Latest Articles
First-Time Buyer Playbook: From Pre-Approval to Clear-to-Close
Your step-by-step guide to buying your first home: pre-approval, house hunting, underwriting, and getting to closing day.
Manufactured Homes & Condos: Approvals, HOAs & Appraisals
Manufactured homes and condos have unique approval requirements. Here's what lenders look for in HOAs, appraisals, and project approval.
Renovation Loans: Finance the House and the Project
Buy a fixer-upper and renovate with one loan. Compare FHA 203(k) and Conventional HomeStyle loans to finance your dream home.
DSCR for Small Multifamily (2–4 Units): Vacancy, Leases & DSCR Math
Financing 2–4 unit properties with DSCR loans? Understand vacancy factors, lease requirements, and how lenders calculate your debt service coverage.
Bank Statement Mortgage: How Lenders Calculate Income (2026 Guide)
Self-employed? Here's exactly how bank statement mortgage lenders calculate your qualifying income—12 vs 24 months, expense factors, P&L options, what deposits count, and how to model your payment.
HELOC vs. Fixed Second vs. Cash-Out: Pick the Right Equity Tool
Three ways to tap home equity: HELOC flexibility, fixed-rate seconds, or cash-out refinancing. Which fits your goals?
FHA vs. Conventional in 2026 for 620–699 FICO
Credit scores between 620–699? Compare FHA and Conventional loans to see which path saves money and fits your timeline.
VA Zero-Down: Residual Income, Entitlement & Closing-Cost Strategy
VA loans offer zero-down financing, but residual income and entitlement limits matter. Here's how to navigate VA requirements and closing costs.
Down Payment Assistance 101: Grants vs. Second-Liens vs. Gifts
Down payment help explained—grants vs. repayable seconds, who qualifies, and how to compare options (no hype, just facts).
Investor HELOC vs. HELOAN vs. Cash-Out Refi: The 2026 Playbook
Which lever should investors pull in 2026—HELOC, HELOAN, or cash-out refi? A clear, lender-agnostic playbook to preserve low first liens, control payments, and fund the next deal.
DSCR Loans for Short-Term Rentals: What Investors Need to Know in 2026
Learn how DSCR loans work for Airbnb/VRBO properties, including income calculation methods, DSCR requirements, and common overlays that can make or break your deal.
Asset-Depletion Loans: How Investors Qualify Using Their Assets Instead of Income
Learn how asset-depletion loans help investors qualify for mortgages using their assets instead of taxable income. Perfect for investors, retirees, and business owners with low reported income.
Fix & Flip Loans 101: How to Finance, Rehab, and Profit Like a Pro
Learn how Rockhouse Mortgage helps investors finance fix & flip projects — from purchase to profit — with fast closings and flexible terms.
How to Qualify for an Investment Property Loan: The Basics
Learn the key qualification requirements for investment property loans, including credit scores, down payments, DTI vs. DSCR financing options, and tips to improve your approval odds.
DSCR Loans for Rental Property Investors: How to Qualify Without W-2 Income
Learn how real estate investors can use DSCR loans to qualify for rental property financing without W-2 income or tax returns. Fast, flexible, and ideal for LLCs.
NAR Settlement: What You Need to Know
Understanding the recent National Association of Realtors settlement and its impact on the real estate industry, including changes to MLS compensation and buyer agreements.
Unlocking Home Equity: Understand and Leverage Your Home's Value
A comprehensive guide to understanding home equity, its benefits, and how to leverage it effectively for loan consolidation and home improvements.
Understanding Mortgage Loans: A Comprehensive Guide
A detailed guide explaining different types of mortgage loans, how to choose the right one, and common terms you need to know.
The Impact of Credit Scores on Rates & Strategies for Improvement
Understand how credit scores affect mortgage rates and learn effective strategies to improve your creditworthiness for better loan terms.
The Hidden Costs of Homeownership: Budgeting Beyond the Mortgage
Essential guide to understanding and planning for the additional costs of homeownership beyond your monthly mortgage payment.
Mortgage Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction
Discover the truth behind common mortgage misconceptions and learn how working with a broker can help you make informed decisions.
Demystifying Mortgage Brokers: How To Find The Best Home Mortgage
Learn how to choose the right mortgage broker and unlock the benefits of working with a local expert who can guide you through the home buying process.
The Do's and Don'ts of Mortgage Loan Applications
A comprehensive guide to the mortgage application process, including essential documents, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for improving your credit score.