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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

Home Security Systems for a Safe Haven

January 14, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Home is where the heart is, and it’s also where you should feel the safest. Ensuring the security of your home has never been more attainable. Home security systems have evolved from simple locks and alarms to sophisticated, interconnected networks that provide round-the-clock protection.

Filed Under: Homeowner Tips Tagged With: Home Safety, Real Estate, Security

You Ask, We Answer: What Are the Pros and Cons of Private Mortgage Insurance?

January 13, 2026 by Robby Oakes

It’s easy to get Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) confused with homeowners’ insurance, but PMI is an entirely different thing that may or may not be necessary when it comes to your home purchase. If you’re going to be investing in a home in the near future and are wondering what PMI may mean for you, here are some things to consider regarding this type of insurance.

Filed Under: Home Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Mortgage Tips, Mortgage, Mortgage Insurance

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – January 12th, 2026

January 12, 2026 by Robby Oakes

The trade deficit dropped significantly this month, resulting in the smallest gap in the last 16 years. This has been entirely driven by the ongoing gold rush and, to a much less impactful degree, businesses working their way around high tariffs. The unemployment reports, however, have shed another light, showing a steady trend of unemployment rising and reaching a four-year high as of last week.

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

Why Closing Old Credit Accounts Can Hurt Your Mortgage Approval

January 9, 2026 by Robby Oakes

When you are preparing to buy a home, it is natural to want your credit profile to look clean and organized. Many buyers think closing old credit accounts will improve their score, simplify their finances, and make them appear more responsible to lenders. In reality, closing old accounts can have the opposite effect. Those accounts play a much bigger role in your credit profile than most people realize and shutting them down can create sudden changes that impact your mortgage approval.

Filed Under: Home Buyer Tips Tagged With: Credit Health, Home Buying 101, Mortgage Tips

What to Know About Fractional Homeownership and Mortgages

January 8, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Fractional homeownership is becoming more popular as buyers look for creative ways to enjoy a second home or vacation property without taking on the full cost. Instead of owning one home entirely, you purchase a fraction of the property and share ownership with several other people. While the idea sounds simple, fractional ownership comes with unique rules, financing challenges, and long-term commitments that every buyer should understand before moving forward.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Fractional Ownership, Mortgage Tips, Vacation Homes

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

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NMLS# 91606

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