I decided to take my own advice that I’ve been dishing out about credit cards and debts. Today I reviewed my credit card accounts to see what my current interest rates are. I’m pretty lucky to have great credit and that I’m able to pay off my debts monthly. [Read more…]
Refinancing isn’t just about lowering your rate — it’s about improving your overall financial strategy.
In this section, you’ll find educational resources explaining when refinancing makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to evaluate your break-even point. Whether you’re considering a rate-and-term refinance, cash-out refinance, HELOC, renovation mortgage, or reverse mortgage, understanding the numbers and long-term impact is critical.
Topics covered include:
- “Should I refinance?” scenarios
- Cash-out strategies for remodeling or debt consolidation
- Home equity planning
- Recasting and re-amortization
- Renovation loans and ADU financing
- Refinancing with a second mortgage
My approach is always low-pressure and analytical — we look at the math, your goals, and your timeline before making any decisions.
If you’re a homeowner in Washington State wondering whether refinancing could improve your situation, start here.
Holy cats! My credit card interest rates!
July 15, 2022 by Leave a Comment
When should you refi a low FHA mortgage rate?
March 14, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Many homeowners are hanging onto very low mortgage rates when they should perhaps consider refinancing the mortgage for a higher rate. What??? [Read more…]
Cash Out Refinances for Student Loans
April 26, 2017 by Leave a Comment
Fannie Mae has revamped some guidelines regarding student loans and how they are treated in debt to income ratios for qualifying for a mortgage. This is great news… however what’s even better news for home owners who have student loans, Fannie Mae is offering improved pricing on cash out refinances for paying off student loans! [Read more…]
Appraisals waived for some refinances!
December 5, 2016 by 2 Comments
Please visit our updated Refinance Guide for Homes in Washington.
In order to be eligible for to have an appraisal waived, Fannie Mae’s automated underwriting system, Desktop Underwriter (specifically version DU 10) must determine the property qualifies. This process takes place once the lender has an application and has ran it through Desktop Underwriter.
Refinance transactions that are eligible to have an appraisal waived include: [Read more…]
Steps in the Mortgage Process when you are Refinancing a Home (Updated for 2026)
November 10, 2015 by 19 Comments
Steps in the Mortgage Process When You Are Refinancing a Home (Updated for 2026)
Refinancing your home mortgage can be a powerful financial move — whether your goal is a lower interest rate, shorter loan term, cash-out for home improvements, or debt consolidation. In today’s market, many homeowners are refinancing to lock in savings or access equity they built over years of ownership.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to the refinance process, what to expect, and how to prepare for a smooth experience. [Read more…]
Where do I start with an FHA 203k Rehab loan?
August 7, 2014 by Leave a Comment
A Step-by-Step Guide for Washington Homebuyers (Updated for 2026)
If you’ve found a home that needs work — outdated kitchen, worn roof, cosmetic issues, or more significant repairs — you may be wondering:
“Can I finance the purchase and the renovation together?”
In many cases, the answer is yes — through an FHA 203(k) rehabilitation loan, a program insured by the Federal Housing Administration.
An FHA 203(k) loan allows you to purchase (or refinance) a home and finance eligible repairs into one mortgage.
But where do you actually start?
Here’s a clear, practical breakdown. [Read more…]
Is it time to refi your FHA mortgage?
June 25, 2014 by 3 Comments
With the appreciation homes are seeing in the greater Seattle – King County area, home owners who purchased their home a couple years ago using an FHA mortgage may now be able to refinance into a conventional mortgage. FHA mortgages are often used when a home buyer needs a lower down payment option or if credit scores are lower. FHA jumbo mortgages offer home buyers lower down payment with higher loan amounts than what conforming mortgages will permit. There are many reasons why someone might opt for an FHA mortgage when buying a home.
The Family Opportunity Mortgage Refinance
August 14, 2012 by 17 Comments
Cheerful woman with family standing in back yard
I’ve written about the Family Opportunity Mortgage for purchases where certain circumstances allow one to obtain a mortgage for a family member who is either a student in college, a disabled adult child or an elderly parent. The Family Opportunity Mortgages allows financing to be treated as a primary residence instead of an investment property as long as the scenario meets certain guidelines. The Family Opportunity Mortgage is a Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac program that is also available for refi’s! [Read more…]
