Lynn’s blog
Straight talk on mortgages & credit
Practical articles from Lynn Marie Oates (NMLS #1495433) on navigating credit, down payments, and the mortgage process.
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How Life Changes Can Affect Your Mortgage Plan
Life doesn't sit still. One year you're single and renting, and the next you're married, or expecting, or starting a new job, or helping a parent, or thinking about retirement. Every one of those beau
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Thinking About Co-Signing? Here's What to Know First
Co-signing is one of those things that sounds simple enough… until you really understand what it means.
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What You'll Need for Your Mortgage (A Simple Document Checklist, No Stress)
When you start a mortgage, one of the first things that happens is someone asks you for a pile of documents. And I'll be honest, that request can feel a little overwhelming (and even a little personal
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Why Your Mortgage Credit Score Looks Different From the One on Your App
Picture this. You check your credit score on your favorite app (Credit Karma, your banking app, wherever), and you feel great about it. Then your mortgage lender pulls your credit, and the number come
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What Is a Blended Rate? (And How It Can Protect Your Low Mortgage Rate)
If you locked in a wonderful low rate a few years back, and now you find yourself needing to pull some cash out (maybe for a remodel, tuition, or to wipe out some high-interest debt), the thought of r
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How to Save for a Down Payment (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)
If you've ever looked at home prices, done some quick math in your head, and thought "there is no way I can save enough for this"… you are so not alone. It might be the number one worry I hear. And ho
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Is Your Preapproval Amount Your Homebuying Budget?
A preapproval is an important first step, but it doesn't always determine the right home price. Learn what really affects your buying power.
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Should You Make Extra Mortgage Payments?
Should you make extra mortgage payments? Learn the pros, cons, and how just one extra payment a year could save thousands in interest.
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Condo vs. Single-Family Home
Trying to decide between a condo and a single-family home? Here's a look at the pros and cons of each to help you choose the right fit.
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Buy Now, Pay Later: The Debt You Might Not Realize Is Affecting Your Finances
Buy Now, Pay Later can make shopping easier, but those small payments may impact your mortgage approval. Here's what every future homebuyer should know.
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