Loan Hunter

Ever wondered how lenders determine how much home you can afford? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the factors that affect mortgage qualification. From calculating income based on different pay types—hourly, salary, self-employed, and more—to understanding debt-to-income (DTI) ratios, we’ll break it all down. Every situation is unique, and we’ll explore how these factors vary depending on...

Have you wondered why mortgage rates are still hovering around 7%, even though the Federal Reserve has cut rates in 2024? In this episode, we unravel the mystery behind mortgage rates and explain why they don’t align directly with the Fed’s actions. We’ll explore how the bond market influences mortgage rates, debunk common misconceptions spread by headlines, and discuss what the Federal Reserve’s...

In this episode, I’m sharing two recent success stories that highlight the power of strategic financing. First, I discuss a Veteran client who could have chosen a conventional loan but opted for a VA loan to protect against potential issues with the buyers of their home—a decision that almost became critical! Then, I dive into a story about a client who needed Jumbo financing but faced challenges...

In this episode, we’re just over two months into the new real estate landscape where commission structures have shifted. I share insights on what I've observed so far, explain the maximum seller concessions, and discuss how sellers can still cover agent commissions. Despite the changes, it's largely business as usual—so don’t let these updates deter you from entering the market! Tune in...

In this episode, I sit down with Nethanel Pokorny, CPA and founder of Pokorny and Associates, to discuss essential tax strategies every homeowner, real estate investor, and self-employed professional needs to know. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned real estate pro, understanding how to minimize your tax liability is crucial. We cover: Who needs a CPA and why How to reduce tax liabilit...

Divorce can be an emotionally and financially complex process, especially when it comes to dealing with property you own together. In this episode, we dive into what happens when a couple in California—a community property state—decides to split and one or both parties need to buy a new property or get out of the property they own together. We’ll cover the key steps you need to take to get off the...

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Roberts, a seasoned financial planner from Northwestern Mutual, to delve into the vital role financial planners play in securing and enhancing our financial lives. We discuss the various strategies and tools available to safeguard your loved ones from unexpected life events and how proactive planning can prevent your family from being blindsided in the event...

In this episode, I delve into the unique challenges and considerations self-employed borrowers face when buying a home. If you’re self-employed and thinking about purchasing a home, this episode is a must-listen! I’ll cover essential planning steps to ensure you’re showing the right income on your tax returns, explore alternative documentation methods like using business bank statements, and share...

In this episode, we sit down with realtor Corey Eames, who shares his incredible journey of building a thriving real estate business through the power of networking. Corey reveals the strategies he used to connect with key players in the real estate industry, build meaningful relationships, and create a robust referral network. You can reach Corey at 916-469-5102 or corey@racheladamsleegroup.com P...

In this episode, we're diving into how to set your kids up for future homeownership success. From safeguarding their social security number at a young age to harnessing the power of compound interest through investment accounts, I’ll cover essential strategies for building a solid financial foundation. I'll discuss the benefits of adding your child as an authorized user on your credit ca...

In this insightful episode, I dive deep into the age-old debate of buying versus renting. With the housing market constantly evolving, making the right decision about where to call home can feel daunting. But fear not - I'll break down the pros and cons to help you navigate this crucial decision. There is more to consider than just monthly payment so tune in to gain invaluable insight to help...

Step into the world of real estate with our latest episode, where we bring you a comprehensive market update for 2024. Join me as I sit down with local realtor expert, Rachael Bauer, from the Johnson & Bauer Real estate group, as we provide invaluable insights into the current state of the housing market and what it means for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. In this episode, we team up to...

Has the way we have been doing real estate for over 100 years about to change come July 1st, 2024? Tune in as I am joined by local real estate expert, Erin Stumpf, as we discuss what the National Association of Realtors settlement in the Sitzer-Burnett lawsuit means for our industry going forward. For some states, this won’t be anything new but here in CA, there are two significant changes coming...

Home loan refinancing is a very common thing when interest rates drop and you will get many phone calls, emails, and mailers telling you about all the great deals to be had. How do you figure out who to go with and who has the best terms? Is there such a thing as a true “no cost” refinance? One of the most common questions I get asked when someone is buying is what will the cost be when they go to...

In this episode, we delve into the often misunderstood concept of APR (Annual Percentage Rate) and its significance in home loans. APR represents the true cost of borrowing, encompassing not only the interest rate but also additional fees and charges associated with the loan. Join me as I break down the components of APR, explore its implications for borrowers, and uncover strategies to navigate t...

Did you know there are loan programs out there to buy investment properties without showing any personal income? Yes, we have a product that allows an investor to buy a property and we only lend by comparing the rental income the property will receive to the mortgage payment. It is a great loan for self-employed investors, someone who can’t show much income on paper for other reasons, or someone w...

If you are thinking about buying a piece of land to build your own home, this is the episode for you. I do a deep dive with my Empire Home Loans construction specialist, Dana Krause, to discuss all the things you need to consider if you are going to build your own home. The loan process is different than your everyday home loans we do and there are a lot of things you need to be aware of that coul...

Are you someone interested in learning how to flip property? Is it as easy as it appears? I sat down for a conversation with Bobby Peterson from Bobby Buys Homes to learn what it takes to find the deal, acquire the deal, and everything else you need to consider to be a great flipper. Bobby shares the good, the bad, and the ugly of what he has learned after completing over 100 successful flips. If...

Have you ever considered buying a little more rural, yet close to the city? Want small town living but close to good schools and all the amenities you might need? Then Wilton might be just the place for you. It’s a small community located not far from Elk Grove where most properties are on a couple of acres, there's a lot of hobby farming (think cows, pigs, chickens), and it's small enou...

While this can be a very boring topic, it’s probably one of the more frustrating things a consumer experiences over the life of their loan. You close your loan with one lender and before the first payment is even due, you receive a notice that you are to pay someone else. And then a few months or even a year or two later, you receive a notice again that who you are going to make the payment to is...

Many homeowners in CA consider getting solar on their property due to tax incentives, and depending on the electricity provider (PG&E is so expensive), they want the monthly savings it can provide. CA is also pushing many people towards solar over the next 10-20 years. But when solar companies offer you financing through a Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) loan, they don’t always tell you...

Are you over the age of 62 and considering getting a reverse mortgage or maybe you are gathering information for your parents or grandparents? There is a lot of misinformation out there and confusion based on what reverse mortgages used to be versus the product they actually are today. A reverse mortgage can provide a complete lifestyle change by getting rid of your monthly payment, giving you acc...

Today I am joined by my good friend, and my own estate planning attorney, Hannah Shakin, to discuss why it is so important to have a trust if you own any real estate. We also cover who needs a trust if you don’t own property, how to choose your trustee, the process of settling the trust, and what happens if you don’t have a trust and end up in Probate. This is such an important episode that everyo...

Are you considering selling your home and either downsizing, moving in with family, or going to assisted living? Maybe you're a family member helping them with this next phase of life. Tune in as I talk with Senior Real Estate specialist, Jenny Sapien, to discuss what special needs and considerations this population has when it comes to making that next move. This can be an extremely emotiona...

A lot of people put less than 20% of the purchase price down to buy a home which means they will have mortgage insurance. But what is it, why is it on the loan, how is the cost determined, and how do you get rid of it? I cover all of these frequently asked questions about mortgage insurance in this episode. Please reach out to me with any questions! Email: heather@empirehomeloans.com Phone: (916)...