Mortgage Mike Helps
Meet Mike Riley and Brendan Riley, your dedicated mortgage loan officers serving the greater Orlando area. With over 30 years of experience, Mike Riley is a seasoned expert in the mortgage industry and a trusted partner for homebuyers, realtors, and industry professionals alike. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate agent, Mike's deep knowledge, strategic insights, and strong local partnerships make him the go-to resource for all your mortgage needs. Mortgage Mike Helps is especially valuable for new and experienced realtors looking to sharpen their edge. Through short, insightful episodes, Mike and Brendan breaks down essential mortgage concepts, shares practical sales strategies, and delivers actionable tips for navigating the homebuying process. These bite-sized lessons are perfect for your morning commute or quick breaks, and full video episodes are available anytime at MortgageMikeHelps.com.
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How Condo Financing Works
05/15/2025
How Condo Financing Works
Mortgage Mike Helps | How Condo Financing Works Link to YouTube Video Episode: Condo deals don’t have to be scary—if you know what to expect, they’re often smoother than you think! In this episode, Brendan and Mike Riley break down everything you need to know about condo financing—from association approvals and Fannie/Freddie guidelines to avoiding deal-breaking delays. Whether you're a realtor working with condo buyers or a buyer yourself, this video pulls back the curtain on the often misunderstood world of condo mortgage approvals. Learn why some condos are a no-go for FHA and VA loans, how conventional loans offer more flexibility, and the critical role the condo association plays in your deal’s success. Stop losing condo deals over paperwork and miscommunication. Know the process, avoid delays, and close confidently. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Intro: Why condos don’t scare us – What makes condo financing different – The importance of association vetting & questionnaires – FHA & VA condo lists: strict yes or no – How conventional loan condo approvals work – Red flags: lawsuits, owner concentration, low reserves – The importance of insurance and cash reserves – Occupancy rules: when they do and don’t matter – Most condos do get approved—here's why – Why cooperation from the condo association is essential – Real-world delay example: part-time associations – Pro tip: Get contact info from the listing agent – Why realtors shouldn’t fear condos—we’ll do the heavy lifting Don’t let a mystery derail your deal—equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate condo financing like a pro. 📧 Email Us: [email protected]
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How Much Are Your Buyer’s Closing Costs?
05/15/2025
How Much Are Your Buyer’s Closing Costs?
Mortgage Mike Helps | How Much Are Your Buyer’s Closing Costs? Link to YouTube Video Episode: Are you puzzled by the term "closing costs" when buying a home? You're not alone. In this enlightening video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley break down the components of closing costs, helping you understand what you're paying for and why. They discuss factors that influence these costs, such as the closing date, homeowner's insurance, HOA dues, and title fees. By the end of this video, you'll have a clearer picture of the expenses involved in closing a mortgage deal and how to prepare for them. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube - Introduction Brendan and Mike Riley introduce the topic of closing costs in mortgage deals. - Common Questions About Closing Costs Discussion on the frequent inquiries from buyers regarding the specifics of closing costs. - Importance of Closing Date Explanation of how the chosen closing date affects the amount of prepaid interest. - Role of Homeowner's Insurance Insights into how the type and condition of the home influence insurance costs. - Impact of HOA Dues Exploration of how Homeowner Association dues and transfer fees can vary and affect closing costs. - Title Fees and Unknown Variables Discussion on the unpredictability of title fees and their contribution to closing costs. - Estimating Closing Costs Strategies for providing accurate estimates to clients and the importance of professional guidance. - Conclusion Final thoughts on the complexities of closing costs and encouragement to seek expert advice. Don’t let mystery fees wreck your budget—arm yourself with the facts so you can close with confidence and protect your financial future. 📧 Email Us: [email protected]
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How Property Tax Increases Affect Your Buyer’s Future Mortgage Payments
05/15/2025
How Property Tax Increases Affect Your Buyer’s Future Mortgage Payments
