As a seller, there are few moments more deflating than hearing your transaction is off—especially when you’ve cleared the inspection, negotiated every detail, and already packed half your house. Yet it happens more than many expect. What happens if buyer’s loan is denied? It’s a question every seller should ask before accepting an offer. The […]
Understanding Mortgage Pre-approval and Why It Matters
In today’s competitive real estate market, particularly in areas like Cedar Park, Round Rock, Leander, Lakeway, and Austin, Texas, navigating the home-buying process can be daunting. One crucial step in this journey is obtaining mortgage pre-approval. I am Robbie English, Managing Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty and I would love to dive in deeper into this subject with you. […]
How to Save for a Down Payment on a Home
Buying a home is a major milestone and one of the most significant financial decisions most people make in their lifetime. One of the biggest challenges prospective homebuyers face is saving for the down payment. For many, the thought of saving tens of thousands of dollars can feel overwhelming, but with the right plan, it’s […]
How to Navigate the Mortgage Application Process for Austin Homebuyers
Navigating the mortgage application process can be one of the most daunting aspects of buying a home, especially for first-time buyers. With so many steps involved, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, understanding each phase can simplify the process and help you secure the best possible mortgage for your needs. Here’s a detailed guide on […]
Refinancing Your Home: When and Why It Makes Sense
Refinancing your home is a significant financial decision that can impact your long-term financial health. As a homeowner, you may wonder when it makes sense to refinance and whether the benefits outweigh the costs. I am Robbie English, Managing Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon Realty and I would love to dive in deeper to this […]
Working with a Local Lender to Buy a Home in Austin
When it comes to buying a home in Austin, who you choose as your lender can make a significant difference in your home-buying experience and the options available to you. While big banks and national lenders might seem like the go-to choice, partnering with a local lender can offer distinct advantages, including potentially lower interest […]
The Crucial Number Every Homebuyer Needs to Know
When you think about buying a home, your mind probably jumps straight to your credit score. But there’s another number that’s equally—if not more—important. Enter your “magic number” for home-buying affordability. Let’s jump into my homebuyer budgeting guide: Why the Magic Number Matters The first thing we need to discuss in my homebuyer budgeting guide: […]
What Type of Credit Score Is Needed to Apply for a Mortgage Loan?
When it comes to applying for a mortgage loan, your credit score plays a crucial role in determining not only your eligibility but also the terms of the loan you might receive. A strong credit score can open doors to better interest rates, more favorable loan terms, and a smoother approval process, while a lower […]
How Much Money is Needed for a Down Payment?
Buying a home is one of the most exciting and financially significant milestones you can pursue. But before the keys are in your hand, one essential question comes first: how much money is needed for a down payment? Whether you’re just starting to consider homeownership or you’re already in the early stages of the process, […]
What About Buying a Home Without Loan? A Comprehensive Guide
Buying a home is a deeply personal, strategic decision. And while most people assume a mortgage is a required step, that’s not always the case. What about buying a home without loan? Yes, it’s absolutely possible—and in many scenarios, it can even be preferable. Whether you’re pursuing independence from interest payments or you’re strategically investing […]
The Pros and Cons of Buying in a High Interest Rate Market
When considering the purchase of a home in Austin, Texas, timing is key. The ebb and flow of interest rates can significantly impact your decision-making process. In this guide, we explore the advantages and disadvantages of buying in a higher interest rate market, empowering you to make informed choices in your real estate endeavors. Pros […]
Navigating Divorce and the Financial Affects of Refinancing Your Home
Divorce is rarely simple. It’s a moment of emotional upheaval, legal navigation, and often financial recalibration. One of the biggest sticking points? The house. And while who keeps the home can be a tense conversation, what often goes overlooked is the deeper financial hit lurking beneath the surface—refinancing. That’s where things can start to spiral […]
Overcoming Financial Hurdles When Buying A Home
Buying a home should be an exciting step forward—not an overwhelming process that leaves you stuck at square one. And yet, that’s exactly where many aspiring buyers find themselves: overwhelmed. For many, the biggest issue isn’t picking the right property, but overcoming financial hurdles when buying a home. Between trouble getting mortgage approval, growing debt, […]
Understanding the Top Mortgage Loans Home Buyers are Choosing
Finding the perfect place to call home is exciting—but it’s just one part of the bigger puzzle. Securing the right mortgage loan is where the real decisions get made. You don’t just want a loan that gets you in the door; you want one that keeps you comfortable long after the moving boxes are gone. […]
Home Buyers Financial Trade offs What Buyers give up to Buy Their Dream Home
