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Why Co-Signing a Car Loan Can Affect Your Mortgage Application

January 29, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Co-signing a car loan may seem like a small favor for a family member or friend, but many homebuyers do not realize how much it affects their own mortgage approval. Even if you never drive the car, never make a payment, and never see the vehicle, the loan becomes legally and financially tied to you. Understanding how co-signing affects your credit, your debt, and your loan options can help you protect your mortgage eligibility.

Filed Under: Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: Car Loans, Co-Signing, Mortgage Applications

Mortgage Tips for Recent Graduates Entering the Workforce

January 28, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Starting your career is an exciting milestone, and for many recent graduates, the idea of becoming a homeowner feels closer than ever. While student loans, new job transitions, and building credit can make the mortgage process feel overwhelming, you have more options and advantages than you may realize. With the right preparation, you can move toward homeownership confidently and avoid common first-time buyer mistakes.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: First-Time Home Buyer, Mortgage Tips, Recent Graduates

How to Qualify for a Mortgage With No Credit Score

January 27, 2026 by Robby Oakes

If you have no credit score, you may think homeownership is out of reach, but that is not true. Many people who avoid credit cards, pay with cash, or are new to the United States have no traditional credit history. Lenders call this a non-traditional credit profile, and while it requires extra steps, you can still qualify for a mortgage. With the right preparation, you can show lenders that you are responsible, consistent, and financially ready to own a home.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Home Buying 101, Mortgage Tips, No Credit Score

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 26th, 2026

January 26, 2026 by Robby Oakes

The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator — the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index — released under delayed conditions, but it was within expectations. Next week will be another Federal Reserve Rate Decision, and it is expected that the Federal Reserve will reduce rates at least one more time. The optimism among the broader market has been showing that multiple sectors that seem unphased by the administrative decisions and current political climate.

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

Mortgages and Divorce: Keeping Your Home During Life’s Changes

January 23, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Divorce or separation is a challenging time, and amidst the emotional and logistical complexities, handling mortgage issues can add another layer of stress.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Divorce, Property, Real Estate

Homeowners in Financial Distress: Mortgage Forbearance and Loan Modification

January 22, 2026 by Robby Oakes

In times of financial hardship, such as job loss, medical emergencies, or economic downturns, homeowners may find it challenging to keep up with their mortgage payments. When facing such difficulties, understanding options like mortgage forbearance and loan modification can be crucial for maintaining stability and avoiding foreclosure.

Filed Under: Home Mortgage Tagged With: Forbearance, Loan Modification, Real Estate

Exploring the Benefits of Buying a Fixer-Upper

January 21, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Are you in the market for a new home? Have you considered the allure of a fixer-upper? While the idea of purchasing a home that needs a bit of TLC might seem daunting at first, numerous benefits come with this type of investment. We will plunge into the exciting world of fixer-uppers and uncover why they might just be the perfect choice for you.

Filed Under: Real Estate Tagged With: Build Equity, Fixer-Upper, Real Estate

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 20th, 2026

January 20, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Inflation reports have shown their cards, and they have come in line with expectations. These newer reports rely on less data from sources overall, which is why the PCE Index remains the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator–and that distinction is even more relevant now.

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

The Role of A Down Payment: How Much Should I Save?

January 16, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Buying a home, a car, or any significant investment often involves making a down payment. The down payment is a crucial part of the purchasing process, as it can impact your loan terms, interest rates, and monthly payments. But how much should you save for a down payment, and why is it so important?

Filed Under: Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: Down Payment, New Home, Savings

Understanding the Jumbo Mortgage and Why Refinancing is Different

January 15, 2026 by Robby Oakes

So what exactly is a jumbo mortgage? How is it different from a standard mortgage, and what does that mean for your refinancing options? Here’s what you need to know.

Filed Under: Home Buying Tips Tagged With: Home Mortgage Tips, Mortgage Refinancing, Real Estate

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

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NMLS# 91606

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