Mortgage Mike Helps | How Property Tax Increases Affect Your Buyer’s Future Mortgage Payments Link to YouTube Video Episode: Think your fixed-rate mortgage means fixed payments? Think again. In this eye-opening video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley delve into the often-overlooked world of property tax reassessments in Florida. Discover how purchasing a home can lead to a significant increase in your property taxes—and consequently, your monthly mortgage payments. We'll explore why two similar homes can have vastly different tax bills, the impact of Florida's "Save Our Homes" cap, and how the homestead exemption plays into this complex equation. Learn how to anticipate and plan for these changes to avoid unexpected financial strain. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Introduction by Brendan and Mike Riley – How property taxes vary based on last sale price and date – County's reassessment process after a home sale – Examples of significant property tax increases – Importance of informing buyers about potential tax hikes – Impact of tax increases on mortgage payments – Escrow shortages and temporary payment spikes – Legal limitations on escrow estimations – Real-life example: Tax implications on a $400,000 home – Clarifying misconceptions about the homestead exemption – Final thoughts and advice for buyers Don't be caught off guard—equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions and protect your financial future. 📧 Email Us: [email protected] #FloridaRealEstate #PropertyTaxReassessment #SaveOurHomes #HomesteadExemption #MortgageTips #HomeBuyingAdvice #FloridaHomebuyers #PropertyTaxes #MortgagePlanning #RealEstateTips
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Do Fed Rate Cuts Mean Lower Mortgage Rates?
05/14/2025
Do Fed Rate Cuts Mean Lower Mortgage Rates?
Mortgage Mike Helps | Do Fed Rate Cuts Mean Lower Mortgage Rates? Link to YouTube Video Episode: Confused about why mortgage rates aren't dropping even though the Federal Reserve is cutting rates? You're not alone. In this insightful video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley delve into the reasons behind the disconnect between the Federal Reserve's rate cuts and mortgage rates. They explain that while the Fed influences short-term interest rates, mortgage rates are more closely tied to long-term factors like the 10-year Treasury yield and inflation expectations. Understanding this distinction is crucial for homebuyers and real estate professionals navigating the current market. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Introduction by Brendan and Mike Riley – Common misconceptions about Fed rate cuts – Clarifying the Fed's influence on short-term vs. long-term rates – Factors influencing mortgage rates beyond the Fed – Market expectations and their impact on mortgage rates – The inverse relationship between Fed actions and mortgage rates – Inflation concerns and lender perspectives – Implications for homebuyers and real estate professionals – Conclusion and key takeaways Stay informed and make smarter decisions in today's housing market. 📧 Email Us: #fedratecuts #mortgagerates #interestrates #homebuyingtips #realestatemarket #inflationimpact #10YearTreasury #mortgageadvice #financialinsights #housingmarket
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The Win/Win for Sellers AND Buyers Using Seller Concessions Instead of Price Reductions
05/14/2025
The Win/Win for Sellers AND Buyers Using Seller Concessions Instead of Price Reductions
Mortgage Mike Helps | The Win/Win for Sellers AND Buyers Using Seller Concessions Instead of Price Reductions Link to YouTube Video Episode: Is your property lingering on the market with little to no interest? Before slashing the price, discover a smarter strategy that benefits both sellers and buyers. In this insightful video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley delve into the advantages of offering a mortgage rate buydown over a traditional price reduction. Learn how a $10,000 investment in a rate buydown can make your listing more attractive, save buyers more on monthly payments, and keep more money in your pocket compared to a $21,000 price cut. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Introduction by Brendan and Mike Riley – Addressing stagnant property listings – Considering a price drop from $500K to $479K – Introducing the rate buydown strategy – How a $10K buydown affects buyer's interest rate – Comparing buyer savings: price cut vs. rate buydown – Highlighting the win-win outcome for both parties – Conclusion and final thoughts Don't miss out on this win-win approach to selling homes in today's market! 📧 Email Us: [email protected] #mortgagetips #homesellingstrategies #RateBuydown #realestateadvice #sellyourhomefast #mortgageexperts #PriceReductionAlternatives #homesellingtips #realestatemarket #BuyerIncentives
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Your Buyer Will Qualify for an EXACT Monthly Payment And An APPROXIMATE Sales Price
05/14/2025
Your Buyer Will Qualify for an EXACT Monthly Payment And An APPROXIMATE Sales Price
