Mark Wilkins

Real Estate

🔍 What People Are Googling (And Why It Matters)

If you spend any time talking with homebuyers right now, you’ll hear the same questions over and over: “When will mortgage rates come down?” “Should I buy a house now or wait?” “How much house can I actually afford?” “Should I refinance?” “Are home prices going to drop?

Real Estate

What’s a DSCR Loan? A Game-Changer for Real Estate Investors

If you’ve ever looked into investment property loans, you’ve probably heard the term DSCR thrown around. It stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio, and it’s one of the simplest yet most powerful ways for investors to qualify for financing without relying on their personal income.

Real Estate

How Much House Can I Actually Afford?

Real Estate

Smart Tax Deductions Every First-Time Homeowner Should Know

Buying your first home can come with some helpful tax benefits and cost-saving programs. Homeowners may be able to deduct mortgage interest and property taxes, while certain energy-efficient improvements may qualify for tax credits. Mortgage insurance is currently not deductible.

Mortgage Planning

Divorce and the Mortgage: What Happens to the House?

Divorce and the mortgage: whoever keeps the house needs to actually qualify to keep it, and a divorce decree alone doesn't take anyone off the loan. Only a refinance, assumption, sale, or payoff does that. Four options: sell, refinance into one name, assume the existing loan, or keep it joint temp.

Real Estate

Why Waiting for Mortgage Rates to Drop Could Cost You More

Waiting for lower rates can backfire if home prices and competition rise. You can refinance a rate later, but not a higher purchase price. Focus on the right home, an affordable payment, and your overall financial picture.