10 Feb 2026
By Mark Feder

The Hidden Life Moments That Impact Your Mortgage Journey

Homeowner Tips
Buying a home is rarely just about the house. It is about life happening at the same time. Career changes, family growth, health decisions, and financial habits all quietly shape your mortgage experience long before you ever tour a property. Many buyers are surprised to learn that choices made months or even years earlier can influence how smooth or stressful the process feels. Career Shifts Matter More Than You ThinkChanging jobs, becoming self-employed, or moving into commission-based income can alter how lenders view stability. This does not mean you should avoid growth opportunities, but it does mean timing matters. Understanding…
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06 Feb 2026
By Mark Feder

Why a HELOC Works and When It Might Make Sense for Homeowners

Homeowner Tips
For homeowners looking to tap into the equity they have built over time, a Home Equity Line of Credit, also known as a HELOC, can be a flexible financing option. Unlike a traditional mortgage or one time loan, a HELOC gives borrowers access to a revolving line of credit that can be used as needed. Understanding how it works, along with the benefits and risks, can help homeowners decide whether it fits their financial goals. What a HELOC IsA HELOC is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home. Equity is the difference…
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23 Dec 2025
By Mark Feder

How Buy Now Pay Later Debt Can Affect Your Mortgage Application

Mortgage Tips
Buy Now Pay Later services have become a popular way to spread out small purchases, and for many buyers, these plans feel harmless. The payment amounts are usually small, the approval process is quick, and the apps are easy to use. What many future homebuyers do not realize is that Buy Now Pay Later activity can affect a mortgage application in ways that may not be obvious. Understanding how this type of debt shows up in your financial profile can help you prepare before you apply for a mortgage. Understand How Lenders View Buy Now Pay Later AccountsEven though Buy…
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17 Dec 2025
By Mark Feder

Will You Need Private Mortgage Insurance on Your Mortgage Loan?

Home Buyer Tips
When preparing to buy a home, many borrowers focus on the interest rate and monthly payment, but mortgage insurance is another important factor to understand. Private mortgage insurance is often required when a borrower makes a smaller down payment and knowing how it works can help you plan more confidently and avoid surprises during the loan process. What Private Mortgage Insurance IsPrivate mortgage insurance is a type of insurance that protects the lender, not the borrower. It is typically required when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. Because a lower down payment increases lender risk,…
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