The History of US Interest RatesInterest rates have started to climb and with each 25 basis point increase, affordability for home owners will be impacted. Everyone is...
Pre-qualified vs Pre-approvedIf you need a loan to buy a home, your first order of business is to sit down with a lender and find out how much you can afford....
Why Own Your Own Home?For many of us, owning our home is the "American Dream", a goal we set when we are young, and a place to put our money for long term...
Don't Forget to Budget for Expenses After You Close on Your New House! Hooray! You've decided to buy a home, you've sat down with your loan officer and you are ready to close on the American Dream! Your...
Top Obstacles to Owning a HomeIn conversations with young people, the idea of buying a home seems like a pipe dream and many give up on the idea and just focus on...
A Periodic Check of Your Credit Report is a MUST!Credit hacks and data breaches are becoming more regular these days, so checking your credit periodically is important. Equifax, Experian...
Some Good Reminders About Wire FraudHere are some great reminders about wire fraud from my partners at Old Republic Title. We always advise that when you receive an email,...
California tops the list for highest leverage ratios!We all know that buying a home in many areas of California can be a challenge. The Monterey Peninsula is no exception and this summer's...
California Wildfires - Insurance & LoansIt's been a devastating week for California as wildfires burn throughout the state. Lightning storms and in one case arson sparked some...
Jumbo Loan Requirements Are Getting Stricter!The Pandemic has triggered tighter requirements and it's making it more difficult for some borrowers to qualify for jumbo loans. These...
Tips to Help Keep Your Credit In The Green When Applying for a LoanBuying a house and getting a loan can be complicated so it's important be prepared. Here are some tips to help you protect your credit...
APR's Show Substantial Declines over April 2019!Interest rates continue to remain at historic lows but some metro areas are seeing larger declines than others in their APR's....
Fannie & Freddie Allow Payment Deferral Post-ForbearanceYesterday, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced that homeowners in forbearance could request payment deferrals and add any missed...
Finding Alternatives to Manage Appraisals During COVID-19During the Shelter in Place order in Monterey County, any house that is not completely vacant, including no furniture, can not be...
What's the Difference Between Forbearance and Deferment?Many people who are concerned about making their mortgage payments during the COVID-19 crisis were relieved to hear that their lender...
Beware of COVID-19 Mortgage Scammers!Unfortunately, in times of crisis, there are still those who look for ways to take advantage of others. Freddie Mac warned this week that...
Mortgage Relief to California Families During the COVID-19 CrisisGood News! Governor Gavin Newsom announced that financial institutions will provide major financial relief for millions of Californians...
The Coronavirus & Mortgage RatesAs we have seen over the last couple of weeks, the Coronavirus is shaking financial markets and it’s hard to know when things will start...
What are all these fees?Closing costs can run from 2-5% of the purchase price of your home. Wondering what they are? Here's a quick summary: Origination Fees: A...
The Difference Between A Down Payment and an Earnest Money DepositIf you are a first time home buyer or it's been a while since you bought a home, here is some information that might help: How Much...