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How to Avoid Overpaying for Homeowners Insurance with Your Mortgage

December 10, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When you buy a home with a mortgage, homeowners’ insurance is not optional, it is required. Lenders need to know the property is protected, and you need the peace of mind that comes with knowing your largest investment is covered. The challenge is that many homebuyers end up paying too much for their policy without even realizing it. With a little preparation, you can avoid overpaying and make sure your insurance matches your true needs rather than one size that fits all approach.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Buyers, Mortgage Tips, New Homeowners

What Are the Pros and Cons of No Deposit Mortgage Loans

December 9, 2025 by Robby Oakes

No deposit mortgage loans can sound appealing to buyers who want to purchase a home without spending years saving for a down payment. While these loans offer clear advantages, they also come with risks and responsibilities that every buyer should consider before moving forward.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: First Time Buyer, Home Buyers, Mortgages

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 8th, 2025

December 8, 2025 by Robby Oakes

The PCE Index reports have come in–albeit delayed–and show inflation numbers that fell within expectations. The data also indicates that inflation has not worsened since before the government shutdown. It is widely believed that the Federal Reserve will likely cut rates once more.

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

You Ask, We Answer: How to Choose Between Expanding Your Current Home and Buying a New One

December 5, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Does your home feel like it’s starting to burst at the seams? Many homeowners across the country can relate to this feeling having bought a home only to run out of space due to a growing family or for other reasons. Let’s take a quick look at a few questions that will help you to determine whether buying a new home or expanding your current home is the best choice when you’re in need of some extra space.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Mortgage Planning, Mortgages, Refinancing

Understanding Why You Don’t Need to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

December 4, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Many homeowners feel pressure to pay off their mortgage as quickly as possible but faster is not always better. In many real-life situations, directing your money toward other financial steps can offer more growth, more protection, and more flexibility. Understanding when early payoff is helpful and when it is not can give you greater confidence in your long-term plan.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Homeowners, Mortgage Tips, Mortgages

Start the New Year with Strong Finances

December 3, 2025 by Robby Oakes

The end of the year is the perfect time to review your finances and make smart moves that set you up for success. A few focused steps can strengthen your budget, improve your credit, and prepare you for major goals in the coming year.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Financial Tips, Mortgage Advisor, New Year Prep

When and How to Save Money by Refinancing Your Mortgage

December 2, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Refinancing can be a smart way to lower your monthly payment, reduce your interest rate, or tap into equity for financial goals. Many homeowners wait too long to reconsider their loan, but the right timing can put real money back into your pocket. Understanding when to refinance and how the process works helps you make a confident decision.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Mortgage Planning, Mortgages, Refinancing

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – December 1st, 2025

December 1, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Many of the reports scheduled for release last week were delayed yet again, including the anticipated unemployment data. There is an expectation that they will be released next week. The only on-time release was the third-party Consumer Sentiment report from the University of Michigan, which aligned with expectations and generally indicated that consumers remain dissatisfied with the current state of things, citing high prices and consistently weakening incomes.

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

The Role of Mortgage Originators in Negotiating Loan Terms with Lenders

November 28, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Many buyers only see the visible steps in the mortgage process, such as gathering documents or reviewing approval conditions. Behind the scenes, a mortgage originator plays a significant role in advocating for the borrower and helping secure loan terms that match the buyeris financial goals. This guidance can make the entire experience smoother and more successful.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Home Loan Support, Mortgage Education, Mortgage Guidance

Thanksgiving Day Gratitude

November 27, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Today is a day to pause and reflect on the people who make this work meaningful. We are truly thankful to every person who has allowed me to be part of their home journey. Whether we have worked together in the past, are connected right now, or will meet in the future, we appreciate the trust you place in us.

Filed Under: Holidays Tagged With: Grateful For You, Home Journey, Thankful Heart

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

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