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Guides for buyers, veterans, homeowners, and anyone trying to understand a mortgage decision before they commit.
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76 articles
May 28, 2026
The New Trend Buyers Need to Watch
One of the recent announcements that caught attention involved a home builder partnering with a technology company to install small AI-supporting infrastructure units on the sides of new construction homes.
August 8, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Buying New Construction Homes: 7 Essential Tips Every Home Buyer Must Know
Buying a new construction home can be an exciting journey, but it's fraught with potential pitfalls that can turn your dream home into a financial nightmare.
July 15, 2025
How Much Down Payment Do You REALLY Need to Buy a House in 2025?
Buying a house is one of the biggest financial steps you’ll ever take—but how much do you actually need for a down payment?
June 12, 2025
Homebuyer Hacks - How to Get Sellers to Pay Your Closing Costs
Buying a home isn’t just about finding the right property. The smartest buyers use every tool available to lower their out-of-pocket expenses.
May 23, 2025
Homebuyer Beware: Red Flags That Scream "Don't Buy This House!"
Buying a home is a huge decision, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement. But what happens when you start seeing signs that maybe, just maybe, this isn't the right house for you?
May 14, 2025
Is Your Mortgage Preapproval Real or Fake? What Buyers Must Know
Worried your mortgage preapproval might be fake? Discover how to spot the red flags, what a real preapproval includes, and how to protect your homebuying journey in 2025.
April 15, 2025
A Veteran's Guide to the VA Certificate of Eligibility
Are you a veteran eager to use your VA home loan benefits, but find the VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) confusing? You're not alone. Read more.
April 3, 2025
Is That House Really Worth It? How to Spot Overpriced Homes
Ever scroll through listings and think, "Seriously? That house is worth that much?" You're not alone. The housing market can feel like a rollercoaster, with prices that seem to defy logic.
March 18, 2025
How to Spot a VA Loan Scammer - Protect Your Homeownership Dreams
Are you a veteran dreaming of owning a home? A VA loan can make that dream a reality. It offers incredible benefits. But some lenders use deceptive practices that target veterans.
March 4, 2025
What Every Home Buyer Absolutely Needs To Know About Pre-Approvals
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial first step in the home-buying journey. It tells sellers you're a serious, qualified buyer and helps you understand how much you can borrow.
February 27, 2025
The #1 Home Buying Mistake - And How to Avoid It!
Want to know what the number 1 biggest mistake homebuyers make is? It's failing to thoroughly ... You'll have read the post to find out!
February 18, 2025
What to Expect from Your Loan Officer as a Home Buyer
Here's everything you need to know about what to expect from your loan officer—and how to demand the service you deserve.
February 13, 2025
What Veteran Homebuyers Need to Know in 2025
Buying a home as a veteran in 2025 comes with unique advantages. From lower interest rates to improved loan limits, this year is shaping up to be a promising one for veteran homebuyers.
February 4, 2025
Are Solar Panels Worth It for Homebuyers? Pros and Cons
Buying or selling a home comes with enough decisions, but when solar panels are involved, things can get even trickier. Let's break it down.
January 30, 2025
Simplified Advice on How Mortgage Lenders Look at Your Credit
Understanding how mortgage lenders view your credit score doesn’t have to feel like cracking a secret code. Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps.
January 28, 2025
Creating a Legacy with Your VA Mortgage
What if your VA mortgage could be more than a tool to purchase a home—it could also help you create a lasting legacy? Let’s explore how one client is doing just that.
January 23, 2025
2025 VA Mortgage Limits Explained
For 2025, several important updates affect how veterans can use their entitlements to buy homes, especially in high-cost housing markets. Let’s break it all down
January 20, 2025
2025 Mortgage Loan Limits Have Increased - What You Need to Know
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has approved higher conforming loan limits for 2025. If you're planning to buy a home, upsize, or invest in real estate, this change matters.
January 15, 2025
California Fires - what you need to know now
Wildfires are an unfortunate reality of life in California. If you're a homeowner, renter, or prospective buyer,here's what you need to do right now to safeguard your property and your financial future.
January 14, 2025
First-Time Homebuyers - Stay Organized and Stress-Free
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming. You're juggling deadlines, paperwork, and communication with multiple parties. But here's the secret: organization is everything.
