Learning Center

Mortgage Guides

Step-by-step guides to help you navigate the home loan process with confidence.

BBB A+ Rated|NMLS# 272661  ·  NMLS# 2777159|Colorado Springs & the Front Range since 2005

18 guides available

Buying 8 min read

First-Time Homebuyer Guide

Everything you need to know about buying your first home in Colorado — from pre-approval to closing day.

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Buying 7 min read

Colorado Homebuyer Guide

Colorado's housing market has its own quirks. Learn what makes buying here different and how to come out ahead.

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VA Loans 8 min read

VA Home Loan Guide

You earned your VA benefit — now learn how to use it. A complete guide to VA loans for Colorado veterans and active-duty service members.

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Loan Types 7 min read

FHA vs. Conventional Loans

Not sure which loan type fits your situation? We break down the real differences so you can choose with confidence.

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Buying 7 min read

Down Payment Guide

How much do you really need to put down? Explore your options — from 3% to 20% — and find the strategy that fits your goals.

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Loan Types 6 min read

FHA vs. VA Loans

If you qualify for a VA loan, should you still consider FHA? Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you decide.

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Process 6 min read

Mortgage Broker vs. Banker

Who should you work with — a broker or a bank? Learn the key differences and why it matters for your rate and experience.

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Credit 7 min read

Credit Score Guide for Homebuyers

Your credit score is one of the biggest factors in your mortgage rate. Learn what lenders look for and how to improve your score before you apply.

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Credit PDF download

Credit Score Guide (PDF)

Download our printable credit score guide — a quick-reference breakdown of how your score affects your mortgage rate and what you can do to improve it before you apply.

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Process 6 min read

How Long Does It Take to Get a Mortgage?

From application to closing, here's a realistic timeline for the mortgage process — and what you can do to keep things moving.

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Buying 6 min read

The 20% Down Payment Myth

You don't need 20% down to buy a home. Learn the truth about down payment requirements and how to get into a home sooner.

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Credit 6 min read

Mortgage Myth: You Need Perfect Credit

Think your credit score isn't good enough for a mortgage? You might be surprised. Here's what lenders actually look for.

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Buying 6 min read

Should You Buy Now or Wait?

Rates are high. Prices are high. So should you wait? Here's a framework for making the right call for your situation.

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Process 6 min read

Mortgage Myth: My Bank Has the Best Rate

Loyal to your bank? That loyalty could be costing you thousands. Learn why shopping your mortgage matters more than you think.

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Credit 6 min read

Mortgage Myth: Pre-Approval Hurts Your Credit

Worried that shopping for a mortgage will tank your credit score? Learn how mortgage inquiries actually work and why rate shopping is smart, not risky.

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Buying 10 min read

Five Mortgage Myths in Today's Market

Think you know how mortgages work? Jerry busts five of the most common — and costly — mortgage myths that are stopping Colorado buyers from getting into homes.

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Buying 8 min read

How Much Home Can I Afford?

Learn how lenders calculate affordability — income ratios, DTI, real ownership costs — and how to find a budget that works for your life before you start shopping.

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Buying PDF download

How Much Home Can I Afford? (PDF Guide)

Download our printable affordability guide — a quick-reference worksheet covering income ratios, DTI, and real ownership costs you can take to any lender.

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Ready to put your knowledge to work?

Jerry and Lisa are here to answer your questions and walk you through every step of the process.

NMLS# 272661  ·  NMLS# 2777159