August 2026: Homeownership Update Is Here

Age alone doesn’t determine whether you can get a home loan. Federal law prohibits lending decisions based on age.

What really matters is your overall financial picture, including your income, credit history, assets, debt, and ability to repay the loan. Whether you’re buying your first home, purchasing after retirement, or refinancing later in life, there are financing options available to fit a variety of situations.

For retirees, income doesn’t have to come from a traditional paycheck. Retirement income, Social Security benefits, investment accounts, and certain asset-based loan programs may all be used to help qualify. Homeowners age 62 and older may wish to explore whether a reverse mortgage aligns with their retirement goals.

Every situation is unique, and the right loan depends on your financial goals, not the number of candles on your birthday cake. If you’re wondering what options may be available for you or a family member our team is here to help you explore them.

Finding a city with strong job opportunities and attainable housing isn’t easy, but a few metro areas are standing out. A recent analysis identified cities where employment growth, rising incomes, housing availability, and home prices are creating better opportunities for millennials and first-time homebuyers.

Leading the list are Austin, Phoenix, Boise, Jacksonville, Raleigh, Charlotte, and Nashville. While these markets aren’t necessarily inexpensive, they’re seeing healthy job growth alongside increased housing development, helping keep homeownership within reach compared to many other major metros.

For anyone considering a move, these cities demonstrate the importance of looking beyond home prices alone. A strong local economy, steady wage growth, and an expanding housing supply can make a significant difference in long-term affordability and financial stability. Whether you’re relocating, buying your first home, or exploring your options in a new market, we can help you understand your financing options and create a plan that fits your goals.

Did you know that millennials make up one of the largest groups of homebuyers today, and many are prioritizing cities that offer career opportunities, growing communities, and attainable housing options. Finding the right market can be just as important as finding the right home.

Moving into a new home is exciting, but feeling connected to a new community can take time. Here are a few simple steps that can help you settle in and feel at home faster.

Start by introducing yourself to your neighbors, whether it’s a quick hello, a friendly wave, or a casual conversation during a walk. Explore local Facebook groups to stay informed about neighborhood events and connect with people who share your interests. Joining a local club, sports league, or volunteer organization is another great way to build relationships and become part of the community. Finally, support local businesses by discovering your favorite coffee shop, restaurant, or park and you’ll quickly start to feel like a local.

A welcoming community starts with small connections, and before long, your new neighborhood will feel like home.

Your home is more than just a place to live; it’s also a valuable financial resource. A HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) allows you to tap into the equity you’ve built over time while keeping your existing mortgage and current interest rate exactly as they are.

Whether you’re looking to update your home, pay off high-interest debt, cover unexpected expenses, or simply have funds available when opportunities arise, a HELOC provides flexible access to the money you need when you need it.

Your home has worked hard for you and now it can work even harder. Reach out today to learn more about how a HELOC can help support your financial goals and give you greater flexibility for life’s next chapter.