Smart Mortgage Show with Bill Litton
If you have questions about the mortgage process of buying a home or the ins and outs of refinancing then this is the show for you. Join CrossCountry Mortgage Regional President Bill Litton as he breaks down key lending terms, answers listener questions, and provides you tons of tips and education about the mortgage world. You could save thousands of dollars on your next mortgage decision just by tapping into some of the great information on the Smart Mortgage Show. Schedule a time to meet with Bill and learn more and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions. 484-352-4151. NMLS3029 Equal Housing Opportunity.
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Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM): Smart Move or Risky Bet?
09/18/2025
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM): Smart Move or Risky Bet?
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation With mortgage rates holding steady in the mid-6% range and home prices still elevated, more buyers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are turning to adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) as a way to lower their monthly payments upfront. The strategy? Grab the lower rate now and hope for a refinance later. But is this smart planning or a financial gamble? In this episode, Bill breaks down the pros and cons of ARMs, explains how they actually work, and reveals what worst-case scenarios could look like for your monthly payments. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 ARMs may offer lower initial payments than 30-year fixed loans 🎯 Types of financial situations that would benefit ⚠️ Beware of the realities of adjusting rates – often significant 📰 Headlines often exaggerate risks, but careful planning is still critical Fortune Article: Millennials and Gen Z are gambling on a big mortgage-rate drop, using ARMs and refinancing. But that could be a ‘financial ticking time bomb’: CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Much Do I Need to Make to Afford a $1 Million Home
09/11/2025
How Much Do I Need to Make to Afford a $1 Million Home
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation With home prices climbing, the once-rare million-dollar home is now surprisingly common in many markets. But what does it really take to afford one? In this episode, Bill breaks down the difference between what you can qualify for versus what you can truly afford, and other key factors to take into consideration when shopping for a $1 million home. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💰 Qualifying for a mortgage is not the same as being able to afford it 📊 Retirement savings shouldn’t get sacrificed for a larger mortgage 🏡 Why million-dollar homes are becoming more common in today’s market 📉 How your down payment size impacts monthly payments and loan terms CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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The Latest Mortgage Rate Projections for 2026
09/04/2025
The Latest Mortgage Rate Projections for 2026
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation The Federal Reserve is expected to cut interest rates soon, but what does that mean for buyers, sellers, and homeowners? In this market update, we’ll unpack the latest Fed projections, why economists expect a 25–50 basis point cut, and what that could mean for mortgage rates in 2025 and 2026. Plus, the latest forecasts are out for next year from the Mortgage Bankers Association, Fannie Mae, and the National Association of Realtors, all pointing to gradual rate declines towards late 2026. We’ll give you the latest and discuss what it could mean for you. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Fed cuts expected – 25–50 bps reduction likely at September meeting. 📊 Forecasts aligned – MBA, Fannie Mae, NAR all predict rates for 2026. 🏠 Buyer impact – First-time buyers benefit most from lower rates. 🔄 Refinance window – Homeowners at 7% could see real savings if rates hit 6%. CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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When Should You Shop For a Mortgage Lender?
08/28/2025
When Should You Shop For a Mortgage Lender?
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation Could starting the mortgage process too late cost you the perfect home? Timing is everything in real estate, especially when it comes to choosing your mortgage lender. In this episode, Bill explains why the earlier you connect with a lender, the better your chances of securing the right home and the right loan. To avoid last-minute surprises and strengthen your offer in a competitive market, Bill explains the benefits of starting the mortgage conversation early and exactly to go about it. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🕒 Why early contact with the lender gives you an edge 📊 How accurate numbers guide better home searches 🛡️ The truth about credit checks when shopping for lenders 💡 Why the phase between pre-approval and contract is so important 🏆 How a great lender strengthens your offer CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Much Should You Disclose to Your Loan Officer?
08/21/2025
How Much Should You Disclose to Your Loan Officer?