January 7, 2025
What Homebuyers Need to Know for 2025 - more
As a licensed mortgage lender with 19 years of experience and a top 0.1% producer in the industry, I want to cut through the noise and give you clear, accurate insights into what you should expect as a homebuyer in 2025.
January 2, 2025
Critical Tips for New Homeowners
Buying a home is a monumental achievement. It’s exciting, life-changing, and yes, a bit overwhelming. But as thrilling as it is, there are a few essentials you need to know to set yourself up for success. Learn more
December 31, 2024
Survival Tips For First Time Home Buyers
Buying your first home sounds exciting. But if you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, you're not alone. Here’s how you can stay centered and avoid common traps many first-time buyers face.
December 17, 2024
What Homebuyers Need to Know for 2025
Let’s cut through the noise and break down what 2025 holds for homebuyers with clear insights into mortgage rates, housing prices, and the opportunities available.
December 3, 2024
Can You Finance a Real Estate Agent's Commission?
When you're buying a home, every dollar counts. One question that pops up often is whether you can roll a real estate agent's commission into your mortgage. Learn more.
November 19, 2024
VA Mission - Stop Predatory Lenders
Veterans deserve better. They’ve served our country, and yet many find themselves unfairly treated when it comes to VA loans. Predatory practices by lenders are costing veterans thousands of dollars, and it’s time we put
November 5, 2024
Is Buying a Home Still the American Dream or Just a Nightmare
Headlines scream that homes are unaffordable, owning property is a trap, and the dream of homeownership is out of reach for younger generations. Some even suggest sticking to renting forever. Let’s break this down.
October 29, 2024
October Mortgage Rate Update and Forecast
Many people assume that when the Federal Reserve (FED) cuts interest rates, mortgage rates immediately follow. However, that's not how it works. Read more
October 22, 2024
The Number One Sign a Home is Overpriced | Jessica Beeston
When shopping for a home, it's essential to be aware of the tactics sellers and builders use to make a sale.
October 15, 2024
The #1 Thing To Do If You Want To Buy a House in 2025
If buying a house is on your list of goals in 2025, you’ve probably got a million things on your mind. But here’s the deal: none of that matters until you’ve done the one thing that most people forget to do first—create
October 8, 2024
How to buy a house step by step guide byJennifer Beeston
Buying a home can be one of the biggest, most exciting decisions you'll ever make. Yet, it's a process that often comes with a fair share of stress and confusion. While some may tackle this challenge with a trial-and-err
October 1, 2024
New Regulations and Housing Market Insights with Jennifer Beeston
Join us on Wealth! as we sit down with Jennifer Beeston, SVP of Mortgage Lending, to discuss new regulations affecting buyer-broker agreements and the current state of the housing market.
September 20, 2024
How to Buy a House Without a Real Estate Agent
Buying a home without a real estate agent is becoming more common. Some people want to avoid the commissions, while others feel confident handling it themselves or cannot afford to pay for a buyers agent.
September 19, 2024
How to Avoid a Common First-Time Homebuyer Mistake
Buying a home is thrilling, but it can also feel overwhelming. There's a lot to think about, particularly when it comes to the financial transition from renting to owning.
September 11, 2024
Overcoming Your Fear of Buying a House
Buying a house can be terrifying. For most people, this is the biggest purchase they’ll ever make.
September 3, 2024
Are You In A Toxic Real Estate Relationship?
Is your emotional attachment to toxic relationships in the real estate world sabotaging your chance of buying a home?
August 28, 2024
Hidden Costs of Homeownership and How to Prepare
Buying a home can be one of the most exciting decisions in your life. But before you pick out paint colors, there are some hidden costs that can sneak up on you if you're not prepared.
August 21, 2024
Buying a Multi-Unit Property with VA Loans - Key Considerations
Are you thinking about buying a multi-unit property using a VA loan? It's an exciting venture, but there are a few critical steps and considerations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth process and financial success. Here'
August 5, 2024
Three Warning Signs Your Lender Might Rip You Off
Buying a house should be a dream, not a nightmare. However, some mortgage lenders out there aim to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers with high rates and fees. Here are three signs that a mortgage lender may be about
July 24, 2024
How to Build Your Credit Score from Scratch
Building a credit score from scratch might seem daunting, but it's actually straightforward if you follow the right steps. In this guide, we’ll cover how to start building your credit and maintaining it efficiently.