Buying a home is more than a financial transaction—it’s a decision that touches nearly every area of your life. For many, it’s also where optimism collides with reality. The dream home you’ve imagined might be within reach, but not without some real-life shifts. Welcome to the world of Home Buyers Financial Trade Offs. And yes, […]
Mastering Home Financing Guide for First Time Buyers
When you ask What Home Buyers Want In A Home and look at what buyers looking for in home truly seek, the answers go beyond pretty kitchens and updated bathrooms. You want more. You want clarity. And you want someone who knows the market inside and out. That’s me—Robbie English, Broker and REALTOR at Uncommon […]
What Can I Afford When Buying A Home? | Your Homebuying Power
The question isn’t just about price—it’s about peace of mind, smart planning, and knowing where you truly stand. When you’re wondering how much home can I afford, it’s more than a quick math problem. It’s about preparing for success, minimizing surprises, and knowing you’re financially equipped to navigate this major purchase. And with Robbie English, […]
Unlocking the Door to Homeownership: A Look at Financing Trends
Let’s face it—buying a home is one of the most financially significant decisions you’ll ever make. That’s exactly why understanding your mortgage financing options from the start isn’t just helpful—it’s absolutely essential. Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, navigating the landscape of homeownership financing options the right way could mean the difference […]
Unveiling the Secrets of Home Financing: Where Down Payments Come From
When you’re thinking about buying a home, one question inevitably pops up: Where does the money for the down payment actually come from? It’s not always as simple as pulling from a savings account, though that’s often where it starts. These sources of down payments matter—a lot. They impact your financing strategy, loan eligibility, and […]
Home Loan Approval Process Game-Changer: Getting Fully Credit Approved
Dreaming of owning a home in the Austin or San Antonio area? As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right tools to make your home-buying experience smooth and successful. One crucial step that often gets overlooked but can make a world of difference is getting fully credit-approved for […]
How Much Should I Put Down | Expert Advice on Down Payments
It’s the question that can stall even the most motivated homebuyer: How much should I put down? This isn’t just about a number on a check—it’s about shaping your financial future, setting the tone for your mortgage, and potentially saving thousands over time. When you’re asking this, you’re really asking how to make a smart […]
Finding the Right Mortgage Partner: Why Experience Matters
Let’s cut right to it—finding the right mortgage partner can shape your entire home-buying experience. It’s not just about who offers the lowest rate. It’s about the team behind that rate. It’s about responsiveness, knowledge, and a commitment to navigating the twists and turns of mortgage financing in Texas with skill and care. When you […]
Benefits of Buying During Times of Higher Interest Rates
If you spend much time watching news outlets and charting their statements, there is never a right time to buy or sell real estate. It is either pricing, interest rates, housing shortage, or a mired of other reasons why it’s not a good time to buy or sell. Let’s talk about the benefits of buying […]
Buy now and then sell your current home later
Let’s talk about something most agents won’t even bring up — the option to buy now and then sell your current home later. Yes, that’s right. You can buy your next home before you sell the one you’re living in. This isn’t some theoretical idea. It’s an actionable, results-driven strategy that I and my team […]
Unlocking the Power of Your Credit Score: A Key to Loan Approval
When it comes to buying a home, the numbers matter—and your credit score may be the most important number of all. The credit score impact on home loan decisions is immediate and substantial, often determining whether you’ll get approved, what terms you’ll receive, and how much you’ll ultimately pay for your home over time. If […]
Will Increasing Mortgage Rates Impact Home Prices?
You’ve heard it before—mortgage rates are up, mortgage rates are down. But let’s cut through the noise and talk about what that actually means for you. Here’s the bottom line: mortgage rates impact home prices, and the connection is more important than many realize. Whether you’re contemplating the classic debate of rent versus buy or […]
Is Getting a Home Mortgage Still Too Difficult?
Potential homebuyers are always cautioned to be aware of mortgage lending standards and the difficulty they might face when trying to obtain a mortgage. Credit availability is expanding, making it easier to get a mortgage now than it was a year ago. The market is still tight, however, and homebuyers should be prepared to shop […]
Boost Your Credit, Unlock Your Dream Home
You’re not just shopping for a house—you’re positioning yourself to win. And to win in real estate, you need more than good timing and good taste. You need to boost your credit to unlock your dream home. That single phrase captures more than a financial tactic—it’s a roadmap to homeownership success. Why does this matter […]
Unlock Your Dream Home: 7 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Mortgage Lender
Let’s be honest: choosing the right mortgage lender can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s your first home purchase or your fifth, the mortgage process isn’t exactly designed to be simple. That’s why these 7 tips for choosing the perfect mortgage lender will help you cut through the noise, eliminate guesswork, and make a decision that serves […]