Row of beige and cream single family homes

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…

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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…

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Happy couple on floor with moving boxes all around

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 But here’s the truth: that’s not just outdated advice… it’s a flat-out myth.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-…

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Grandparents on floor taking selfie with grandchild

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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smaller single family home exterior

While they may sound similar and happen around the same time, they serve two very different purposes. One protects your wallet, the other protects your well-being. Skip either, and you could be walking into a financial or physical mess. Let’s break down what each one does, why they matter, and how to make sure you’re…

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Professional and client reviewing document

Your credit score can open doors, or slam them shut. But when it comes to buying a home, too many people assume one bad score means game over. That’s not always the case. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, self-employed, or looking to refinance, your credit score is just one piece of the puzzle. And if…

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Family of 4 opening boxes

You’re self-employed, your business is thriving, and you’re ready to buy a home.Then a bank tells you: “Sorry, you don’t qualify.” Wait—what? If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Self-employed buyers face more hurdles than they should, not because they can’t afford a home—but because traditional lenders are stuck using outdated approval systems that don’t…

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Family of 4 smiling on floor of new home with moving boxes

Despite being one of the best mortgage options available, VA loans are often overlooked—especially in high-cost areas like Los Angeles. Why? Because myths, outdated information, and misconceptions continue to scare off buyers who could be taking full advantage of this powerful benefit. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned vet, it’s time to clear…

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Seemingly overnight, there is widespread media attention on the spread between mortgage rates and the 10yr Treasury yield. There shouldn’t be. Why are we talking about the 10yr Treasury yield if we’re focused on mortgages and housing?  Simply put, the 10yr Treasury note is the most dominant benchmark (touchstone, bellwether, yard stick, etc) for all…

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