July 9, 2024
Beware of Fake Mortgage Discounts
Let's talk about something that’s been driving me nuts for years: fake discounts in the mortgage industry. Fake discounts are everywhere in the mortgage industry. These so-called deals can be misleading and often hurt ho
June 27, 2024
Buying a House From a Family Member
Purchasing a home is a significant decision. When it involves family, the process can either become more complicated or surprisingly smooth. Here's how to ensure a successful purchase.
June 20, 2024
How To Recognize The Free Home Tour Trap
The latest twist due to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) lawsuit is a new kind of trick you should watch out for. The Free Home Tour Trap.
June 18, 2024
Why homebuying involves 'more than just the rate'
As the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate declines to 6.95%, potential homebuyers may find themselves with a strategic opportunity in the housing market.
May 15, 2024
Navigating VA loans with Low or poor credit scores
Navigating the world of VA loans can be complex, especially for veterans with low or poor credit scores. Understanding your options and rights can save you from predatory lenders and secure a deal that respects your fina
May 8, 2024
Embracing Conscious Consumption in the Age of Digital Influence
In the rapidly evolving world of digital technology and social media, our spending habits and emotions are being continuously shaped and manipulated. Jennifer Beeston, an experienced mortgage lender, explores this concep
May 7, 2024
Why Max Qualifying for a Mortgage is Riskier Than Ever
In the rush to secure a dream home, many first-time homebuyers, and even seasoned buyers, make the mistake of max qualifying for a mortgage. On the surface, it might seem advantageous to maximize your budget, but this ap
April 30, 2024
How to build wealth with your VA loan benefit
The VA home loan offers opportunities for veterans to enter the housing market, with no down payment and favorable terms. This benefit isn't just about acquiring a home; it's a gateway to accumulating wealth through stra
April 24, 2024
Insider Tips on Buying New Construction Homes You Need To Know
The appeal of a brand-new house that you can customize to your tastes is undeniable. However, there are pitfalls you must be wary of to ensure your new dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Learn more.
April 15, 2024
Understanding VA Loan Credit Requirements - A guide for veterans
Navigating the complexities of VA loans can be daunting, especially for veterans who are encountering the mortgage process for the first time. If this is you then checkout this guide for veterans.
April 3, 2024
Zero Stress Guide to Buying a Home - Step by step
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. But it doesn't have to be a stress-inducing process. Here's a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to purchasing your dream home.
June 8, 2023
Financial Literacy, Game Planning & Becoming Financially Empowered
Financial Literacy, Game Planning & Becoming Financially Empowered
December 19, 2022
5 Simple Ways to Become a Badass at Saving Money
Jennifer explains the importance of making saving a priority and focusing on your 401K.
December 18, 2022
What Is House Hacking? Hope for Buyers Who Can't Afford a Home
Jennifer discusses the benefits of House Hacking and how it can help you afford a home you did not think was possible.
February 28, 2021
VA Loans and Termite Inspections Report with Countries
VA Loans and Termite Inspections www.zerostressmortgage.com NMLS #247743 Jennifer Beeston Who Pays For The Pest Report? The 9 states where VA buyers can pay for a termite inspection are: Alabama Arkansas Arizona Californ
January 26, 2021
3 Big Signs You Are Not Ready To Buy A House
3 Big Signs You Are Not Ready To Buy A House Let me start by saying that if you are not ready right now it does not mean you will never be ready. The key is knowing where you are now and the steps to get where you want t
January 9, 2021
[Complete Guide] How to Rate Shop Lenders?
