Lending with Leah: Recent Episodes
Leah Bunning
This is the podcast for anyone thinking about potentially owning, in the process of buying, or even owns their own home. Unlike many real estate/mortgage podcasts that are focused on bringing value to other industry professionals, this podcast is designed for the every day person. Real estate and mortgages can be overwhelming and are constantly shifting, so we're here to help you navigate those waters.
In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the often unspoken intersection of personal relationships, divorce, and real estate. Titled "Relationship Advice for Breakups: Managing Divorce and Real Estate," this episode fearlessly tackles the complex and sensitive topic of navigating real estate matters during and after a divorce or breakup. Acknowledging the discomfort surrounding divorce, we shed light on the crucial considerations that come into play when real estate is involved. Whether you're in the process of buying a property or are already a homeowner, the intertwining dynamics of divorce and real estate can be both challenging and transformative. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, we address the financial and emotional aspects of real estate during a breakup. The discussion covers navigating joint mortgages, property division, and the emotional toll that these transitions can take. In a candid moment, I share a glimpse of my own journey, discussing divorce, overcoming abuse, and the role real estate played in my healing process. Through this openness, I aim to provide relatable anecdotes and practical advice, fostering a sense of empathy and connection for my listeners. Tapping into the depths of relationship advice, this episode aims to be a source of comfort, guidance, and understanding for those traversing the delicate path of divorce, breakups, and real estate. By addressing the complexities head-on and offering insights into managing mortgages, property settlements, and emotional well-being, we empower listeners to navigate these challenging chapters with resilience and informed decision-making. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how to navigate the intersection of divorce, real estate, and relationship advice – ultimately setting a positive course toward new beginnings and a brighter future.
Unfortunately, when you mix jobs that have the potential to make a LOT of money (greed) + the ability to easily take advantage of people, you can end up in a bad situation. This happens all the time in real estate and mortgages. In this week's episode I break out the most common ways real estate agents and mortgage brokers take advantage of consumers. This way you can equip yourself with the knowledge; know what questions to ask, make the best decisions for yourself, and avoid becoming the next victim.
Welcome to our in-depth guide on preparing yourself for a successful home purchase and navigating the intricate world of mortgages! Whether you're a first-time home buyer or a seasoned real estate enthusiast, understanding the loan process is crucial. In this video, we delve into essential aspects like credit, income evaluation, and assets – factors that significantly impact your mortgage journey.🏡 Thinking about taking the plunge into homeownership? Let's demystify the complexities of the mortgage process together. We'll share invaluable insights on building and maintaining a healthy credit score, ensuring you're on the right track to secure the best possible loan terms. Learn the art of credit repair and optimization, opening doors to favorable interest rates and financing opportunities.💰 Are you equipped with the financial artillery for your home-buying mission? We discuss the critical importance of having sufficient funds for a down payment. Plus, we've got you covered if you're an entrepreneur or self-employed, revealing tailored strategies to approach the loan process uniquely to your situation.📈 Explore the strategies to present your income and assets effectively, making your application shine in the eyes of lenders. We'll help you navigate the landscape of credit cards and their impact on your mortgage journey. Our expert advice ensures you're well-prepared, regardless of your background or financial status.👔 Are you a business-savvy entrepreneur? Discover how your unique circumstances might impact your mortgage preparation. Learn the ropes of balancing business finances and personal assets to present a strong case to lenders.🔑 Unlock the doors to your dream home by mastering the mortgage game. Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to streamline your loan preparation process. Whether you're a credit novice, self-employed trailblazer, or simply eager to dive into the world of real estate, this video is your roadmap to success.🔔 Hit that notification bell and subscribe to our channel to stay updated on all things mortgage, real estate, and financial empowerment. Your home-ownership journey begins now – let's make it a smooth and informed one!
This is the big question of the year; will mortgage rates come down? Don't just take my word for it, or other people's, take your own! But in order to take your own, you first have to understand how mortgage rates work. In this week's episode I'll be going over...1) Understanding how mortgage rates work.2) What are these points everyone talks about?3) Forecast for mortgage rates in 2023. Once this episode is done I feel confident you'd be able to do your own personal forecasting for mortgage interest rates.
With all the talk about a housing market crash coming for us, why hasn't it happened yet? So many of us seem to be waiting for it, yet home prices continue to tick higher and higher. In this week's episode I break down the housing market for you so you can understand why this market is not like 2008. Throughout this episode I touch on 4 main points.1) What recessions historically mean for the housing market.2) Why today is different from 2008.3) What are the current statistics out there for the housing market. 4) Tips for navigating this housing market.
