Although the idea of buying your first home is exciting, the reality can be another thing altogether. Whatever age you are as a first home buyer, the struggle is real. When it comes to saving for a down payment and closing cost, finding the property you want within your budget and being able to pay the mortgage, our brains go into struggle mode. Don’t give up just because it seems hard. It is possible and if you follow these tips and stay committed to your goals, you too can become a... [read more]

That new car or almost new car smell is intoxicating. So intoxicating that you may forget to smell the roses.   While a car salesman may tell you they can get you approved for that new or slightly new luxury car. At no time will you see a disclosure or receive a word of caution that financing that car could hurt your future chances for buying a home. At no time will anyone tell you that it's possible you could be stuck for  for the several years building wealth for your... [read more]

Over the years I have had several conversations with friends and family members whom thought they would be secure in retirement because they have their 401(k). However, by way of my profession I was able to determine that for most women their 401(K) would not be nearly enough during retirement. As my peers and I have aged I see many of them are starting to di scover what I’ve known for quite some time - their 401K will not be enough.   Your 401(k) is a great way to start... [read more]

  Welcome to Mortgage Mondays.   A couple of weeks ago I posted that you could ask me me mortgage questions and I would write a post to answer your question. Although I know there has to be many people out there with questions only one person responded to the post with a question. Here’s what she asked as well as my answer and a ton of information on the topic. The Question I have found a house, but it needs some repairs and the seller won’t be doing any... [read more]

I spoke with 2 clients this week and another 2 or so in the week past. They all had the desire to purchase  homes in the immediate future. All were otherwise qualified, but lacked the funds for a down payment. They did not meet the criteria to obtain down payment assistance. Obtaining the funds from their 401K, borrowing against the cash value on an insurance policy, or obtaining a gift from a family member were also not options. During these conversations the potential buyers became... [read more]