The Blog

Big changes are shaking up the mortgage world—and they’re great news for aspiring homeowners. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will now accept VantageScore 4.0, a modern credit scoring model that gives credit where credit is due. This update opens the door for more buyers, especially those with limited or nontraditional credit histories, by factoring in on-time payments like rent, utilities, and phone bills. In this post, we break down what VantageScore 4.0 is, how it compares to older models, and why this move—backed by the National Association of REALTORS®—could help thousands more people qualify for a mortgage. More fairness. More opportunity. More keys in more hands. Read the full post to see how this change could bring you one step closer to homeownership.

Proper ID is essential at closing to prevent fraud, verify identity, and meet legal requirements. Bring valid, unexpired photo ID—ask ahead to avoid delays.

Real estate investing can be approached through on-market or off-market strategies. On-market investing involves properties listed on platforms like the MLS, offering broad selection, transparency, and easier financing—but comes with more competition and time constraints. Off-market investing targets unlisted properties found through networking or direct outreach, offering less competition, potential for better deals, and greater creative flexibility—but with limited inventory, information challenges, and higher risk. Each approach has pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and strategy.