Addressing Inequity in LendingThe mortgage approval process is a critical step in the path to homeownership. While lending guidelines are designed to promote fair and consistent evaluation, studies have shown that disparities persist based on gender and race. These differences raise important concerns about equal access to credit and the long-term effects on wealth building, community development, and financial equity in the United States. Understanding the Approval ProcessMortgage approval … [Read more...]
From Pre-Approval to Closing What to Expect in the Mortgage Journey
June is National Homeownership Month, making it the perfect time to understand the full path to homeownership. If you are planning to buy a home, especially for the first time, knowing what to expect during the mortgage process can take away much of the stress. This guide walks you through each step and highlights how working with the right mortgage professional keeps everything on track. Step One: Pre-ApprovalThe first and most important step in your mortgage journey is pre-approval. This is … [Read more...]
How HomeReady and Home Possible Mortgages Open Doors During National Homeownership Month
June is National Homeownership Month, a time to spotlight the programs that make owning a home more accessible to more people. While many potential buyers believe they need perfect credit or a large down payment, programs like HomeReady® and Home Possible® prove otherwise. As a mortgage originator, I see firsthand how these affordable loan options can turn homeownership from a dream into a reality. Understanding HomeReady and Home PossibleHomeReady® is offered by Fannie Mae and is … [Read more...]
How Property Taxes Impact Your Mortgage Payment
When buying a home, most people focus on the home price, interest rate, and monthly payment. But there's another major factor that can significantly affect your mortgage: property taxes. These taxes can make your mortgage payment higher than expected and understanding how they work is key to managing your budget effectively. Below, I will break down how property taxes influence your mortgage and what you can do to plan ahead. What Are Property Taxes?Property taxes are local taxes assessed on … [Read more...]
