Helping Washington State homeowners learn more about their mortgage options.
If you’re planning to buy a home in Washington State, you’re not alone — and you’re probably using a mortgage between $300,000 and $1,000,000.
That loan range now represents the largest share of homebuyers across Washington, from first-time buyers to relocations and move-up homeowners. But where people are buying has shifted significantly in the past few years.
Below are the top Washington cities attracting homebuyers and what mortgage financing typically looks like in each market. [Read more…]
Last week I had fun creating a spoof where I’m consoling a drunk racoon, Rocky. Rocky has the blues because he decided to chase a low rate with an online lender and now his home purchase transaction is on a rocky road. All joking aside, I actually have saved several purchases where clients who first opted for an online lender with a slightly lower rate discovered that the loan officer and their lender could not close their transaction. It’s easy to promise a low mortgage rate but that low rate doesn’t matter at all if your transaction doesn’t close. [Read more…]
Low-Down-Payment Programs, Renovation Loans & Down Payment Assistance Options
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make and protecting that investment with the right homeowner’s insurance (also referred to as hazard insurance) is just as important as finding the right mortgage. Many homebuyers wait until the last minute to shop for coverage, but taking the time to compare policies early in the process can save you money and stress. Here are some tips to help you shop smart for homeowners’ insurance: [Read more…]
Last year, one of my clients was pondering if they should wait for lower rates or if they should buy a home. Buying a home is probably one of the largest purchases a person makes in their lifetime and it’s completely understandable how some people feel overwhelmed with the decision. [Read more…]
Today I met with clients “virtually” via Zoom from the comforts of their home for a mortgage consultation. They’re getting ready to tour homes later today with their real estate agent and wanted to be prepared for what their options are in the event they find their next home. We discussed their preapproval and different strategies for homes they’re considering. [Read more…]
Buying your first home is such an exciting and important time of your life. It’s a big step in creating financial freedom for your future. First homes are often referred to as a “starter home” as people tend to live in the home for a shorter period of time and use the equity they gain from appreciation and paying down the mortgage towards buying their next home. [Read more…]
A few days ago, I was reviewing a homeowner’s Closing Disclosure from their purchase that closed with another lender. This couple had come to me when they were purchasing the home, however the builder was offering extra incentives for buyers for working with the builder’s lender. I was surprised to see that property taxes were very under-estimated.
When someone is buying a home that has recently been built, it’s very likely that the home has not yet been valued by the county’s tax accessor. The only value that has been determined is for the lot. However, once you purchase the home, even though the home has not yet been assessed, you will owe taxes on both the land and the home. The “missing taxes” are called “omit taxes”. [Read more…]
Rhonda Porter is a Licensed Mortgage Originator MLO121324 living in the greater Seattle area. Rhonda began her career in 1986 in the title and escrow industry and began her mortgage career in 2000. She enjoys helping people understand the mortgage process and started writing The Mortgage Porter in late 2006. Read More…
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