Mortgage Mike Helps | Your Buyer Will Qualify for an EXACT Monthly Payment And An APPROXIMATE Sales Price Link to YouTube Video Episode: Think you qualify based on home price? Think again! In this eye-opening video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley break down why your mortgage approval has less to do with the sales price—and everything to do with the monthly payment. They explain how taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and even the age of the roof can impact whether you’re approved for a $360K home or a $440K one. If you're a homebuyer, real estate agent, or just exploring your options, this video is packed with essential insights that can save you time, money, and frustration. Before you make an offer, watch this! Brendan and Mike explain how two similar-looking homes can have wildly different approval results—and what you must do before signing that contract. – Meet Brendan & Mike: Your Mortgage Experts – Why mortgage approval is based on monthly payment—not price – How we calculate your max mortgage payment – Why you should call us before making an offer – The difference between how buyers/realtors see homes vs. mortgage lenders – Real example: Qualifying for a $440K home but not a $360K one – How tax history affects your loan approval – Final tip: Always call your lender before signing an offer Need help? Contact Us! 📧[email protected] #mortgageapproval #homebuyingtips #firsttimehomebuyer #realestateadvice #mortgagetips #mortgageexperts #homeownership #realtorlife #homeloanexplained #preapprovalletter
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Is Your Florida Home Buyer Legally Married, But Separated?
05/14/2025
Is Your Florida Home Buyer Legally Married, But Separated?
Mortgage Mike Helps | Is Your Florida Home Buyer Legally Married, But Separated? Link to YouTube Video Episode: Thinking of buying a home while separated or going through a divorce in Florida? STOP and watch this first! 🛑 Mike and Brendan Riley break down the critical legal and financial pitfalls of purchasing property while legally married—even if you're separated. Florida law treats marriage differently than other states, and it could cost you big if you don’t understand the risks. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Meet Mike & Brendan: What today’s “fun” topic is really about – Why being separated doesn’t count in Florida law – Buying a home while married: What MUST show on the deed – Risk: Your ex might claim equity years later – Why ex-spouses might need to sign at closing – The 3 key documents at closing: Deed, Note, Mortgage – Mortgage ≠ Loan: Clearing the biggest misconception – Should your ex get a lawyer? (Yes, here’s why) – The mortgage is a snapshot in time—not a lasting obligation – Ask early: Will your spouse show up to sign? – Divorce is a bummer, so… here’s a baby goat – Final thoughts & a reminder: This applies across Florida Whether you’re a homebuyer, real estate agent, or loan officer, this video is essential viewing when navigating divorce and real estate in Florida. Need help with your mortgage during a divorce? Contact Us! 📧 Email Us: [email protected] #FloridaRealEstate #DivorceAndRealEstate #HomeBuyingTips #MortgageAdvice #RealEstateFlorida #DivorceInFlorida #MortgageExplained #ClosingProcess #HomeBuyingMistakes #MortgageTips
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No Money Down Home Loans in Florida
05/14/2025
No Money Down Home Loans in Florida
Mortgage Mike Helps | No Money Down Home Loans in Florida Link to YouTube Video Episode: Think you need a big down payment to buy a house? Think again. In this episode, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley break down no money down loan options that are helping homebuyers in Florida get into homes with little to zero cash at closing! Whether you're a veteran, buying in a rural area, or a first-time homebuyer, there are powerful mortgage programs available that most people don’t even know exist. From VA Loans, USDA (aka “country loans”), to Florida Housing and Chenoa Fund programs—this video explains it all in simple terms with real-life examples. ✅ Learn how some of their clients walked away with their earnest money refunded, and how seller concessions can cover almost everything. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Intro: No Money Down Loans – VA Loans for Veterans – USDA Loans ("Country Loans") – Credit Score & Income Limits – First-Time Homebuyer Programs (Chenoa & Florida Housing) – Using Seller Concessions to Pay Less – Real Example: Buyer Pays $0 at Closing – How to Contact Brendan & Mike Want to get started or have questions? Contact Us 📧 Email Us: #noMoneyDownHomeLoans #VALoansExplained #USDALoansFlorida #FirstTimeHomebuyerPrograms #FloridaHousingLoan #ChenoaFundMortgage #BuyAHouseWithNoMoney #ZeroDownMortgage2025 #SellerConcessionsRealEstate #MortgageTipsForHomebuyers
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The 2 Things Your Buyer Must Know BEFORE Making an Offer
05/14/2025
