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The Mortgage Options That Make It Possible to Buy a Fixer-Upper

August 19, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

Buying a fixer-upper can be an exciting way to get into a desirable neighborhood at a lower price point, while also creating a home that reflects your style and needs. However, financing a property that needs significant repairs can be challenging if you are only looking at traditional mortgage products. The good news is there are several mortgage options designed specifically for buyers who are ready to take on a renovation project. Understanding these options can help you choose the right path to turn a home with potential into your dream property.

FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan
The FHA 203(k) loan is a popular choice for buyers who want to purchase a fixer-upper and finance both the purchase price and the renovation costs in a single mortgage. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, this program has more flexible credit requirements than many conventional loans. There are two types of 203(k) loans: the Limited 203(k) for smaller projects such as replacing flooring or appliances, and the Standard 203(k) for major renovations like structural repairs or room additions.

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan
The Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation loan allows you to borrow based on the  as-completed  value of the home, which is the estimated value after the renovations are finished. This loan can be used for a wide range of improvements, including luxury upgrades that FHA loans do not typically cover. Since it is a conventional loan, you may need a higher credit score than with FHA, but it offers competitive interest rates and can be used for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Loan
The Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation loan is another conventional option that can be used for repairs, upgrades, or even renovations to help a property withstand natural disasters. Like the HomeStyle loan, it is based on the post-renovation value of the property. It can also be paired with certain affordable lending programs to make the upfront costs more manageable.

VA Renovation Loan
For eligible veterans, service members, and certain surviving spouses, the VA Renovation Loan provides an opportunity to finance both the home purchase and repairs under the benefits of the VA loan program. This means no down payment in most cases and favorable terms. However, not all lenders offer this product, and the renovation work must be completed by VA-approved contractors.

Why Renovation Loans Make Sense
Renovation loans not only make it possible to buy a home that might otherwise be out of reach, they also give you the flexibility to create a space tailored to your vision. By rolling the cost of improvements into your mortgage, you avoid the need for multiple loans or high-interest credit cards to pay for repairs. In addition, the value of the home often increases after renovations are completed, which can improve your equity position more quickly.

If you have found a home with good bones and the right location but it needs some work, one of these renovation loan options could help you transform it into the home you have always wanted. The key is to work with a mortgage professional who understands the specific requirements of each program and can guide you toward the option that best fits your needs and budget.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Fixer-Upper, Mortgage Options, Renovation Loans

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 18th, 2025

August 18, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

This will be the first release of the CPI and PPI report data wherein the data collected and used to determine the current inflation has been reduced. The Producer Price Index has shown quite clearly that there has been the biggest whole price jump in the last 3 years, showing that the administration’s policies on tariffs are having an impact. The CPI has shown a similar increase in inflation, but still within expectations in lieu of the current tariff policies. 

There is still data to be collected, with some speculation that the Federal Reserve may implement rate cuts in the future. Consumer sentiment has also shown increased concern regarding inflation and unemployment statistics, as trends have worsened following the tariff changes, leading to a three-month low in consumer sentiment.

Consumer Price Index
A key measure of consumer prices posted the biggest increase in July in six months, suggesting inflation is showing upward pressure from tariffs but maybe not enough to deter the Federal Reserve from cutting interest rates soon. The so-called core rate of the consumer price index rose 0.3% in July to mark the biggest increase since the first month of the year. The core rate omits food and energy and is a better predictor of future inflation.

Producer Price Index
The cost of wholesale goods and services—where rising inflation tends to show up first—posted the biggest increase in July in three years, possibly heralding a sizable acceleration in price hikes tied to U.S. tariffs. The producer-price index jumped 0.9% last month after no change in June, the government said Thursday. The surge was a big surprise to Wall Street.

Consumer Sentiment
Fresh worries about inflation soured Americans on the economy in early August, underscoring lingering anxiety about the highest U.S. tariffs in decades and a further rise in unemployment. The first reading of the consumer-sentiment survey in August dropped to a three-month low of 57.2 from 61.8 in July, the University of Michigan said Friday.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

  • 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.04% with the current rate at 5.71%
  • 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.05% with the current rate at 6.58%

MND Rate Index

  • 30-Yr FHA rates saw an increase of 0.03% this week. Current rates at 6.18%
  • 30-Yr VA rates saw an increase of 0.03% this week. Current rates at 6.19%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 224,000 compared to the expected claims of 229,000. The prior week landed at 226,000.

