Mortgage Minute

Welcome to our Mortgage Minute page—your go-to destination for the latest product news, mortgage insights, and industry updates. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, refinancing your loan, or exploring market trends, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and up-to-date information. Stay informed and make confident financial decisions with our trusted mortgage resources.

Jennifer Patel 10/26/26 Jennifer Patel 10/26/26

A Home Loan Worth Knowing About

What if you could buy a home with just 2.25% down and no monthly mortgage insurance? HUD Section 184 could open the door for eligible Native American homebuyers.

Jennifer Patel 10/19/26 Jennifer Patel 10/19/26

🚨 Low Credit Score? New Rules!

Mortgage credit rules are changing! With VantageScore 4.0 expanding and one major lender removing minimum credit score requirements on select loans, buyers who were previously turned away may have new opportunities. Here's what you need to know.

Jennifer Patel 10/5/26 Jennifer Patel 10/5/26

No Credit Score? You Still Have Options

No traditional credit score? That doesn’t automatically mean no mortgage. Learn how non-traditional credit works, what lenders may use to qualify you, and how VantageScore 4.0 is changing the mortgage credit conversation.

Jennifer Patel 8/24/26 Jennifer Patel 8/24/26

💰 Is Your Earnest Money Really Safe?

Earnest money shows you’re serious—but is it protected? Learn how purchase contingencies, financing, and a thorough preapproval work together to help protect your deposit.

Jennifer Patel 8/10/26 Jennifer Patel 8/10/26

💰Saving for a Home? Here's How to Buy Sooner Than You Think

Think you need 20% down to buy a home? Learn how seller concessions, low down payment programs, and smart savings strategies can help you reach homeownership sooner.

Jennifer Patel 7/27/26 Jennifer Patel 7/27/26

Inspection vs. Appraisal:

Many homebuyers think inspections and appraisals are the same—but they serve very different purposes. Learn what each one does, how they protect you, and why both are critical before closing on your new home.

Jennifer Patel 7/13/26 Jennifer Patel 7/13/26

🏡 Lower Your Payment for Year One

A limited-time lender-paid 1-0 buydown could lower your monthly mortgage payment by about $250 per month during your first year of homeownership. Learn how it works, see a real-world payment example, discover how two families used the program, and find out why eligible loans must be locked by August 31, 2026.

Jennifer Patel 5/19/26 Jennifer Patel 5/19/26

🏡Not All Credit Help Leads to Faster Homeownership

Thinking about buying a home but worried about debt or credit scores? Not all “credit help” programs work the same way. Here’s how debt consolidation and credit optimization can lead to very different mortgage outcomes for first-time buyers.