Why Your Credit Score Matters More Than You Think

General Michele McGarvey 9 Sep

When it comes to buying a home, many people focus on saving for a down payment or finding the right property. But there’s another piece of the puzzle that plays a huge role in your mortgage options: your credit score. Your credit score is essentially a snapshot of your financial reliability. Lenders use it to […]

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Fall: The Perfect Season to Focus on Your Home Goals

General Michele McGarvey 5 Sep

As the school year kicks off and families settle into their new routines, fall brings a fresh opportunity to focus on your housing plans. The hustle of summer moves and vacations slows down, making it an ideal time to think about what your next home chapter looks like. Maybe your family needs more space for […]

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Why Mortgage Protection Insurance Matters More Than Ever

General Michele McGarvey 15 Aug

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when we least expect them. A sudden job loss, a serious illness, or the unexpected passing of a loved one can quickly change your financial picture. When your income is affected, the thought of keeping up with mortgage payments can feel overwhelming—and the last thing you need in […]

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Wondering How Much Home You Can Actually Afford?

General Michele McGarvey 8 Aug

A mortgage pre-approval isn’t a commitment—it’s a clear picture of what you can afford based on your income, credit, and financial situation. It helps you house hunt with confidence, knowing your budget is backed by real numbers. With a pre-approval in hand, you can: ✔ Make stronger, more competitive offers ✔ Focus on homes in […]

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What to Expect During a Home Appraisal

General Michele McGarvey 28 Jul

A home appraisal is a key step in the mortgage process, helping lenders determine a property’s fair market value before approving financing. Whether you’re buying, refinancing, or selling, an appraisal ensures the home’s value aligns with the loan amount requested. Here’s how it works: A licensed appraiser conducts a detailed evaluation of the home, considering […]

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Your House Hunting Checklist: What to Do Before You Start Touring Homes

General Michele McGarvey 25 Jul

House hunting is exciting—but it’s also easy to get overwhelmed without a clear plan. Before you start booking showings, here are a few essentials to check off your list: ✅ Get Pre-Approved:Knowing what you can afford not only helps you focus your search, it also shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. ✅ Set Your Budget […]

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Unlock Tax-Free Cash with the CHIP Reverse Mortgage

General Michele McGarvey 16 Jul

If you’re 55+ and own your home, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage by HomeEquity Bank offers a way to access up to 55%* of your home’s value—without selling, moving, or making monthly payments. It’s a flexible, tax-free option that can support your retirement goals. Here’s how it can help: Preserve Your Savings Instead of dipping into […]

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Buyers decide in the first few minutes—make it count.

General Michele McGarvey 10 Jul

Did you know that professionally staged homes often sell faster and for a higher price? Regardless of market conditions, a great first impression can make all the difference. Staging doesn’t require major renovations. Simple steps like decluttering, rearranging furniture, updating décor, and adding greenery can transform a space. Summer is the perfect time to showcase […]

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Transform Your New Home with a Purchase Plus Improvements Mortgage

General Michele McGarvey 3 Jul

Fallen in love with a home that almost checks all the boxes? Maybe the kitchen needs an update or the flooring could use an upgrade—this is where a Purchase Plus Improvements mortgage can help! This mortgage option allows you to roll the cost of certain renovations into your mortgage at the time of purchase. That […]

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Mortgage Renewal: Don’t Just Sign—Strategize!

General Michele McGarvey 25 Jun

When your mortgage comes up for renewal, it might seem easiest to sign the lender’s offer and move on. But that convenience could cost you. Your renewal is a perfect opportunity to reassess your financial goals and explore better options. With interest rates, home equity, and life circumstances constantly changing, the mortgage you needed five […]

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