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Helping 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…
Read MoreThe Role of Credit Scores in Mortgage Approval: Tips to Improve Yours
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…
Read MoreWhy Traditional Banks Fail the Self-Employed & What You Can Do Instead
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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