[Complete Guide] How to Rate Shop Lenders? First things first. You are not going to put your name and contact information on any sites that say they will offer you the lowest rate. That is a last resort. Some of those si
January 9, 2021
2nd Job Income for Loan Qualifying [Key Takeaways]
2nd Job Income for Loan Qualifying Often when people are looking at buying a home, they will get a 2nd job or an additional source of income so they can qualify for more house or save a bigger down payment. People are of
January 6, 2021
VA Loans and Your Credit Scores Impact on Rates
VA Loans and Your Credit Scores Impact on Rates VA loans are different from conventional loans in many ways. One of those ways is the impact to the rate based on your credit score. If you are doing a conventional loan yo
August 5, 2020
FHA Tightens Their Belt on Landlords and Self Employed
FHA Tightens Their Belt on Landlords and Self Employed For months I have been waiting. We knew it was going to come. It was impossible for FHA to not react to the economic havoc Covid has created. Landlords and self-empl
August 3, 2020
Self Employed Borrowers 2020 Additional Requirements
Self Employed Borrowers 2020 Additional Requirements Buying a home or refinancing a mortgage in 2020 has additional requirements for self-employed borrowers you need to be aware of if you are self-employed and looking fo
June 19, 2020
The Basics Of Money To Finance a Great Life!
The Basics Of Money to Finance a Great Life! Money is mysterious. It should not be but it is. We live in a country where our education system does not cover the basics of money. We cover 17th-century history but not how
June 17, 2020
How To Freeze Credit in 2020
How To Freeze Credit in 2020 Identity theft is happening everywhere. Everything is hackable and literally nothing is safe. The IRS has been hacked for goodness sake so you really have to go above and beyond to keep your
May 29, 2020
COVID 19, Foreclosures and the Impact to Housing
Dear Foreclosure Hunters, With unemployment hitting levels worse than the great depression people are wondering when we will see the fall out in the housing market. When will we see all the foreclosures which seem inevit
May 9, 2020
How Long Does It Take To Get Pre Approved For A VA Loan?
How Long Does It Take To Get Pre Approved For A VA Loan? Many people assume the VA mortgage process is long and arduous. This is not accurate. Getting a VA loan can be just as quick and easy as getting a conventional loa
May 4, 2020
How To Save Money To Pay Your Down Payment For Your Property
If you are looking at mortgage loans you need to shop your rate. I know you have heard that a million times before but I have to say that if you do not shop your rate in this market odds are you are leaving money on the
February 15, 2019
The 3 Big things you need to know about FHA
FHA (US Federal Housing Administration) has mortgage insurance no matter how much you put down. A lot of people assume that, since with a conventional loan if you put down twenty percent you don’t have mortgage insurance
January 22, 2019
First Time Home Buyers Program in the County of Sonoma
The first and most important thing you need to know about this program is that it is for Sonoma County employees in a SEIU local 1021 job classification. What is that? Odds are if you work for the county it makes total s
January 17, 2019
The city of Visalia, California offers a first-time home buyers’ program to purchase homes
The city of Visalia, California offers a first-time home buyers’ program to purchase homes in the City of Visalia. The purpose of the program is to help first time homebuyers into homes they can afford by granting them m
December 14, 2018
Ten Ways To Save Money in the New Year
1. If you own a home Get a mortgage checkup. If your interest rate is higher than the market or you have mortgage insurance, you may be able to refinance into a better position which would save you money. Refinances are
December 5, 2018
Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is a huge issue in our country. HUD considers anyone paying more then 30% of their income towards housing as cost burdened and may have difficulty affording basic life expenses such as food. In many pa
November 30, 2018
2019 Loan Limits Going Up
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have increased conventional loan limits for 2019: Explained I am sure by now you have seen at least a few social media posts about loan limits going up. They basically say new loan limits for 2
November 5, 2018
The Culture Of Always Being “on”
In the past ten years technology has radically changed the way we do business. We have the ability to do so many things faster and more efficient. But with any great achievement there is often sometimes a negative aspect
September 21, 2018
Timeline of a Purchase Loan: Controlling the Process
The post Timeline of a Purchase Loan: Controlling the Process appeared first on Jennifer Beeston.
September 10, 2018
How Much Mortgage Can I Afford?
You will need a basic calculator for this. The one on your phone is totally fine. In a perfect world you would talk to a great, amazing mortgage originator upfront. However, we all know that is not realistic and if you a
February 23, 2016
The #1 way to know you can afford your proposed mortgage payment
Lets start with a truth bomb. The max mortgage I can qualify you for will make you “house poor”. Yes, the way loan guidelines are written I can get you up to a level where you can pay your mortgage, basic bills and have