Watch & Learn
Buying a home doesn't have to be scary. Watch Tasha and the team share wisdom about the process so you know exactly what to expect.
between renters and homeowners
$390K is the Average Wealth Gap
The numbers tell a clear story: homeownership continues to be a key driver of wealth creation across generations. As property values appreciate over time, homeowners build equity and financial security that can benefit them for years to come.
Did you know?
Source
Today's housing market presents unique challenges. Recent research shows how many NextGen homebuyers are feeling:
Survey Says...
cite high cost of living as their biggest barrier to buying a home.
63%
aren't confident homeownership will be accessible to future generations.
>50%
feel highly stressed about their finances.
33%
cite lack of financial knowledge as a barrier to buying a home.
20%
Source: NextGen Homebuyer Report 2024
Knowledge is power. Dive into our video vault to boost your confidence and master the homebuying process at your own pace.
your on-demand education hub
videos
homeownership
you will learn theSE main points
Here's where you can go into depth about your service or give it a little summary about what you offer right here. Here's where you can go into depth about your service or give it a little summary about what you offer right here.
Benefits of
How building equity creates long-term wealth: As your home's value increases over time, your wealth grows automatically. Unlike rent payments that disappear forever.
Tax advantages of homeownership: Discover potential tax deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes that can lower your annual tax bill.
Ways to build generational wealth through real estate:
Homeownership can create a financial legacy for your family. Owning a home can provide opportunities to help your family.
mortgage
you will learn theSE main points
Getting a mortgage doesn't have to be overwhelming. This video walks you through the application process in clear, simple terms, so you know exactly what to expect. We take the mystery out of mortgage approval by showing you:
Applying for a
What lenders look for in your application: Understanding the key factors of credit, income, assets, and debt that determine your approval.
How to gather your documentation like a pro: Get a checklist of required paperwork, from tax docs to bank statements, plus tips on organizing everything to make the process smoother.
Timeline expectations and milestones: Learn the typical steps from application to closing, including what happens at each stage and how to avoid common delays.
Realtor
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A skilled realtor is your greatest ally in the homebuying journey, bringing expertise that can save you time, money, and stress. This video shows you how the right agent becomes an invaluable partner.
Why work with a
Unlocking access to more opportunities: Your agent's market knowledge and network may help you find properties before they're listed, plus gain insights into upcoming listings.
Guiding you through critical decisions: From crafting competitive offers to negotiating repairs, your agent ensures you don't leave money on the table.
Protecting your interests every step of the way: Your agent serves as your advocate throughout the entire process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is handled properly.
vs. FHA
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Understanding the difference between FHA and conventional loans can open up more paths to homeownership. This video breaks down these two popular loan options to help you choose the best fit for you.
CONVENTIONAL
Down payment flexibility: FHA loans can get you into a home with as little as 3.5% down, while conventional loans typically start at 3% down but may require more.
Credit score requirements: Discover why FHA loans can be more lenient with credit scores, while conventional loans typically need higher scores but may offer better terms.
Long-term cost comparison: Understand how mortgage insurance works differently for each loan type, and see how your choice impacts your monthly payment.
RATE CAP?
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When building a new home, construction timelines often extend well beyond traditional rate lock periods. Our builder rate cap program offers unique extended rate protection that aligns with your construction schedule. Learn more below.
WHAT'S A BUILDER
Lock your rate for up to 360 days: Get significantly longer protection than traditional rate locks, with flexible options for 120, 180, or even 360-day locks to match your build timeline.
Shield yourself from market changes: Your locked rate stays the same even if market rates increase during construction, protecting your purchasing power and monthly payment.
Improved Financial Well-being: Enhance your overall financial well-being by developing effective money management skills, building wealth.
Personal accounts
The most common sources include checking and savings accounts, investment or money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs).
Let's talk about down payment options
Wondering where your down payment will come from? There are several acceptable sources you can use to fund your home purchase. Here are some of the most common options:
Alternative financial sources
This might include liquidating stocks or other investments, taking a loan from your 401(k), or borrowing against other assets through a secured line of credit.
real estate proceeds
If you currently own property, you can use the proceeds from selling your home or other investment properties to fund your new purchase.
Gift funds from close relatives
These can come from parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, or uncles – but they must be truly gifted, with no expectation of repayment.
FAQS
What should I do first?
Getting pre-approved early puts you in the strongest position. You'll know exactly what you can afford, spot any issues to address, and be ready to act fast when you find your dream home. Whether you're buying next week or next year, starting now gives you more options.
What information do you need from me?
We'll look at four key areas: your credit score, income, employment background, and down payment. Have a special situation? From non-traditional income to jumbo loans, we've helped buyers just like you succeed.
What mortgage rate can I get right now?
Since rates change daily – even hourly – the best way to know your rate is to get pre-approved. We'll work to find you the lowest rate for your specific situation.
What is down payment assistance?
Down payment assistance can potentially save you thousands of dollars by reducing the amount you need to save for a down payment. If you’d like to become a homeowner sooner rather than later, look for a lender that offers assistance with down payment programs.
Have you helped buyers like me before?
Whether you're buying your first home, using VA benefits, have unique income, or investing in property – we've been there. Begin your pre-approval, and we'll map out your personalized solution.
Should I wait for lower rates to buy?
The right time to buy is when you're ready. We have tools like Rate Buydowns to reduce your payments now, and we'll help you refinance when rates drop. Find your perfect home, and we'll make the numbers work.
Tasha Hastings
I put the 'Hastings' in the Hastings Team. With more than ten years of experience as a mortgage professional, my approach goes far beyond finding the most competitive rate; I work hard to provide every client with a customized strategy that align with their unique goals.
I provide straightforward guidance and creative solutions to ensure a smooth closing. I believe that finding the right mortgage advisor is even more valuable than negotiating the best rate, which is why I focus on building lasting relationships with my clients.
When I'm away from the office, you'll most likely find me cheering on my kids at soccer and dance, enjoying country music concerts, or hanging out at the lake.
Here's a little about me
I'm Tasha, Nice to Meet You
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Meet the team
Stephanie McDowell
As an Originating Loan Officer Assistant on the Hastings Team, I bring over six years of expertise to helping clients achieve their homeownership dreams.
I understand how complex the homebuying process can be, which is why I work hard to ensure every client receives personalized attention and expert guidance throughout the process.
When I'm not in the office, I love spending time with my husband and two sons. I'm also a devoted fan of "Friends" and can recite nearly every episode from memory – an attention to detail that serves me well in both my personal and professional life.
Here's a little about me
I'M Stephanie, nice to meet you
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Meet the team
Aracely Martinez
I've dedicated my career to ensuring seamless home loan experiences for our clients. My journey began working alongside Debbie Secord, Tasha's mom. What began as a career has turned into family.
As the team's Loan Manager, I work diligently behind the scenes to keep every loan on track. After two decades in the business, I've encountered virtually every loan scenario imaginable and can recite mortgage guidelines in my sleep. This expertise allows me to anticipate and address potential challenges before they arise.
I married my high school sweetheart and together we have four children. They keep us busy - there's never a dull moment in our home.
Here's a little about me
I'M Aracely, nice to meet you
Apply for a loan
Schedule a Meeting
Meet the team
Join our refi watchlist
Waiting for rates to drop? We'll alert you when refinancing your mortgage will actually save you money. No daily rate checking. No complex calculations. Just a simple alert when the time is right for your specific loan. Get peace of mind knowing you'll never miss out on savings.
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