What’s Ahead
FOMC Minutes will give an indication where the Federal Reserve decides to still hold their “wait-and-see” approach. This will be followed by the PMI Manufacturing and Services data, relevant to the tariff changes.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Financial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

The Pros and Cons of Mortgage Assumptions

August 15, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

When purchasing a home, buyers typically assume a new mortgage loan. However, in some situations, a buyer may opt to assume the seller’s existing mortgage. Known as a mortgage assumption, this process allows the buyer to take over the terms and payments of the seller’s current loan. While mortgage assumptions can offer benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of mortgage assumptions can help you determine whether this option is right for you.

What is a Mortgage Assumption?
A mortgage assumption occurs when a buyer takes over the seller’s existing mortgage, including the remaining balance, interest rate, and loan terms. The buyer essentially steps into the seller’s shoes and assumes responsibility for the loan payments. Not all mortgages are assumable, as many conventional loans include a due-on-sale clause, which requires the full loan balance to be paid upon transfer. However, certain types of loans, such as FHA and VA loans, are often assumable, provided the lender approves the buyer.

Pros of Mortgage Assumptions

  1. Lower Interest Rate
    One of the main advantages of assuming a mortgage is the potential for securing a lower interest rate. If the seller’s mortgage has a lower rate than current market rates, the buyer can benefit from continuing to pay that rate. This can result in significant savings over the life of the loan, especially if the mortgage is relatively large.
  2. Lower Closing Costs
    Mortgage assumptions generally involve lower closing costs compared to obtaining a new loan. Since the buyer is assuming the existing mortgage, there may be less paperwork, fewer fees, and no need for a new appraisal or origination fees. This can make the overall cost of purchasing the home more affordable for the buyer.
  3. Faster Process
    Assuming a mortgage can be a faster process than securing a new loan. Since the terms of the loan are already established, the buyer does not have to go through the time-consuming approval process required for a new mortgage. This can be beneficial for buyers who need to move quickly.
  4. Avoiding Tight Lending Conditions
    In some cases, assuming a mortgage may allow a buyer to avoid strict lending requirements. If the buyer has difficulty qualifying for a traditional loan due to credit issues or income concerns, assuming a mortgage with more lenient requirements may be an attractive option.

Cons of Mortgage Assumptions

  1. Limited Availability
    Not all mortgages are assumable. Conventional loans, which are the most common type of mortgage, typically include a due-on-sale clause, making them non-assumable. Therefore, the buyer will need to look for FHA, VA, or other specific loan types that allow assumptions. This can limit the pool of homes available for purchase via a mortgage assumption.
  2. Seller’s Mortgage Terms May Not Be Ideal
    While assuming a mortgage can allow for a lower interest rate, the terms of the seller’s mortgage may not always be favorable. For example, the remaining balance could be large, or the repayment period may be much shorter than the buyer desires. Additionally, some older mortgages may not offer flexibility in terms of prepayment or refinancing.
  3. Lender Approval Required
    Even if the loan is assumable, the lender must approve the assumption. The buyer will need to meet the lender’s financial qualifications, similar to the approval process for a new loan. This can make the assumption process time-consuming and complicated, as the lender will need to review the buyer s financial situation before agreeing to the assumption.
  4. Remaining Seller Liabilities
    If the buyer assumes the mortgage, the seller may still be liable for any deficiencies or issues related to the loan. This is particularly important if the mortgage is not fully paid off by the end of the assumption process. In some cases, the seller may need to sign documents that protect the buyer from any future liabilities or claims, which can complicate the transaction.