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation Buying a home can be exciting, but when it comes to sharing personal and financial details with your loan officer, how much is too much? And can withholding information actually hurt you? In this episode, Bill, explains why being open and upfront is the best strategy for securing the right loan. One wrong move could derail your approval, cost you thousands, or even put your dream home out of reach. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏠 Why full disclosure can make or break your mortgage approval 🗝️ How your loan officer uses your information to get the best terms ⚠️ Common mistakes that cause mid-process loan headaches 🕵️♂️ Questions you must ask when choosing a lender 🧩 How future plans and life changes factor into your loan strategy CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Assuming a Mortgage After a Divorce
08/14/2025
Assuming a Mortgage After a Divorce
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation Divorce is hard enough without losing your home and a great mortgage rate in the process. But can you keep that 2–3% interest rate if you and your spouse split? In this episode, we’ll explain the ins and outs of mortgage assumptions during and after divorce, and why it’s rarely as simple as it sounds. You’ll learn who can actually assume a loan, what qualifications you’ll need to meet, and the often-overlooked challenges of working directly with your loan servicer. We’ll also share strategies for structuring divorce terms to make keeping the marital home (and the low rate) more likely, plus options if you’re the “out spouse” needing a new place to live. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏠 What an assumption is 📋 Qualifying rules – You must re-qualify on your own; adding new borrowers is rarely allowed. 🛑 Servicer challenges – The assumption process is often slow, unclear, and unsupported. ⚖️ Divorce terms matter – Structure agreements to improve the odds of keeping the home. 💡 Specialized help exists – Work with a mortgage pro trained in divorce lending guidance. CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Is a Rate Drop Coming? August Mortgage Market Update
08/07/2025
Is a Rate Drop Coming? August Mortgage Market Update
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–minute consultation As we roll into August, Bill shares a timely market update on what’s driving mortgage rates right now. What’s catching Bill’s eye as fall approaches? Interest rates, buyer moods, and the real forces moving Pennsylvania’s market. And for Pennsylvanians thinking about buying, selling, or refinancing, these shifts could directly impact timing, pricing, and long-term cost. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 Housing market trends in August 🧐 What inflation and tariffs could mean for rates 🚪 Is the seller’s market finally shifting in PA? ⏳ Should you wait to buy or refinance now? CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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What’s the Best Time to Lock in Your Interest Rate?
07/31/2025
What’s the Best Time to Lock in Your Interest Rate?
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15-minute consultation You’re getting close to buying your home, but now comes the big question: when should you lock in your mortgage rate? Rates move constantly, and with economic shifts, political uncertainty, and global factors like tariffs, it can be tough to predict where they’re headed. In this episode, Bill explains what most buyers completely miss about locking in their interest rate, and how that oversight can lead to blown budgets, disqualified loans, and missed opportunities. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🔒 Why locking your rate is more important than you think 📉 How float-down options can save you money 🏦 The danger of waiting too long 💬 Real-world scenarios that cost buyers big 📊 How Bill’s team strategizes lock timing with data CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Homebuyers: Don’t Open a Credit Card During the Mortgage Process – Here’s Why
07/24/2025
Homebuyers: Don’t Open a Credit Card During the Mortgage Process – Here’s Why
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–20 minute consultation with Bill It’s tempting, isn’t it? You’re just days or weeks away from closing on your new home, and a shiny new credit card offer shows up. Travel perks, cash back, or maybe a great financing deal on furniture. But even if it seems harmless, opening new credit during the mortgage process can create big problems. In this episode, Bill shares why you should never take on new credit before settlement, no matter how solid your financial situation seems. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ⚠️ Why opening a new credit card can delay or derail your mortgage 📉 How a single credit inquiry can trigger re-underwriting, delay closing, or raise your rate 🚫 The serious risks of changing jobs (or pay structure) before settlement 📣 Why full transparency with your lender is so critical CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Non-Obvious Mistakes That Could Derail Your Mortgage
07/17/2025
Non-Obvious Mistakes That Could Derail Your Mortgage
