Free Virtual Workshop: How Much Money Do You Need to Buy a Home?

Buying a home takes more than just a down payment — but how much do you really need? In this quick and informative session, you’ll learn exactly what goes into your total “cash to close,” including down payment options, closing costs, and other upfront expenses. [Read more…]

Final Mortgage Rate Update for 2024!

It’s the end of 2024 and I bring to you the last mortgage rate update for this year.

This week’s episode includes an example of my Cost of Waiting report which factors in projected appreciation rates and forecasted mortgage rates. This report uses data to illustrate if it’s worth waiting for lower rates to buy a home. I hope you’ll check it out and let me know if you would like a report based on your criteria.


Of course, I’ll be back next Monday with the first update for 2025!
Happy and Healthy New Year!

Holiday Hangover – Did You Overspend this Season?

Twas the season of spending with American’s splurging over $1100 on gifts this holiday season. Credit card interest rates average around 24% with some department store cards pushing 30%; making it very difficult for some to pay off the debt.

Lendingtree reports that 42% of those who charged holiday gifts regret adding to their debts.

If you’re feeling a bit of a financial hangover from the holidays, you can take some steps to help ease the headache of credit card debts. [Read more…]

Mortgage Market Update for the Week of November 11, 2024

Want to know how mortgage rates are trending following the election or what may impact mortgage rates this week? Check out my latest episode which features our new bridge loan program!

Please contact me if you have any questions or if you’re interested in buying, refinancing or remodeling your home!

True Horror Story: Trapped by the 3% Mortgage Rate

If you’re a homeowner wanting to buy your next home, you might be feeling reluctance to trade your existing interest rate for a current mortgage rate. It’s easy to understand when mortgage rates are double from what they were a few years ago. Historically speaking, mortgage rates are actually closer to what would be considered more of an average range than the Fed manipulated rates of years past.

I may have some good news for you. No, it’s not a trick…this can actually be a treat! [Read more…]

Credit Tips if you are considering Buying a Home (or Refinancing)

Are you considering buying or refinancing your home in Washington? You may be surprised at what you should and shouldn’t do. Some things that are common sense may actually not be the best actions if you’re planning on obtaining a mortgage in the near future.

Essential Credit Tips for Homebuyers

Please check out my latest video with simple credit tips.

Should You Follow Dave Ramsey’s Advice on Mortgages?

Dave Ramsey is someone a lot of people follow for financial advise. Lately he’s been showing up A LOT in my Facebook stream pushing his thoughts on mortgages, home ownership and credit. Some of his ideas, I don’t totally disagree with. In fact, I shared a post that came from his group encouraging people to continue to pay rent and make their mortgage payments during the pandemic if at all possible (ie nothing is for free). However, I don’t support what he instructs his followers who are considering buying a home and I also have an issue with anyone who pushes their “team of vetted real estate agents”…I would be really surprised if there is not some sort of financial relationship associated with this referral arrangement.

Let’s take a look at what he encourages his followers to do with regards to buying a home or getting a mortgage. [Read more…]

What Sales Price do you qualify for with $100,000 for Down Payment and Closing Costs in Seattle?

buying a home in redmondUPDATE: Please visit our Conforming Mortgage Guide which includes current loan limits for homes in Seattle and Washington state.

If you have $100,000 available for funds for closing, you may be surprised to learn that, assuming you have the income and credit to qualify, you can buy a home with a sales price of around $800,000.

Here’s one example of how you can buy a “jumbo” priced home with less than 20% down payment.

[Read more…]