Mortgage assumptions can offer significant advantages, such as lower interest rates and reduced closing costs, making them an appealing option for buyers in certain circumstances. However, the limited availability of assumable mortgages and the potential for less favorable terms should be carefully considered. Buyers should evaluate whether assuming a mortgage aligns with their financial goals and work closely with a lender to ensure the process runs smoothly.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Loans, Mortgage Assumptions, Mortgage Options

The Impact of Bankruptcy on Mortgage Eligibility

August 14, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

Going through bankruptcy can be a challenging and stressful process. However, it s important to understand how bankruptcy may affect your ability to secure a mortgage in the future. Bankruptcy, whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, can significantly impact your credit score and financial history, both of which are critical factors when applying for a mortgage. Despite this, it’s possible to obtain a mortgage after bankruptcy, though the path may be a bit more complicated.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Mortgage Eligibility
Chapter 7 bankruptcy, also known as liquidation bankruptcy, involves the discharge of most unsecured debts. This means that individuals who file for Chapter 7 can have their qualifying debts erased, giving them a fresh financial start. However, filing for Chapter 7 can stay on your credit report for up to 10 years. Mortgage lenders typically look at your credit history to evaluate your ability to repay the loan, and a recent bankruptcy filing can be seen as a red flag.

While it may be difficult to secure a mortgage immediately after a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, it is possible. Most lenders require a waiting period of at least two years after the discharge of the bankruptcy before considering you for a mortgage. During this waiting period, it s crucial to rebuild your credit and demonstrate that you have regained financial stability. Having a stable income, a clean payment history since the bankruptcy, and a reasonable debt-to-income ratio can increase your chances of being approved.

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and Mortgage Eligibility
Chapter 13 bankruptcy, also known as reorganization bankruptcy, allows individuals to create a repayment plan to pay back creditors over a period of three to five years. Since Chapter 13 bankruptcy does not discharge debts like Chapter 7, it is considered less damaging to your credit. However, it still leaves a mark on your credit report, remaining there for up to seven years.

The good news with Chapter 13 is that you may be eligible for a mortgage sooner than with Chapter 7. In some cases, you may be able to apply for a mortgage during the repayment period of your Chapter 13 bankruptcy, as long as you have made at least 12 months of on-time payments under the repayment plan. Lenders will want to see evidence of your ability to manage your finances while in bankruptcy and the likelihood that you will continue to make timely payments. After the completion of your repayment plan, you may be eligible for a mortgage with a shorter waiting period, usually around two years.

How Bankruptcy Affects Your Credit Score
A bankruptcy filing typically results in a significant drop in your credit score. The severity of the drop depends on your credit profile before the bankruptcy and the type of bankruptcy filed. A lower credit score can make it harder to qualify for a mortgage and can also lead to higher interest rates if you are approved. However, over time, your credit score can improve if you take steps to rebuild it. Making timely payments, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding further debt can help boost your score.

Rebuilding After Bankruptcy
Regardless of whether you file Chapter 7 or Chapter 13, taking steps to rebuild your credit is crucial. Obtaining a secured credit card, paying off any remaining debts, and ensuring you maintain a steady income can all help increase your mortgage eligibility. Additionally, some government-backed loan programs, such as FHA loans, may be more lenient when it comes to bankruptcy and offer options for individuals who have had a bankruptcy discharge.

While bankruptcy can create challenges for mortgage eligibility, it is not the end of the road. By rebuilding your credit, maintaining financial stability, and working with a mortgage lender who understands your situation, it is possible to secure a mortgage even after bankruptcy. It may take time, but with careful planning, homeownership can still be within reach.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Bankruptcy, Home Loans, Mortgage Eligibility

The Benefits of Paying Points on Your Mortgage

August 13, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

The Benefits of Paying Points on Your Mortgage
When you take out a mortgage, you may be given the option to pay points in exchange for a lower interest rate. A mortgage point, also known as a discount point, is equal to 1% of the loan amount. For example, if you re financing $200,000, one point would cost $2,000. While paying points means you ll pay more upfront, it can offer long-term savings. Understanding the benefits of paying points on your mortgage can help you decide if it’s the right move for you.

What Are Mortgage Points?
Mortgage points are fees paid directly to the lender at closing in exchange for a reduced interest rate. When you pay points, you essentially  buy down  the interest rate, which lowers your monthly payments. Typically, paying one point will reduce the interest rate by 0.25%, though this can vary depending on the lender and the market. While this option increases your upfront costs, it can result in significant savings over the life of the loan, especially if you plan to stay in the home for an extended period.

Lower Monthly Payments
The most obvious benefit of paying points on your mortgage is that it reduces your monthly payments. By lowering your interest rate, your monthly mortgage payment will be smaller, which can make a substantial difference in your monthly budget. For many homeowners, this can provide much-needed relief, particularly if they are dealing with high-interest rates or trying to reduce debt. Over time, the savings from lower payments may offset the initial cost of paying for points, making it a financially sound decision.