📞 Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: 📲 Text “LEND” to 21000 to schedule a free 15–20 minute consultation with Bill Most homebuyers know to avoid major credit moves or switching jobs during the mortgage process, but what about the mistakes that don’t show up on every checklist? In this episode, Bill breaks down the lesser-known mortgage missteps that trip up even financially responsible buyers. Maybe you have an 800 credit score, a million in the bank, or even a paid-off home, but these overlooked issues may still derail your loan or raise your rate. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🧾 Retirees may struggle to qualify—even with assets and equity—if income is low ⚠️ One late credit card payment causes more damage than you’d think 📉 A high credit score and big bank balance doesn’t guarantee approval 💸 Lenders need to source where your money came from, not just that you have it 🧱 The 4 pillars of pre-approval and how to make sure they’re all solid CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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July Update: Mortgage Applications on the Rise
07/10/2025
July Update: Mortgage Applications on the Rise
🏠Get your free mortgage consultation here: Mortgage rates have dipped slightly, home inventory is increasing, and buyer interest is starting to rebound, but are we really entering a more stable housing market? In this episode, Bill Litton of Cross Country Mortgage shares what he’s watching this July, including key mortgage rate shifts, updated application trends, and how tariffs could impact inflation and interest rates in the months ahead. We’ll also unpacks how buyer behavior has shifted after three years of rate anxiety and why many homeowners are choosing to “bite the bullet” on today’s higher rates rather than keep waiting. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Mortgage rates dipped a bit, refi and purchase apps are up 🏡 More inventory = less bidding war pressure 💸 Tariffs could influence inflation (and future rate decisions) 📊 Why buyers are accepting 6–7% rates as the “new normal” CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How to Make Your Offer as Strong as Possible
06/26/2025
How to Make Your Offer as Strong as Possible
Even as the real estate market begins to shift, homes in southeastern Pennsylvania remain fiercely competitive. If you’re looking to buy, it’s not enough to make a good offer, it needs to be strong. In this episode, Bill shares proven strategies to help your offer rise above the rest. From getting fully underwritten before making an offer to leveraging a $10,000 seller guarantee, these tips give buyers an edge, without added cost or risk. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📄 The one document that speaks louder than pre-approval 💰 What the $10,000 closing guarantee really means for your offer 📍 Why local matters: the power of proximity 🤝 Unconventional terms that may seal the deal CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Does a Larger Down Payment Lower Your Mortgage Rate?
06/19/2025
Does a Larger Down Payment Lower Your Mortgage Rate?
Every homebuyer is looking for ways to get the lowest rate possible on their mortgage, but how much does your down payment impact that number? Today we’ll tell you whether a large down payment will benefit you and explain why the down payment amount might mean more for those with lower credit scores. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💸 Why a Bigger Down Payment Doesn’t Always Mean a Better Rate 📉 When Credit Score Matters More Than Cash 🏚️ The Risk of Putting Too Much Money into the House ✨ How Small Credit Tweaks Can Boost Your Rate Potential ⚖️ 3% vs. 5% Down CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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June Update: Where Mortgage Rates May Be Headed Next
06/12/2025
June Update: Where Mortgage Rates May Be Headed Next
Mortgage markets may not grab headlines, but for buyers, sellers, and homeowners alike, the shifts happening now could mean big financial decisions in the coming months. Interest rates have stayed stubbornly high, but that might be about to change. In this milestone 100th episode, Bill breaks down the latest data, including surprising job numbers and inflation trends, to explain what could be coming for rates, inventory, and buyer leverage. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why mortgage rates may finally drop 📊 The economic indicator that shocked analysts in June 🧾 Our $10k guarantee offer for serious buyers 🏘️ Why national trends don’t reflect every local market 🛑 The biggest mistake people make when “waiting out” the market CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Introducing a New Closing Guarantee to Make Your Home Offer Stronger
06/05/2025
Introducing a New Closing Guarantee to Make Your Home Offer Stronger
In today’s competitive housing market, buyers need every edge they can get, and we’re excited to introduce a new program that we believe is a no-brainer. To help us explain how it all works, we’re excited to welcome on realtor of RE/MAX Town & Country to unveil a new $10,000 Closing Guarantee. You’ll hear how this guarantee works, how it differs from a standard pre-approval, and why it can make your offer stand out, even stronger than cash in some cases. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🧾 How the $10,000 Closing Guarantee actually works 🔍 What makes this program stand out in competitive markets 💡 Why it may be stronger than a cash offer 🏡 How to use this tool alongside other buyer strategies 📣 How to present this to clients Connect with Lorna at RE/MAX Town & Country: CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Quickly Can I Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage?