The 2 Things Your Buyer Must Know BEFORE Making an Offer
Mortgage Mike Helps | The 2 Things Your Buyer Must Know BEFORE Making an Offer Link to YouTube Video Episode: Are your buyers ready to make an offer? Before anyone signs a real estate contract, they must know these 2 things: 1️⃣ What their monthly mortgage payment will be 2️⃣ How much cash they’ll need at closing In this quick but crucial video, mortgage experts Brendan and Mike Riley break down the biggest mistakes buyers make before going under contract—and how to avoid them. Too often, buyers skip the math and lose the deal. Don’t let that happen to you or your clients! Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, realtor, or just getting started with the homebuying process, this video will help you make smarter, more confident decisions. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube – Meet Brendan & Mike Riley: Your Mortgage Experts – What Every Buyer Must Do Before Going Under Contract – The 2 Crucial Numbers Every Buyer Needs – Why Everything Boils Down to Monthly Payment & Cash to Close – Fixed Rates & Prepayment Penalties vs What Really Matters – Real Story: “I Can’t Afford This Payment!” – Why Contracts Fall Apart Without These Numbers – Rejected Offer? It Follows to the Next Home – Seller Concessions & Customizing Cash to Close – The Surprising Gap in Buyer Follow-Up – Why It's Critical to Involve Your Lender Early – Older Homes & Insurance: What Buyers Often Miss – Final Tip: We’ll Run the Numbers So You Can Buy with Confidence 📞 Ready to get pre-approved or run your numbers? Contact us today—we’ll do the math for you! 📧 Email Us: [email protected]
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The #1 Reason Why Real Estate Deals Blow Up
05/14/2025
The #1 Reason Why Real Estate Deals Blow Up
Mortgage Mike Helps | The #1 Reason Why Real Estate Deals Blow Up Link to YouTube Video Episode: Getting a mortgage approved can feel like deciphering a novel longer than War and Peace—literally! With mortgage guidelines stretching over 1,000 pages, it’s no wonder borrowers feel overwhelmed. In this fun and insightful clip, we imagine St. Peter at the Pearly Gates explaining just how intricate home loan guidelines really are—and why you don’t need to worry about learning it all. That’s our job. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or refinancing, we break it down and make the process simple for you. - Meet Mike & Brendan Riley from the Mortgage Team - The #1 Reason Real Estate Deals Blow Up - Income and Employment Issues Are the Main Culprit - Buyers Making Offers Without Being Verified - Why Income Certification Is More Than Just W2s - Realtors Want to Write Offers Fast — But Here's the Risk - Pre-Approvals Without Docs? That’s Malpractice - What We Ask for Before Sending a Pre-Approval - Solving Problems Before the Contract Is Written - Underwriters Can Certify Income in Hours - Once Income Is Certified, the Deal Is Solid - Final Thoughts: Get Income Certified First - Bonus: Mortgage Guidelines Are 1,000+ Pages - You Don’t Need to Know It All — That’s Our Job Let’s get your deals closed smoothly. Contact us today! 📧 Email Us: [email protected] For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube
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Getting My Buyer Preapproved - THE PROCESS
05/14/2025
Getting My Buyer Preapproved - THE PROCESS
Mortgage Mike Helps | Getting My Buyer Preapproved - THE PROCESS Link to YouTube Video Episode: BEFORE you buy a house you must get qualified but BEFORE you search for a house you need a Pre-Qualification so that you are Pre-Qualified. You can't even think of putting an offer on a house in unless you have some sense that you can: 1. Finance it, and 2. Afford it The Pre-Qual process (short for Pre-Qualification Process) is the path to knowing what you need to know to be able to shop confidently and honestly. Mike Riley distills this for you so you can ask the right questions of your mortgage broker. Mike's here in Florida for you if you're searching anywhere here. If not, a qualified broker (ask for references if you don't know him or her) will be able to guide you well. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube 0:00 – Intro: Meet Mike Riley 0:08 – How Pre-Qualification Works 0:23 – Understanding Gross Monthly Income 0:52 – Mortgage Qualification Based on Debt Ratio 1:19 – What Counts Toward Debt 1:59 – Credit Cards: It’s About the Minimum Payment 2:13 – A Realistic Scenario Breakdown 2:30 – The Quick Formula for Buyers 2:46 – Wrap-Up: Use This as a Rule of Thumb #mortgageprequalification #howtogetprequalified #mortgagetips2025 #homeloancalculator #buyingahomeOrlando #mortgageprocess #firsttimehomebuyer #loanofficeradvice #softcreditpull #buyinghomesinflorida #buyinghomesincentralflorida #mortgageOrlando #mortgagehelpOrlando #mortgagehelpFlorida #mortgageassistanceFlorida
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What Will My Buyer’s Mortgage Payment Be?
