Chapel Hill Mortgage Lender | Robby's Blog about Mortgages in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Crystal Coast area of NC
by Robby Oakes
If you’re a homeowner, foreclosure is one of those things you hope you never have to think about. But if payments start getting tight, it can suddenly feel very real–and very overwhelming.
The good news? Foreclosure doesn’t happen overnight, and you usually have more options than you think.
by Robby Oakes
Remodeling your home can be one of the best ways to increase its value–and make your space actually work for your life. But let’s be honest: it can also go sideways fast if you’re not careful.
Whether you’re tackling a small update or a full renovation, avoiding a few common pitfalls can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
by Robby Oakes
The latest Trade Balance data has shown that despite the rigorous action involved with tariffs, it has had little impact on adjusting the trade balance amongst the US and other countries. The imbalance has gone the other direction — becoming worse — the last 3 releases alone.
by Robby Oakes
One of the most common misconceptions in home buying is that the amount you are approved for is the amount you should spend. In reality, lenders calculate the maximum you qualify for based on your income, debts, and credit profile.
by Robby Oakes
One of the most common mistakes buyers make after applying for a mortgage is changing their financial situation too quickly. This can include opening new credit cards, finance a car, or make large purchases. Even if you have already been pre-approved, lenders continue to monitor your financial profile until closing.
by Robby Oakes
A loan officer does much more than collect documents and submit applications. One of their most important roles is helping you understand your options in a way that makes sense for your situation. Mortgages are not one size that fits all, and the differences between loan types can impact your finances for years.
by Robby Oakes
One of the biggest advantages of getting pre-approved early is that it removes guesswork. Many buyers start searching for homes based on rough estimates or online calculators, which often do not reflect their true financial situation.
by Robby Oakes
A relatively light week given recent events, with the only notable releases being Consumer Sentiment and Retail Sales. Consumer Sentiment has broken its recent downtrend, ticking up slightly. However, in the face of rising gas prices and increasing costs of living, this may shift in the next release. Retail Sales have also shown a positive uptick, indicating that the economy remains resilient despite ongoing global events.
by Robby Oakes
Building your dream home from the ground up? If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or eligible military spouse, a VA construction loan could make that process a lot more accessible.
by Robby Oakes
Retirement is meant to be a time of freedom–not financial stress. But for many homeowners, a large portion of their wealth is tied up in their home, not easily accessible when it’s needed most.
That’s where a reverse mortgage–also known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)–can come into play. When used thoughtfully, it can be a powerful tool to help create more stability, flexibility, and peace of mind in retirement.
