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Mortgage Protection and Insurance for Your Home Loan

October 14, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When buying a home, mortgage insurance can be an important but often misunderstood component of your loan. It is designed to protect lenders from the risk of borrower default, but it can also impact your monthly payments and overall loan cost. Knowing the types of mortgage insurance, when it is required, and how to manage it can help you make informed decisions and potentially save money over the life of your loan.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Financing, Mortgage Protection, Mortgage Tips

Creative Mortgage Options Shared Appreciation and Other Alternatives

October 8, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Traditional mortgages are not the only way to finance a home. For buyers who want more flexibility or who face unique financial circumstances, creative mortgage options can provide alternative pathways to homeownership. These products are not always as well-known as standard fixed-rate loans, but they can be powerful tools when used wisely.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Financing, Mortgage Options, Mortgage Tips

Interest-Only Mortgages Explained

October 7, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When shopping for a mortgage, you may come across an option that allows you to pay only the interest for the first several years of the loan. These are called interest-only mortgages, and while they may sound appealing at first glance, they are not the right fit for everyone. Understanding how they work and who benefits from them is key to making a smart decision.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Financing, Mortgage 101, Mortgage Tips

The One Number More Important Than Your Credit Score for Mortgage Approval

July 17, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When it comes to getting approved for a mortgage, most people immediately think of their credit score. While it is definitely important, there is another number that can play an even bigger role in your approval, our debt-to-income ratio. Also known as DTI, this number gives lenders a clearer picture of your ability to manage monthly payments and overall debt.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Debt to Income, Home Financing, Mortgage Tips

Can I Roll Closing Costs Into My Mortgage to Reduce My Upfront Expenses?

May 1, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a range of upfront costs that can add up quickly. One of the biggest financial concerns for many homebuyers is closing costs. These expenses, which typically range from 2 to 5 percent of the home’s purchase price, can put a strain on your budget. If you are wondering whether you can roll your closing costs into your mortgage to reduce your upfront expenses, the answer depends on the type of loan you are using and your lender’s guidelines.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Closing Costs, Home Financing, Mortgage Loans

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

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