05/14/2025
What Will My Buyer’s Mortgage Payment Be?
Mortgage Mike Helps | What Will My Buyer’s Mortgage Payment Be? Link to YouTube Video Episode: Figuring out your mortgage payment is EASY for a good mortgage broker. Understanding what goes into it is important. Mike Riley - Mortgage Loan officer, does just that in this episode. If you're ANYWHERE in the USA this math is going to be relevant but if you're in Florida - like Mike Riley is in Central Florida's Orlando Market - you're definitely doing the math like this. Mortgage Math is easy to learn with Mike Riley helping you out. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on YouTube 00:00 - Intro: Mike Riley, Loan Originator 00:11 - Why You Should Know the Payment Before Making an Offer 00:25 - Components of a Monthly Mortgage Payment 00:33 - Principal & Interest Explained 01:19 - Quick Estimation Formula: $6 per $1,000 Borrowed 01:53 - The Mistake of Trusting Online Calculators 02:13 - Property Taxes & How They Can Change 03:07 - Homeowner's Insurance Factors 03:46 - What PMI Is & Why You Pay It 04:17 - Total Estimated Monthly Payment on $400K Loan 04:36 - Don’t Forget About HOA Dues 04:50 - Call Mike Before Making an Offer #realestate #howtopayforclosingcosts #firsttimehomebuyer #mortgagedownpayment #downpayment #downpaymentplanning #howtobuyahome #buyinghomesinflorida #buyinghomesincentralflorida #mortgageOrlando #mortgagehelpOrlando #mortgagehelpFlorida #mortgageassistanceFlorida
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How Much Money Will My Buyer Need at Closing?
05/14/2025
How Much Money Will My Buyer Need at Closing?
Mortgage Mike Helps | How Much Money Will My Buyer Need at Closing? Link to YouTube Video Episode: Confused about how much money you need at closing for your mortgage? In this video, Mike Riley breaks down the numbers and explains closing costs for mortgages. There's a ton more than just a percentage down. There's actually 4 major categories so here we go... Give mike 7 Minutes and you'll have the scoop. For more expert mortgage tips, visit Subscribe for the latest videos from Mortgage Mike Helps on Youtube 00:00 – Introduction 00:46 – Down Payment ≠ Total Money Needed 01:05 – 3 Categories of Money Needed at Closing 01:10 – Down Payment Breakdown 02:10 – What Are Closing Costs 02:52 – Paying Points to Lower Your Rate 03:17 – Prepaids and Escrows Explained 04:36 – How Prepaids & Escrows Can Vary 05:20 – Sample Buyer Scenarios 05:46 – Credits to Offset Costs 06:41 – Putting It All Together: Sample Calculation 06:57 – The Most Important Reminder 07:03 – Final Advice: Call Before Making an Offer #realestate #howtopayforclosingcosts #firsttimehomebuyer #mortgagedownpayment #downpayment #downpaymentplanning #howtobuyahome #buyinghomesinflorida #buyinghomesincentralflorida #mortgageOrlando #mortgagehelpOrlando #mortgagehelpFlorida #mortgageassistanceFlorida
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