Robby Oakes Mortgage

Chapel Hill Mortgage Lender | Robby's Blog about Mortgages in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Crystal Coast area of NC

  • Home
  • Our Main Site
  • Blog
  • Resources
    • Mortgage Calculator
    • First Time Home Buyer Tips
    • First Time Home Seller Tips
    • Home Appraisal
    • Home Inspection
    • Loan Checklist
    • Loan Process
    • Loan Programs
    • Mortgage FAQ
    • Mortgage Glossary
  • Contact Us

Could You Save Money by Refinancing Right Now?

July 18, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Many homeowners assume that if they did not refinance when rates hit historic lows, they missed their chance. But the truth is, refinancing is not only about chasing the lowest possible rate. It is about improving your overall financial picture. Depending on your current loan, interest rate, and personal goals, refinancing could still save you money or help you reach new financial milestones.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Mortgage Tips, Refinance Reports, Save Money

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

How to Talk to Your Parents About Co-Signing a Mortgage

July 16, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Asking your parents to co-sign a mortgage can be one of the most vulnerable conversations you will ever have. It is not just about paperwork and finances, it is about trust, timing, and long-term commitment. Whether you are a first-time buyer or trying to qualify for better loan terms, a co-signer can make a big difference, but only if everyone involved is fully informed and comfortable.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Cosign Help, First Time Buyer, Mortgage Tips

Creative Strategies for Saving on Closing Costs

June 13, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When you are budgeting for a new home, it’s easy to focus on the down payment, but do not forget the closing costs. These fees typically range from 2% to 5% of the home’s purchase price and cover things like the appraisal, title search, loan origination, and other administrative expenses. For many buyers, especially first-timers, they can feel like an unwelcome surprise.

The good news? There are creative, effective ways to reduce these expenses and make homeownership more affordable.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Closing Cost Tips, Homeownership Goals, Mortgage Tips

Are Interest-Only Mortgages A Smart Strategy or Risky Business?

June 11, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When exploring home financing options, many borrowers are intrigued by interest-only mortgages. These loans offer the benefit of lower initial monthly payments, which can seem attractive, especially in high-cost areas or when cash flow is tight. But how exactly do they work, and are they the right fit for your financial goals?

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Interest Only Mortgage, Mortgage Tips, Smart Home Buying

  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • …
  • 27
  • Next Page »

Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

How can we help?

Connect with Us

CIMG Residential Mortgage

Quick Links

  • Our Main Site
  • Accessibility Statement
  • NMLS Consumer Access
  • Privacy Policy
©2025 Robby Oakes Mortgage Team
Corporate Investors Mortgage Group
NMLS# 39460.
Licensed to Do Business in the State of NC

Equal_Housing_Opportunity

Copyright © 2025 · Powered by MySMARTblog

Copyright © 2025 · Genesis Sample Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in