Long-Term Savings
In addition to lowering your monthly payment, paying points can result in long-term savings. The interest you save over the life of your loan can be substantial. For example, on a 30-year loan, reducing your interest rate by just 0.25% can save thousands of dollars in interest over the course of the loan. If you re planning to stay in the home for many years, paying points can be a wise investment, as the upfront cost will eventually pay for itself through the lower interest payments.

When Paying Points Makes Sense
Paying points may be a good choice if you have extra cash available at closing and plan to stay in your home for a long period. The longer you stay in the home, the more beneficial paying points can be, as it will take time for the upfront cost to be offset by the savings on your monthly mortgage payments. It s also a good idea if you re currently facing a high interest rate and want to lock in a lower rate without refinancing in the future. However, if you plan to sell or refinance in a few years, the upfront cost may not be worth the savings.

Factors to Consider
Before deciding to pay points, it s important to consider several factors, including your budget, how long you plan to stay in the home, and whether the upfront cost is feasible. You should also weigh how much you ll save with the lower interest rate versus the initial expense of paying the points. If you are unsure whether paying points is the right option, speaking with a mortgage professional can help you analyze the potential benefits based on your personal financial situation.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Loans, Mortgage Points, Mortgage Tips

Cash-Out Refinance vs. Rate-and-Term Refinance: Which One Is Right for You?

August 12, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

When considering refinancing your mortgage, two main options often come to the forefront: Cash-Out Refinance and Rate-and-Term Refinance. Both allow you to change the terms of your mortgage, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. Understanding the differences between these two refinancing options is crucial to making an informed decision that best aligns with your financial goals.

What Is a Cash-Out Refinance?
A Cash-Out Refinance allows you to replace your existing mortgage with a new one for more than you currently owe. You receive the difference in cash, which you can use for various purposes, such as paying off high-interest debt, funding home improvements, or covering significant expenses. This type of refinance is ideal if you have built up equity in your home and need extra cash for a specific financial need. It can provide an opportunity to consolidate debt or make investments, but it does come with risks. By increasing your loan balance, you may extend your mortgage term or raise your monthly payment, so it’s important to assess whether the cash received outweighs these potential costs.

What Is a Rate-and-Term Refinance?
A Rate-and-Term Refinance, on the other hand, does not provide any additional cash but focuses on modifying the terms of your existing mortgage. This could involve adjusting the interest rate, changing the length of your loan, or switching between a fixed-rate and an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). The primary goal of this refinance is to reduce your monthly payments or save on interest over the life of the loan. If interest rates have dropped since you took out your original mortgage, a Rate-and-Term Refinance can be an excellent way to secure a lower rate and reduce your financial burden without taking on additional debt.

Key Differences Between the Two Options
The fundamental difference between Cash-Out and Rate-and-Term Refinances lies in the purpose and outcome. With a Cash-Out Refinance, you’re borrowing more money, whereas a Rate-and-Term Refinance focuses on adjusting your current loan without increasing the amount owed. If you re looking for quick access to funds and have the financial ability to manage a larger loan, a Cash-Out Refinance may be the right choice. However, if you want to lower your monthly mortgage payment or reduce the interest you pay without taking on extra debt, a Rate-and-Term Refinance might be the better option.

When to Choose Each Option
Choosing the right refinance option depends on your financial situation and goals. A Cash-Out Refinance could be beneficial if you need to cover major expenses or want to invest in home improvements that could increase the value of your property. Conversely, a Rate-and-Term Refinance is ideal if you’re primarily focused on saving money in the long term and reducing your overall debt without taking on extra liabilities. It s essential to weigh the costs, benefits, and potential risks of each option before making your decision.

In either case, consulting with a mortgage professional can help guide you through the process and ensure you choose the best refinancing option based on your unique needs.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Loans, Mortgage Refinance, Refinancing Options

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 11th, 2025

August 11, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

The major report to look out for was the Trade Balance, which has decreased more than expected, suggesting that the current administration’s policies are having an impact. However, the long-term impact on the economy as a whole remain to be seen. This was followed closely by consumer credit, which came in far lower than expected, though many are predicting that consumer credit usage will grow over time. While the labor market remains constrained, the consumer market has remained stable in spite of the uncertainty brought on by the tariff policies.