Welcome to Episode 30 of Lending with Leah! In this insightful episode titled "Condo Chronicles: Unveiling the Mortgage Maze for Condo Buyers," I am joined by Marissa Michaels, a mortgage broker with Level 10 Mortgage. Together, we take a deep dive into the complexities of obtaining financing for condos.Contrary to popular belief, securing a mortgage for a condo is a unique process that differs significantly from obtaining financing for a single-family home. In this episode, we unravel the intricate condo approval process, shedding light on the factors that can make certain condo projects ineligible for conventional financing.Join us as we explore the specific characteristics that impact condo financing and share six essential steps to ensure you're well-prepared when purchasing a condo. Whether you're a first-time condo buyer or looking to expand your investment portfolio, this episode equips you with valuable insights to navigate the mortgage maze of condo purchases.Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in obtaining financing for condos and empower yourself to make informed decisions throughout the condo buying process.
Welcome to Episode 29 of Lending with Leah! In this exciting episode titled "From Dreams to Dollars: Real Estate Investing Unleashed," I am thrilled to have Jacob Webb, founder and CEO of Level 10 Title, join me for the final week of our three-week mini-series.In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of real estate investing, exploring various strategies and financing options available to both new and experienced investors. Whether you're considering real estate investing for the first time or you've been in the game for a while, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the journey from dreams to dollars.We'll cover topics such as identifying lucrative investment opportunities, understanding different financing options, and overcoming common challenges in real estate investing. By the end of this episode, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to make informed investment decisions and maximize your returns.Join us as we unleash the secrets of real estate investing and empower you to turn your dreams into profitable realities.
Welcome to Episode 28 of Lending with Leah! In this highly informative episode, titled "Fraud-Proof Your Home Purchase," I am once again joined by Jacob Webb, founder and CEO of Level 10 Title, as part of our three-week mini-series.In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of fraud within the real estate industry, covering various types of fraud such as mortgage fraud, title fraud, and insurance fraud. Our goal is to empower you with essential tips and insider information to ensure you don't fall victim to fraudulent activities and safeguard your home purchase.With real estate fraud posing significant risks, it is crucial to understand the warning signs and protective measures you can take. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, this episode will provide you with invaluable knowledge and strategies to fraud-proof your home purchase.Tune in to gain exclusive insights and practical advice that will help you navigate the real estate market with confidence and security.
Welcome to Episode 27 of Lending with Leah! In this episode, titled "Title Work 101: Essential Knowledge For Home Purchasers," I am thrilled to have a special guest, Jacob Webb, founder and CEO of Level 10 Title. This episode marks the beginning of our exciting three-week mini-series.Join us as Jacob and I dive into the fundamentals of title work and provide you with the essential knowledge every home purchaser needs to know. We'll explore what title work is, how it impacts your home purchase, and why it holds such importance in the mortgage and homebuying process.Understanding title work and the role of title companies is crucial for a smooth and successful homebuying experience. Whether you're a first-time buyer or seasoned homeowner, this episode will equip you with the necessary insights to navigate the world of title work with confidence.
Join us on an informative episode of "Down Payment Assistance" as we explore the valuable role of down payment assistance mortgages in addressing housing affordability concerns. We begin by examining housing affordability issues, drawing upon the Zillow Home Value Index as a reference point. Additionally, we analyze the market shifts that have occurred between 2020 and 2023. Delving into down payment assistance loans, we focus on two specific programs: the HomeTown Heroes loan offered by FHFC and the Movement Boost loan. While most down payment assistance loans are tailored for first-time homebuyers, we highlight the unique feature of the Movement Boost loan that allows repeat buyers to benefit. Furthermore, we explain how veterans can utilize the HomeTown Heroes loan without being restricted to first-time homebuyer status. Tune in to discover the ins and outs of down payment assistance and how these programs can facilitate your path to homeownership.
Join us on the latest episode of "Refi, Sell, or Stay... Oh My!" as we welcome back Stephanie Edison, a seasoned real estate agent from Keller Williams. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the important decision-making process of whether to refinance, sell, or maintain the status quo with your home. Exploring the two main types of refinances, namely rate and term and cash-out, we provide detailed explanations to help you make an informed choice. Stephanie also shares her expertise on determining the value of your home, emphasizing the limitations of relying on "zestimators" for accurate valuation. Tune in to gain valuable insights and guidance for navigating your real estate options.
