FHA Compensating Factors: Strengthening Your Loan Application

FHA Compensating Factors: Strengthening Your Loan Application

FHA loans provide accessible homeownership opportunities through lower down payment requirements and flexible credit standards. However, some applicants fall just short of standard qualification criteria. FHA compensating factors offer a solution by allow

Dec 30, 2025 | Purchasing a Home

Is a 15-Year Mortgage a Good Choice?

Is a 15-Year Mortgage a Good Choice?

These shorter loans come with higher monthly payments but much lower interest rates. This might save you a boat-load of money, especially if you are already a homeowner, trading up with lots of equity.  Understanding the Basics: 15-Year vs. 30-Year M

Dec 26, 2025 | Interest Rates

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

As the holiday season fills our hearts with joy and our homes with warmth, we want to take a moment to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas! From all of us at 18th Street Mortgage, thank you for being such an important part of our year. Your tr

Dec 23, 2025 |

Using a HELOC to Pay Off Credit Card Debt: Is It Right for You?

Using a HELOC to Pay Off Credit Card Debt: Is It Right for You?

Credit card debt affects millions of Americans, with high interest rates making it difficult to make meaningful progress toward becoming debt-free. A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) offers one potential solution by allowing you to leverage your home's

Dec 16, 2025 |

Starter Home vs. Forever Home: Making the Right Choice

Starter Home vs. Forever Home: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between a starter home and a forever home represents one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make. Each option offers distinct advantages and challenges that affect your immediate budget, long-term wealth building, and lifestyle fl

Dec 09, 2025 | Purchasing a Home

Buying a Property with Existing Tenants

Buying a Property with Existing Tenants

It's thrilling to purchase a home, and it becomes even more fascinating when renters are included in the agreement! Buying a home that is already occupied by tenants can result in immediate rental revenue, but it also entails acquiring established tenant

Dec 02, 2025 | Purchasing a Home