05/29/2025
How Quickly Can I Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage?
You’ve found your dream house, the one you’ve been hoping for. But there’s one problem: you’re not pre-approved. In a market where homes can go under contract in hours, hesitation can cost you everything. Many buyers assume they can get pre-approved on the fly, but is that realistic? Bill breaks it all down and shares how you can be ready to make the big leap when the time comes. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏠 What happens if you find the house before you're pre-approved 📄 The real difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval 🕒 How pre-approval can happen in under an hour—if you’re ready 📦 What to gather now to avoid last-minute chaos later CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Much Do You Need to Make to Buy a Home in Pennsylvania?
05/22/2025
How Much Do You Need to Make to Buy a Home in Pennsylvania?
Is owning a home still possible for the average family or has it become out of reach? For parents trying to raise kids, build stability, and plan for the future, understanding what it really takes to buy a home is more important than ever. In this episode, we’ll look at new research from Realtor.com showing how much a family of four in Pennsylvania needs to earn to afford a home in today’s market, and that number might not be what you think. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Pennsylvania's affordability compared to neighboring states 🚗 Is a longer commute really worth it? 📊 What debt, credit, and goals mean for approval 🔧 Small mortgage tweaks that make a big difference State-by-State Affordability Analysis: CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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PA Cities Where Home Prices Are Rising the Most
05/15/2025
PA Cities Where Home Prices Are Rising the Most
Home values across the country have been on the rise for the past five years, and Pennsylvania has been outperforming the national average. Today we’re going to dive into eye-opening data on 50 towns across the state, revealing just how much home values have climbed in recent years. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 Rent vs. buy: why ownership still wins 📈 40–60% appreciation in just 5 years? ⏳ Why timing the market may cost you Stacker Article: CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151.
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May Mortgage Update: Applications Rising & Fed Holding Steady
05/08/2025
May Mortgage Update: Applications Rising & Fed Holding Steady
With Fed decisions, mortgage rate fluctuations, and rising buyer interest, May is already shaping up to be a dynamic month. In this month’s market update, Bill shares the latest market trends, including the Fed’s decision to hold rates steady and how mortgage applications continue to rise year over year, even amid economic uncertainty. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏦 Fed holds rates steady — what that means for buyers 📈 Mortgage applications rise despite uncertainty 🏡 Why some are ready to trade 3% rates for lifestyle upgrades 📉 Is a refinancing window coming soon? 🧠 What questions buyers are asking most in May CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Much Do You Really Need to Put Down On a House?
04/24/2025
How Much Do You Really Need to Put Down On a House?
Traditionally, homebuyers have targeted 20% as the ideal down payment but does that still hold true today? We meet with people all the time who want to know how much they need to put down on a home, so let’s look at the current trends nationally and talk about what percentage might be best for you. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Why 68% of our clients are putting less than 20% down 💡 The real deal with PMI (and why it’s not always bad) 🏠 Local down payment trends in Philly vs. high-cost cities 📊 How your money might work harder outside your mortgage CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Should I Buy a Home During a Divorce?
04/17/2025
Should I Buy a Home During a Divorce?