In this episode of "How Many Hands in the Mortgage Cookie Jar," we delve into the intricate world of mortgage transactions and shed light on the numerous parties involved. With as many as 16 individuals working together, we uncover the roles played by each participant in making a real estate transaction happen smoothly. From the buyer and seller to the buyer's agent, listing agent, and transaction coordinator, we explore the contributions of these key players. Additionally, we highlight the significance of escrow/title agents, loan officers, loan officer assistants, processors, underwriters, and closers/funders in the mortgage process. Furthermore, we delve into the roles of appraisers, insurance agents, surveyors, and home inspectors, emphasizing their crucial contributions. Join us in unraveling the complexities of mortgage transactions and gain a deeper understanding of the collaboration required to facilitate successful real estate deals.
This is episode 3 of 3 in my mini series on different types of mortgages/loans. This week I'll be DEEP diving into Conventional (Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac) loans, and breaking out the episode into 4 easy segments.1) Types of properties that work with/for Conventional loans2) Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac guidelines on credit, income, and assets3) Unique features of Conventional loans4) Busting 5 different myths on Conventional loans
This is episode 2 of 3 in my mini series on different types of mortgages/loans. This week I'll be DEEP diving into FHA loans, and breaking out the episode into 4 easy segments.1) Types of properties that work with/for FHA loans2) FHA guidelines on credit, income, and assets3) Unique features of FHA loans4) Busting 7 different myths on FHA loans
This episode kick starts a mini 3 episode series where I DEEP dive into a specific type of mortgage (loan). This week's episode is all about VA loans, and I'm breaking it into 4 easy segments for you guys.1) Types of properties that work with/for VA loans2) Specific credit, income, and asset guidelines for VA loans3) Unique features of VA loans4) Busting 10 (that's right 10!) myths on VA loans
In today's episode I brought on a special guest, Anna Brown, realtor with Keller Williams. Anna and I share real life horror stories of things that can happen during the mortgage and home buying process, and we share ways to combat those things from happening to you! It's important to take ownership of your home buying experience so you get a fairytale ending, instead of turning into a nightmare.
Housing affordability fears seem to have gotten more pressing, especially over the last couple of years. The median home price in the U.S. has increased dramatically, along with rent, and couple that with inflation running a muck it's no wonder people are scared. How do you combat housing affordability and the fear that accompanies it? You take responsibility and control over your homebuying experience AND you get creative. In this episode I'm going to give you 5 different ways on how to be creative when housing affordability is an issue you're facing.
Sr. Loan Advisor, Todd Hanley, joins me for this episode to discuss reverse mortgages and how they can add value to your overall retirement plan. There are so many myths surrounding reverse mortgages and HECMs, but in this episode we're going to debunk those for you.
Real estate is the number 1 and the fastest way to wealth creation. So why wouldn't you want to be an investor? I think a lot of people shy away from real estate investing because they just don't know where to start. This is why I brought Jay Abrams, real estate investor and designer, on the show! To give all of you the tips and tricks to real estate investing.
In today's episode I'm going to go through 6 different ways your credit impacts your mortgage...1) Minimum credit score requirements2) Credit Karma vs. mortgage companies3) How do mortgage companies determine your credit score?4) How does your credit impact your interest rate?5) How do collections and charge-offs hurt your mortgage process?6) How do disputing accounts effect your mortgage?... and 6 different tips on how to fix your credit. You'll have to listen to the podcast to get all the details.
What do you do when you already own a home, but you want to buy another one? This is a great question because there's a variety of different scenarios and each one is going to have different qualifications you must meet. In this episode I'll be covering 4 different scenarios in detail.1) Selling your current home and buying a new primary home.2) Turning your existing home into a rental property and buying a new primary home.3) Owning your current home and buying a 2nd home/vacation home. 4) Owning your current home and buying an investment property.
Does the thought of buying a home scare you? Does it overwhelm you? Does the commitment of it freak you out? Does talking to a stranger about your finances cause feelings of shame? If you answered 'yes' to any of these questions you're not alone. Tara Wells, owner of the Finish Line Mindset and licensed clinical social worker, and I have an open conversation around this topic. Getting the perspective of someone who hasn't gone through the home buying process yet, and who also can provide valuable insight into big emotions like fear and shame, was a special treat.
