Keeping the family home may be an important goal during divorce, but being awarded the house and being financially positioned to keep it are two different things. Mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, post-divorce cash flow, and future financing should all be considered before the settlement is finalized.
Published on 09/03/2026
Comparing monthly rent with a potential mortgage payment is a natural place to start when deciding whether to rent or buy in California—but it doesn't tell you which choice is right for you. Your timeline, upfront cash, total housing costs, reserves, and broader financial goals can all be just as important.
Published on 09/02/2026
Learn how pricing your home right from day one captures maximum buyer momentum and avoids the stale listing trap.
Published on 08/31/2026
A successful business doesn't always translate into the same income for mortgage qualification. If you're self-employed and planning to buy or refinance a home, understanding how a lender may evaluate your tax returns, business structure, deductions, and income history before making major financial decisions can help you plan ahead.
Published on 08/26/2026
If bonuses, commissions, or overtime make up a meaningful part of your earnings, that income may be considered when qualifying for a mortgage—but earning it doesn't automatically mean all of it can be used. Understanding how variable income may be evaluated before setting your homebuying budget can help you plan with greater confidence.
Published on 08/25/2026
Discover why August through winter may give prepared 2026 homebuyers more inventory, less competition and greater negotiating power on price, repairs and incentives.
Published on 08/24/2026
A mortgage pre-approval is an important step toward buying a home, but it isn't a guarantee that nothing can change before closing. A new job, new debt, changes in income or credit, moving money between accounts, or changes to support income can all affect a mortgage file. Knowing what to avoid—and when to bring your mortgage professional into the conversation—can help prevent surprises.
Published on 08/20/2026
Paying off debt before buying a home may sound like an obvious strategy, but it isn't always the best use of your available cash. Depending on your financial picture, strategically paying down certain debts—or keeping more money available for your down payment, closing costs, or reserves—could put you in a stronger position for a mortgage.
Published on 08/18/2026
One of the most common goals during divorce is keeping the family home so children can remain in the same school and community. It's an understandable goal, but before that decision becomes part of a settlement agreement, there are three important questions every divorcing homeowner should answer.
Published on 08/18/2026