Going through a divorce is incredibly emotional and it brings a lot of uncertainty, especially around housing. Trying to figure out what to do next about where to live is stressful. So what do you need to know if you’re trying to buy a home during or after a divorce? This is a highly sensitive time and we want to help you avoid the common pitfalls and financial surprises that can come with this transition. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: ⚖️ Legal risks of buying a home before your divorce is final 🏠 How property settlement agreements impact your mortgage approval 💡 What “house spouse” vs. “out spouse” means in mortgage terms 💬 Key questions we ask every divorcing client before moving forward 🙋♀️ Why consulting early could save you a second move (and a lot of stress) CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Most Common Mistakes People Make When Refinancing a Home
04/10/2025
Most Common Mistakes People Make When Refinancing a Home
With interest rates fluctuating, many homeowners are considering refinancing, but it’s essential to approach this decision with caution. People often ask us about what they need to know so they can avoid making any mistakes during the process. From paying unnecessary points to chasing misleading online rate quotes, Bill walks through real-life examples and highlights the importance of doing the math before making a move. We’ll explain why it’s critical to understand the full cost-benefit picture and emphasize how working with a knowledgeable, transparent lender can make or break your experience. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 📉 Are you refinancing for the right reasons? 💰 The truth behind "too good to be true" interest rates 🧾 Understanding loan estimates and recoupment periods 🏡 Common missteps first-time buyers make CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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How Tariffs Are Shaping Mortgage Rates This April
04/04/2025
How Tariffs Are Shaping Mortgage Rates This April
It’s time for a much-needed update on the mortgage market for April 2025. With ongoing uncertainties driven by tariffs, inflation, and market volatility, we’ll explain how these factors are impacting mortgage rates and what potential homebuyers and homeowners need to know. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 Increased Inventory: More homes on the market this spring 💸 Tariff Impact: Potential price increases in construction and materials 🛠️ Creative Financing: Temporary buy-downs and ARMs to manage costs 📆 Looking Ahead: Possible rate reductions by end of 2025 if inflation stays controlled CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Is a Lender Credit Worth the Higher Interest Rate?
03/27/2025
Is a Lender Credit Worth the Higher Interest Rate?
Is a lender credit a smart way to save money on your mortgage, or does it cost you more in the long run? In this episode, Bill explains how lender credits work, when they make sense, and when you should avoid them. A lender credit can help cover closing costs, but it comes with a trade-off: a higher interest rate. Bill shares real-life scenarios, including a client who saved $10,000 upfront while only paying an extra $200 per month. He also breaks down who qualifies for lender credits, how loan size, credit score, and financial goals impact your decision, and whether you can refinance after using a lender credit. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 💰 Lender Credit Explained 📊 Higher Interest Rate Trade-Off – Is it worth it? 🏡 When Lender Credits Make Sense ⚠️ Who Qualifies? – Credit score & debt ratio requirements 🔄 Can You Refinance After Using a Lender Credit? 0:00 – Intro 0:46 – How a lender credit works 2:22 – Can anyone get this? 3:23 – When should you? 5:42 – When it doesn’t make sense 7:14 – How quickly can you refinance? CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Moving to a City for 5 Years: Should I Rent or Buy?
03/20/2025
Moving to a City for 5 Years: Should I Rent or Buy?
