06 Nov 2025
By Mark Feder

What to Expect at Your First Mortgage Appointment

Mortgage Tips
Meeting with a lender for the first time is a big step in your homebuying journey. Whether you are buying your first home or upgrading to your next one, your mortgage appointment sets the stage for what comes next. Knowing what to expect helps you feel confident, prepared, and ready to make the most of that important conversation. Gathering Your Financial Information Before your appointment, your lender will want to review your financial details. This includes your recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns, bank statements, and records of any debts or assets. Having these documents ready helps your lender…
Read More
29 Oct 2025
By Mark Feder

Should You Wait to Buy a Home Until Rates Drop?

Home Buying Tips
A Common Question for Today's MarketMany buyers are wondering if now is the right time to purchase a home or if they should wait for mortgage rates to fall. It is a fair question, especially when rates fluctuate and the headlines make it seem like waiting could save thousands. Understanding what affects rates, prices, and long-term value can help you make a confident decision that fits your financial goals. Rates May Drop, but Prices May RiseIt is true that mortgage rates could decrease in the future, but lower rates often bring more buyers into the market. That increased demand tends…
Read More
03 Sep 2025
By Mark Feder

Mortgages for Newlyweds, Combining Finances and Buying Your First Home

Mortgage Tips
Starting your life together as a married couple is an exciting season filled with new milestones. One of the biggest decisions many newlyweds face is whether to buy a home together. While combining households and finances can feel overwhelming, taking time to understand how mortgages work and planning together can set you up for long-term success. Understanding Your Finances as a Team Before starting the home search, it is important to sit down together and look at the full picture of your finances. This means reviewing income, savings, credit scores, outstanding debts, and long-term goals. Many couples discover they have…
Read More
28 Aug 2025
By Mark Feder

How Emotions Shape Your Mortgage Decisions

Mortgage Tips
When it comes to money, emotions play a big role. Many home buyers get caught up in excitement, fear of missing out, or the desire to impress others. These feelings can influence mortgage choices, leading to decisions that might not align with long-term financial goals. Recognizing emotional triggers is the first step to making smarter choices. The Impact of Excitement on Homebuying: Falling in love with a property can make buyers overlook important details. A high-interest rate or a larger mortgage than you can comfortably afford may seem acceptable when the home feels perfect. Excitement can push buyers to act…
Read More