Should You Pay Points to Lower Your Rate? If you’ve ever gotten a mortgage quote and seen “discount points” or “rate buydown” listed, you might have wondered… Is it worth paying extra upfront to get a lower interest rate? The answer? Sometimes yes. Sometimes no. It all depends on how long you plan to hold […]
Refinancing your home doesn’t mean going it alone. At Stairway Mortgage, we believe every homeowner deserves a support team, not a sales pitch. That’s why we surround you with real people whose job is to guide, protect, and empower your journey. Here’s who’s on your side — and what they actually do. 1. Mortgage Advisor
Whether you’re buying your first home or your first investment property, one of the biggest decisions is this: Do you go single-family… or multi-family? Each path has pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, your goals, and your long-term wealth plan. Let’s break down the key differences so you can decide
When you’re shopping for a home loan, most people start with their local bank or credit union. But here’s the truth: Your bank only has one offer. A mortgage broker has dozens — and our job is to fight for you, not the lender. At Stairway Mortgage, we believe educated clients make empowered decisions. So
If you own property, you don’t just need a title and a will — you need a plan. That plan should include a trust — because trusts aren’t just for the ultra-wealthy. They’re one of the simplest and most powerful tools to: Avoid probate Protect your assets Control what happens to your real estate —
Big news — Stairway Mortgage has leveled up. We’re proud to announce that we are now a Direct Correspondent Lender. What started as a high-performing brokerage has grown into one of the top-producing mortgage platforms in the country — and now, we fund loans with our own capital. So what does that mean for you?
If you’re 62 or older and own your home, a reverse mortgage might be the financial tool you didn’t know you needed. It’s not a scam. It’s not giving your house away.It’s a strategic way to access the wealth in your home — without selling it or making monthly payments. Here’s what you need to
1. What Is PMI, and When Do You Pay It? Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is a monthly cost added to your mortgage payment when you: Put down less than 20% on a conventional loan Have a higher-risk loan profile from the lender’s point of view PMI doesn’t protect you—it protects the lender in case you default. It usually adds 0.3% to
Everyone wants the lowest mortgage rate — and for good reason. Even a small difference in your rate can mean thousands of dollars saved over the life of your loan. But here’s what most people don’t know: It’s not just about the rate you’re quoted. It’s about the structure, the timing, and who’s negotiating for
Let’s be honest — the housing market can feel unpredictable. Rates move. Prices fluctuate. Inventory shifts. It’s tempting to wait for “the perfect time.” But here’s the truth: time is your greatest asset when it comes to building wealth through real estate. At Stairway Mortgage, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers realize that the smartest move
Paying for college has never been more expensive — or more emotionally charged.For grandparents who want to help but are on a fixed income, the desire to contribute can feel at odds with protecting their own retirement. But there’s a little-known, strategic solution that’s helping families across the country fund college without draining savings or