Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House in 2025?
Let’s get this out of the way: there’s no perfect time to buy a house. There’s just the right time for you. That said, it helps to understand the 2025 housing market—especially if you’re in SWLA—before you make any big decisions. Let’s break it down.
What Does a Mortgage Broker Actually Do—and Do I Need One?
Mortgages are fun said no one ever. Between confusing terms, inconsistent advice, and enough paperwork to choke a printer, most people would rather schedule a root canal than shop for a home loan. That’s where mortgage brokers come in.
3 Types of Clients Most Lenders Turn Away
You’d think lenders would be thrilled to hand out money to anyone with a pulse and a dream. Spoiler: They’re not. Behind all the "we're here to help you" slogans is a hard truth—lenders have a very specific idea of who they want to lend to. If you don't fit the mold, many of them will happily (and quietly) move you to the “No Thanks” pile. Here are three types of clients most lenders turn away—and what you can do about it.
Closing Costs Explained (Yes, You Still Have to Pay Them)
Closing costs are the fees and expenses you pay to finalize your mortgage. They’re due at (surprise) closing. These are separate from your down payment, and they typically run between 2% to 5% of your home’s purchase price.
Common Mortgage Myths Debunked: What First-Time Buyers Need to Know
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, chances are you’ve heard all kinds of advice—some good, some… not so much. Mortgage myths are everywhere, and believing the wrong ones can slow you down or even keep you from buying a home. Let’s set the record straight and clear up some of the biggest misconceptions so you can move forward with confidence
DSCR Loans 101: The Investor’s Guide to Cash Flow-Based Lending
If you’re a rental property investor and you’ve ever tried to qualify for a traditional mortgage, you know the drill: W-2s, tax returns, pay stubs, letters from your accountant, your third-grade report card... basically everything except your property's actual ability to generate income. Enter DSCR loans.
Timing the Market vs. Time In the Market: When Should You Buy a Home?
There’s a persistent fantasy out there that if you wait long enough, the market will hit a magical low point where home prices drop, interest rates tank, and unicorns prance across your front lawn. It’s called timing the market, and it sounds great in theory. In reality? It's about as predictable as your neighbor's Wi-Fi name changing weekly. Let’s break down the myth of perfect timing and talk about when buying a home actually makes sense—for you.
Loan Options 101: Comparing Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA Loans
If you’re in the market for a home loan, you’ve probably realized that mortgage options are a lot like coffee orders—overwhelming, filled with jargon, and somehow everyone has a strong opinion. But don’t worry, I’ll keep this simple. Here’s a breakdown of four major loan types: Conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA—so you can pick the one that actually makes sense for you.
How Much Home Can You Afford: A No-Nonsense Guide for Homebuyers
You’ve binge-watched enough HGTV to know you want a house. Now the big question: how much house can you actually afford? Because despite what social media makes it seem, buying a home isn’t as simple as “manifesting” it into existence.