Trade Balance
The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $60.2 billion in June, down $11.5 billion from $71.7 billion in May, revised.

Consumer Credit
Revolving credit, mainly credit cards, declined for the second straight month in June, the Federal Reserve said. Revolving credit fell at a 1% rate in June after a 3.5% drop in the prior month. Declines in credit-card borrowing are rare: The last time revolving credit fell for two straight months was during the COVID pandemic in 2020.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

  • 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.10% with the current rate at 5.75%
  • 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.09% with the current rate at 6.63%

MND Rate Index

  • 30-Yr FHA rates saw a decrease of -0.07% this week. Current rates at 6.15%
  • 30-Yr VA rates saw a decrease of -0.08% this week. Current rates at 6.16%

Jobless Claims
Initial Claims were reported to be 226,000 compared to the expected claims of 221,000. The prior week landed at 219,000.

What’s Ahead
A heavy week with the next round of inflation data being released with both the CPI and PPI reports. It should be noted that this CPI will feature less recorded data, relying more on estimations. In addition, Retail Sales, Consumer Sentiment, and Treasury Budget should prove to be impactful data releases.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Financial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

Why Retirees Are Taking Out Mortgages on Purpose

August 8, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

For generations, the goal was simple, pay off your mortgage before retirement and enjoy your golden years debt-free. But today’s retirees are changing the conversation. More and more, homeowners in or near retirement are choosing to take out a mortgage on purpose, not out of necessity. And for many, it is a smart financial move.

So why would someone take on a mortgage after age 60, 70, or even 80? The answer lies in strategy, flexibility, and long-term planning.

Preserving Retirement Assets

Many retirees live on a fixed income, often supported by savings, pensions, or investment accounts. Tapping into these accounts to buy a home in cash might not always be the best financial decision. Leaving more money invested can potentially result in better long-term returns than paying for a home outright.

Taking out a mortgage allows retirees to keep their assets working for them, while still enjoying the security and comfort of homeownership. This is especially true when interest rates are favorable, or when the goal is to maintain liquidity.

Buying a New Home That Fits the Next Chapter

Some retirees use a mortgage to purchase a home that better suits their lifestyle, perhaps a single-story floor plan, a home closer to family, or a place in a warmer climate. Selling a longtime family home may free up some equity, but not always enough to purchase the new property in full.

In these cases, using a mortgage to bridge the gap provides the freedom to make a move without disrupting financial plans or delaying retirement goals.

Reverse Mortgage Purchase Options

For retirees age 62 and older, a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase) is a powerful option. It allows buyers to use a portion of their own funds, combine it with a reverse mortgage, and purchase a new home without taking on monthly mortgage payments.

This program can be especially attractive for those looking to downsize, relocate, or free up cash while still owning a home and living independently. It is not for everyone, but for the right borrower, it offers security, flexibility, and peace of mind.

Tax Strategy and Estate Planning

Some retirees work with financial advisors to manage taxes and preserve wealth for their heirs. A mortgage can play a surprising role in these strategies, helping to control when assets are withdrawn, how gains are taxed, and how much liquidity is available year to year.

In certain cases, leaving assets in place and using a mortgage for major purchases can improve long-term outcomes, for both the retiree and their beneficiaries.

A New Perspective on Home Financing

Today’s retirees are financially savvy, well-informed, and planning for longer, more active retirements. A mortgage, when used intentionally, can support those goals, not get in the way of them.

If you are exploring your options and wondering how home financing fits into your retirement plan, let’s have a conversation. Whether it is a forward mortgage, a reverse option, or something in between, we are here to help you make the decision that is right for you.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Mortgage In Retirement, Retirement Mortgage, Smart Retirement Planning

Your Mortgage Timeline, Backward

August 7, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

For many homebuyers, the mortgage process feels like a maze. You know you want to own a home, but the path to get there can feel confusing. So let us try something different. Instead of walking forward through the process, let us walk backward, starting from the moment you get the keys and working our way to where you are now.

Seeing it in reverse can help demystify the journey and show you how each step builds on the last.

