Mortgage rates are slightly improved compared to last’s update. Learn what may impact mortgages, recent improvements to low down conventional mortgage programs and a reminder for our upcoming homebuyer workshop in this week’s episode of The Mortgage Porter.
Debt-to-Income Ratio: How It Works for Washington Home Buyers
April 19, 2026 by Leave a Comment
When a lender looks at your mortgage application, one of the first numbers they calculate is your debt-to-income ratio — or DTI. It’s one of the most important factors in determining how much home you can afford and whether you’ll qualify for a mortgage in Washington State.
Here’s what DTI means, how lenders use it, and what you can do if yours needs work. [Read more…]
What You Should Know Before Co-Signing a Mortgage or Large Loan
April 17, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Someone you care about — a child, sibling, parent, or close friend — needs help qualifying for a mortgage or large loan. They’ve asked you to co-sign. You want to help, so you say yes.
Before you do, make sure you understand exactly what you’re agreeing to. Co-signing is not a formality. It’s a full financial commitment, and it can have real consequences for your credit, your finances, and your own ability to buy or refinance a home.
Here’s what every co-signer — and every borrower asking for one — should know. [Read more…]
Buying a Home for Your College Student (Kiddie Condo) in Washington State
April 16, 2026 by Leave a Comment
It’s a scenario that comes up more often than you’d think: parents want to buy a condo or home near their child’s college — somewhere the student can live instead of paying dorm or apartment rent, and that the family might hold onto as an investment afterward.
It’s a smart idea in the right market. But the financing can be trickier than it looks, because how the property is classified — owner-occupied, second home, or investment property — has a significant impact on your rate, down payment, and loan options.
Here’s how it works under current guidelines. [Read more…]
How Much Should You Put Down on a Home in Washington State?
April 15, 2026 by Leave a Comment
One of the most common questions I get from home buyers in Washington State is: how much should I put down? The short answer is: it depends. But the longer answer is actually pretty interesting — and knowing the tradeoffs can save you real money.
Let’s walk through how your down payment affects your loan, your rate, and your monthly payment. [Read more…]