First time home buyers are currently making up about 1/3 of people purchasing homes. The real estate and mortgage markets are difficult to understand and navigate, especially when it's your first time going through the process. In today's episode Jesse Mutarelli (branch manager at American Financial Network) and I discuss how lenders specifically work with first time homebuyers.
Today's episode is all about capturing the homeownership experience. Buying a home, especially the home you're going to live in, is so much more than a transaction. It's one of, if not, the biggest purchase of a person's life. Often times that purchase is laced with all kinds of emotions. In this episode Devin Cobb and I chat openly, and wholeheartedly with our previous clients, Theo and Ashley. Their story truly captures what it feels like to go through the homeownership experience.
Did you know, not all property types can be financed in the same way? Did you know that there's different guidelines (rules and restrictions) depending on the type of property you choose to finance? In today's episode I'm going to give you a peek behind the curtain, and go over 5 different types of properties (single family homes, townhomes, condos, multi-family homes, and manufactured homes) and the nuances that come along with getting a mortgage on each type.
The mortgage industry is an amazing industry to work in. There are so many different career paths someone can take, and there's something that'll fit everyone's personality. In this episode, Charlotte Northway (loan officer and loan officer assistant) and I talk about different positions within the mortgage industry, and discuss some of the pros and cons of each.
The homebuying process can be overwhelming, and often times people don't know where to start and don't know what the appropriate next steps are. In this episode Devin Cobb, realtor and CEO/founder of The White Glove Notary Network, and I give you the homebuying road map. Starting with finding the right realtor and loan officer, and ending with finding the right notary for your closing.
The real estate market has shifted a lot since 2020, even more so in 2022, and as we get going into 2023... well, it's going to continue to shift. How is it going to shift? How do you respond to it? And is your response different if you're a seller vs. buyer? Flora Robertson and I break down the market, predictions for 2023, and how best to respond to it.
When getting a mortgage you don't just have your down payment to worry about, you also have closing costs. Closing costs can be confusing and clients can get taken advantage of if they don't understand how closing costs work. In this episode I'm going to explain and breakdown 6 different types of closing costs you'll see when getting a mortgage; origination fees, third party fees you cannot shop for, escrows, escrow account set up, title fees, and recording/tax fees.
Mortgages can be difficult to understand, and even more so when you're self-employed or a business owner. If you're self-employed and/or own a business you're going to have different guidelines you need to meet, compared to someone who's employed by a company. Thais Purdy (owner of Purdy Law) and I talk about the challenges and successes of being your own boss, and I break out 4 main pieces to getting a mortgage when you're self employed. 1) Length of self-employment 2) How is your income calculated? 3) What documents do you need? 4) Loan options if a traditional mortgage isn't right for you
Purchasing a home is not a one person job. There are many different parties involved with the purchase of a home, and there's one relationship in particular that holds extra importance; the realtor and lender relationship. In this episode Stephanie Edison and I will talk on the importance of the lender/realtor relationship; how it can both help and hurt the home buying process for a client.
Today's episode we welcome our first guest, Billie Jean (hypnotist, realtor, client, and friend). Billie just recently got her mortgage and home, but it wasn't an overnight thing. It was something she prepared, planned, and worked for. Billie also happens to have a very cool profession; she's a licensed hypnotist! In this episode we discuss her mortgage process as well as how to prepare and stay focused on your goal of buying a home.
This episode I dive into some different ways of overcoming fears; bravery and courage. I share one of my personal stories in which I overcame a very scary, and life threatening situation. I was in an abusive relationship/marriage for 5 and a half years and I talk about the fear I experienced during that time, how I overcame and got myself out of the situation, and how that situation led to a much brighter future. Having to overcome domestic violence has given me a lot of insight on how to overcome other fears, such as the fear of homebuying. In this episode I give you 5 tips on how to overcome your fears of buying a home and getting a mortgage.
Buying a home is riddled with emotion (for many) and is a major purchase in a person's life, so it makes sense that there would be a lot of fears surrounding the process. This episode we take time to break down exactly what fear is, why it can be a helpful emotion, and why it can also be a debilitating emotion. Then we break out some of the major/common fears that people experience in the homebuying process.
In appreciation of Halloween we're going to debunk 5 scary mortgage myths.
Myth 1: You need 20% for a down payment
Myth 2: You have to have AMAZING credit
Myth 3: A prequal is the same thing as a preapproval
Myth 4: Never get an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)
Myth 5: You need to be at your current job for 2 years