Closing Day: You Get the Keys

This is the moment you have been waiting for. On closing day, all paperwork is finalized, your loan is funded, and you officially become a homeowner. You sign your documents, funds are transferred, and the property title is recorded in your name. Congratulations, it is yours.

A Few Days Before Closing: The Final Review

Before closing, your lender completes a final review of your loan, often called a “clear to close.” We check for any last-minute changes to your credit, income, or financial status. You also complete a final walkthrough of the property to make sure everything is as expected.

One to Two Weeks Before: Underwriting Wrap-Up

Your loan goes through underwriting, where a trained underwriter reviews your documents to ensure everything meets lending guidelines. If anything is missing or needs clarification, we may ask for updates, commonly called “conditions.” Once satisfied, the loan moves to the final approval stage.

Weeks 2 to 3: Appraisal and Title Work

An appraisal is ordered to determine the home’s value. At the same time, a title company verifies legal ownership of the property and checks for liens or legal issues. These steps are key to protecting both you and the lender.

Week 1: Loan Application and Documentation

This is when you complete a full loan application and submit key documents, tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and photo ID. We also pull your credit report and lock in your interest rate, if you choose to do so.

A Few Days Before Applying: Getting Pre-Approved

Before you apply for a loan, you get pre-approved. This step helps you understand what you can afford and makes you a more competitive buyer. Pre-approval is based on a review of your income, assets, debts, and credit score.

Where You Are Today: Thinking About Homeownership

Maybe you are browsing homes online. Maybe you are just curious about what you qualify for. Wherever you are in the process, the most important step is getting informed. That starts with a conversation, no pressure, no commitment, just guidance.

The Takeaway

Buying a home does not happen all at once. It is a process, and each step builds on the last. Looking at it backward shows that it all starts with a simple question: “Am I ready to explore what’s possible?”

When you are ready, we are here to walk you through it, step by step, in whatever direction makes the most sense for you.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Closing Day Countdown, Home Loan Steps, Mortgage Timeline

From Divorce to Fresh Starts, the Mortgage Paths No One Talks About

August 6, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

When people think about getting a mortgage, the story usually sounds the same, young couple, starter home, perfect timing. But real life does not always follow that script. The truth is, many people come to the mortgage process in the middle of a major life change. Divorce, job loss, rebuilding credit, or starting over later in life, these chapters are real, and so are the mortgage paths that come with them.

If this is where you find yourself, you are not alone, and you are not without options.

Divorce and the Next Chapter

Divorce is one of the most common reasons someone might need to refinance, sell, or buy on their own. If your name is on a mortgage with your ex, there may be a need to separate financial ties, often through a refinance or buyout. Or you may be starting fresh and purchasing solo for the first time in years.

This process can feel emotional and overwhelming, especially when finances are tied up in court documents or shifting income. The key is working with a mortgage professional who understands these dynamics and can guide you through the paperwork, timelines, and financing options that support your transition.

Rebuilding After Setbacks

Job loss, credit challenges, or personal financial setbacks can leave people thinking homeownership is no longer within reach. But the mortgage world has changed, and there are more flexible programs today than many people realize.

Whether it is a low down payment loan, bank statement program for self-employed borrowers, or a second-chance plan for those recovering from bankruptcy or foreclosure, the right strategy can get you back on track. Time and planning matter, but so does working with someone who sees the potential, not just the past.

Later-in-Life Homeownership

There is a growing number of buyers starting over later in life, after divorce, after raising kids, or even after retirement. Many are surprised to learn that they can qualify for a mortgage in their 50s, 60s, or beyond.

You may be downsizing, relocating, or pursuing a lifestyle shift. Mortgage options like reverse mortgage purchases or tailored income calculations for retirees are designed to meet these needs. The key is to plan based on your goals, not outdated assumptions.

You Deserve a Mortgage That Fits Your Life, Not the Other Way Around

The traditional mortgage timeline does not apply to everyone, and that is okay. Life changes, priorities shift, and new beginnings come in many forms. The mortgage process should support that, not stand in the way.

Our role is not just to crunch numbers, it is to help you find a mortgage path that fits your current reality. Whether you are healing, rebuilding, or starting fresh, there is a way forward, and we are here to help you take the next step.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Life After Divorce, Mortgage Fresh Start, Real Life Home Loans

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Coleen TeBockhorst
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