Let’s be honest, today’s real estate market is a little… unpredictable. Rates are moving, inventory is tight, and clients are more cautious than ever. As a mortgage broker, I’ve been having a lot of real talk with clients lately and one thing is clear: education is everything right now.

Whether you are first-timers, upsizing, or downsizing, here are three things you should keep in mind:

Pre-Approval is No Longer Optional

I know, it’s always been important. But in this market, it’s non-negotiable. Rate holds are tighter, lender guidelines have changed, and affordability is shifting by the week. A strong pre-approval can give you confidence. and give you a competitive edge when making an offer.

It’s Not Just About the Rate

Everyone asks, “What’s your best rate?” But a smart mortgage strategy goes deeper. Should you go fixed or variable? Is there a penalty to break early? What if life changes? These are the questions we need to be asking. Especially now, flexibility and long-term planning matter more than ever.

Bridge Financing & Portability: Plan Ahead

With move-up buyers, timing the sale of a current home with the purchase of a new one can get tricky. The earlier we talk about bridge financing or porting options, the smoother the transaction. No surprises = happy clients.

Bottom line? The mortgage conversation needs to happen early and often. If you’re not working with a mortgage professional yet, let’s team up and we will guide you. We’re not just securing financing, we’re helping you build a future you feel good about.

Let’s make home happen.