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Why Your First Mortgage Payment Might Be Farther Away Than You Expect

September 22, 2026 by Robby Oakes

After closing on a home, buyers may be surprised to discover that their first regular mortgage payment is not necessarily due a few weeks later. Depending on the closing date, there can be a noticeable gap between receiving the keys and making that first payment. Understanding why can help new homeowners plan their finances during an already expensive transition.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Homeownership, Mortgage Payments, Mortgage Tips

How Buying a Home With Someone You Are Not Married To Changes the Financial Conversation

September 17, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Buying a home with a partner, friend, sibling, or other person can make homeownership possible sooner and allow two people to combine their financial resources. But when two people who are not married purchase a home together, there are financial conversations worth having before they begin looking at properties. A mortgage may be shared, but income, debts, savings, credit profiles, and expectations about ownership can be very different.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Home Buyer Tips, Homeownership, Mortgage Tips

Why Your Cash Reserves Matter After You Buy a Home

September 10, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Saving enough money for a down payment and closing costs can feel like the primary financial goal when purchasing a home. However, becoming a homeowner does not mean your need for savings disappears at closing. Keeping money available after the purchase can provide an important financial cushion as you adjust to the costs and responsibilities of homeownership.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Emergency Fund, Homeownership, Mortgage Tips

What Homeowners Should Know Before Removing Mortgage Insurance

August 28, 2026 by Robby Oakes

Mortgage insurance can make homeownership accessible with a smaller down payment, but many homeowners eventually wonder whether it can be removed. The answer depends on the type of mortgage you have, your loan balance, property value, payment history, and the rules that apply to your specific loan.

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

How a Large Down Payment Can Affect More Than Your Monthly Payment

August 27, 2026 by Robby Oakes

When buying a home, it is natural to assume that putting as much money down as possible is always the best financial decision. A larger down payment can provide meaningful advantages, but it also affects more than the size of your monthly mortgage payment. Understanding the broader impact can help you decide how much cash makes sense to use at closing.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Downpayment, Homeownership, Mortgage Tips

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

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