What Exactly Goes Into a Mortgage Payment? Principal, Interest, Taxes & Insurance Explained
You’ve probably heard the term mortgage payment thrown around in every homebuying conversation. But what exactly makes up that monthly amount? Is it just paying down the house… or are there hidden costs baked in? If you’re like most buyers, seeing the full breakdown of a mortgage payment helps you understand where your money goes—and…
Read MoreConventional Loans vs. Government-Backed Loans: Key Differences
When it comes to buying a home or refinancing, choosing the right loan type is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. But with all the options out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed especially when you hear terms like: “Conventional loan”“FHA loan”“VA loan”“Government-backed mortgage” So what does it all mean and how do you…
Read MoreHelping Clients Navigate Probate Challenges: A Real Success Story
When a client inherited $4 million in real estate from her late mother, she faced an unexpected and urgent challenge. The properties had not been placed in a will or trust, which meant they entered probate—a process that can take months or even years in Los Angeles County. To complicate matters, she discovered her mother…
Read MoreFinancing a Fire-Damaged Property: Creative Solutions for Unique Opportunities
A recent client came to me after purchasing a fire-damaged property in Pasadena. The home had suffered an electrical fire in the kitchen, resulting in over $100,000 in damage. Due to the extent of the damage, traditional lenders weren’t willing to finance the purchase. With my help, we secured a private money loan that covered…
Read MoreSelf-Employed and Drowning in Debt? Here’s How We Helped One Client Save Over $4,000 a Month
Being self-employed comes with freedom and flexibility—but when it comes to qualifying for a mortgage or managing debt, it can feel like the system is working against you. That was the case for one of our clients, a successful business owner carrying over $150,000 in credit card debt. Despite having significant equity in his home,…
Read MoreYou Can’t Get a Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed” – Proving Income Differently
If you’re self-employed and thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably heard this before: “You can’t get a mortgage if you’re self-employed.” Let me be blunt—that’s simply not true. But unfortunately, that myth keeps a lot of business owners, freelancers, and independent contractors stuck renting… or applying at big banks only to get told “no.”…
Read MoreHome Equity Loans vs. HELOCs: Deciding Which Is Right for You
Your home is more than a place to live—it’s also one of your biggest financial assets. If you’ve built up equity, tapping into it can be a smart way to access cash for renovations, debt consolidation, or other big expenses. But here’s where many homeowners get stuck: Should you go with a home equity loan…
Read MoreUsing Seller Credits: Negotiating Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs
Buying a home comes with more than just a down payment. Between closing costs, inspections, and moving expenses, the upfront costs can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time buyers. But here’s a powerful strategy many buyers overlook: seller credits. When used right, seller credits can dramatically reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, giving you more flexibility, more buying…
Read MoreMyths About the 20% Down Requirement: Low and No-Down-Payment Options
You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: “You need 20% down to buy a house.” For many people, that number feels like a wall—too high, too out of reach, and definitely not happening anytime soon. But here’s the truth: that’s not just outdated advice… it’s a flat-out myth. The reality is, there are several low-…
Read MoreHow Reverse Mortgages Affect Heirs and Estate Planning
Reverse mortgages are often marketed as a financial lifeline for older homeowners. But if you’re thinking long-term, about your family, your legacy, and your home, you’re probably wondering: “What happens to the house when I’m gone?” It’s a smart question and one every homeowner (and their heirs) should ask before getting a reverse mortgage. Let’s…
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