Month, a time not only to talk about the practical steps toward owning a home but also to reflect on the emotional rewards that make the journey worth it. As a mortgage professional, I spend a lot of time working with numbers such as credit scores, down payments, and interest rates. But the most powerful part of homeownership is what cannot be measured with a calculator.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – June 16th, 2025
The CPI and PPI have yet to reveal the impacts of the tariff policies that were placed temporarily, which gives some potential insight that there might be a path forward for the Federal Reserve to look at potential rate cuts. However, economists across many industries are expecting inflation to increase temporarily as an impact for the policies that were put in place.
Creative Strategies for Saving on Closing Costs
When you are budgeting for a new home, it's easy to focus on the down payment, but do not forget the closing costs. These fees typically range from 2% to 5% of the home's purchase price and cover things like the appraisal, title search, loan origination, and other administrative expenses. For many buyers, especially first-timers, they can feel like an unwelcome surprise.
The good news? There are creative, effective ways to reduce these expenses and make homeownership more affordable.
How to Leverage Home Equity for Financial Freedom
If you've owned your home for a few years, chances are you have built up equity, maybe more than you realize. But what exactly is home equity, and how can you use it to build wealth, reduce debt, or increase financial flexibility?
We will discuss how homeowners are turning their built-up equity into tools for financial freedom, and how you can, too.
Are Interest-Only Mortgages A Smart Strategy or Risky Business?
When exploring home financing options, many borrowers are intrigued by interest-only mortgages. These loans offer the benefit of lower initial monthly payments, which can seem attractive, especially in high-cost areas or when cash flow is tight. But how exactly do they work, and are they the right fit for your financial goals?