The decision to rent or buy gets tougher as your time horizon gets shorter. At what point does the pendulum swing from buy to rent? Today we’re going to talk about a specific scenario where someone plans to move to a new city for five years. Would they be better off renting or buying? Bill breaks down the key factors and runs the math to help answer that question. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 Rent vs. Buy? – How to decide what’s best for your financial future 📉 Mortgage Rates & Affordability – Why buying isn’t always the best option 💰 Short-Term vs. Long-Term – The hidden costs of homeownership ⚖️ When Renting Makes More Sense – Understanding break-even points 0:00 – Intro 2:15 – How to approach this situation 4:46 – What timeframe would renting be better? 6:02 – How a lender helps 8:04 – Making a decision CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Strategies for Handling Debt Between Homes
03/13/2025
Strategies for Handling Debt Between Homes
If you're selling a home and planning to use your equity to pay off debt before buying a new home, what’s the best way to handle the transition? In this episode, we’re going to look at the two common scenarios where home sellers need to pay off debt—either by necessity to qualify for a mortgage or by choice to improve their financial situation – and then talk about the options your mortgage lender might provide. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 🏡 Selling & buying? How to handle debt payoff between transactions 💳 What debt should you pay first? The smartest financial approach 💰 Using home equity wisely – Should you pay off loans or invest in your new home? 📊 The impact of debt on mortgage qualification – What lenders consider 0:00 – Intro 1:01 – Liability advisors 2:29 – Closing options 7:00 – Does type of debt matter? 8:50 – How we help CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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March Market Update – Uncertainty & Mortgage Rates
03/06/2025
March Market Update – Uncertainty & Mortgage Rates
Uncertainty is the theme of the month as mortgage rates, economic policies, and market conditions continue to shift. In this episode, Bill provides a timely March market update, breaking down how recent policy changes, employment trends, and inflation rates are shaping the mortgage industry. Here are some key takeaways from the show: 📉 Mortgage rates dropping? Why the trend looks positive for buyers 🏠 Housing inventory & unemployment: How job cuts affect the real estate market 📊 The Fed & inflation: What’s next for interest rates? 💡 Practical strategies: Positioning yourself for smart home financing decisions 0:00 – Intro 1:10 – What is Bill watching in March 3:00 – Layoffs and real estate inventory 4:50 – Mortgage rates CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
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Overrated, Underrated or Rightly Rated in Homebuying
02/27/2025
Overrated, Underrated or Rightly Rated in Homebuying
In this video, we’re going to play lively game of "Overrated, Underrated, or Rightly Rated?" with Bill Litton, regional president at Cross Country Mortgage. Join us as we tackle key concepts that every potential homebuyer should understand. This episode explores various aspects of homebuying, from credit scores to pre-qualifications, real estate agents, and more. Bill shares his insights on what truly matters in the mortgage process, helping you navigate the complexities of home buying with confidence. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:53 – High credit score 2:19 – Prequalification 5:09 – Homeownership 7:25 – Good real estate agent 9:22 – 20% down payment 10:49 – First-time homebuyer programs CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
/episode/index/show/smartmortgage/id/35312670
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What to Know When Applying for a Joint Mortgage?
02/20/2025
What to Know When Applying for a Joint Mortgage?
When it comes to buying a home, many couples assume that applying for a mortgage together is the best route to take. While that might be true for some, some couples are better off going the individual route. Today we’ll take you through the key pillars of a mortgage loan and explain how they’re evaluated in a joint application. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:40 – Credit score 4:15 – Income 6:05 – Debt 7:33 – When joint applications make sense 8:37 – How we help CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
/episode/index/show/smartmortgage/id/35179805
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Should You Disclose Everything During the Pre-Approval Process?
02/13/2025
Should You Disclose Everything During the Pre-Approval Process?
For many prospective homebuyers, the path to homeownership begins with securing a pre-approval, which not only indicates how much you can borrow but also sets the stage for a smoother homebuying experience. Once you’ve been pre-approved, how much information do you need to share with your lender before the closing date arrives? Today we’re going to answer a question about disclosing a major life change and give you insight from the lender’s perspective. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:40 – Today’s question 3:18 – Big expenses before closing 5:50 – Will your lender know? 6:55 – Protecting the buyer 8:26 – Final thoughts CONTACT: Schedule a time to meet with Bill here: Visit the Smart Mortgage Show website for more podcasts, videos and mortgage info: Call: 484-352-4151. Check us out on YouTube:
/episode/index/show/smartmortgage/id/35179120