SEARCH BLOGS
North Star Mortgage Network Blog – Florida Mortgage Tips & News
Welcome to the North Star Mortgage Network Blog, where Florida homeowners, buyers, and investors come for honest mortgage advice.
Each article is written to help you make smarter financial decisions. Whether you’re exploring loan options, comparing rates, or watching the real estate market, you’ll find simple explanations and practical tips you can use.
At North Star Mortgage Network, we believe in keeping things clear and personal — no jargon, no confusion, just the truth about what’s happening in Florida’s housing and mortgage world.
What You’ll Find on the North Star Mortgage Network Blog
The North Star Mortgage Network Blog covers everything you need to understand the mortgage process in Florida.
You’ll find:
-
Rate updates and Federal Reserve insights.
-
Guides for FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and Non-QM loans.
-
Local market trends from Jacksonville, St. Johns, and across Florida.
-
Credit and refinance tips to help you save money.
-
Step-by-step explanations for first-time buyers.
We write every post with one goal — to help you feel informed and confident about your mortgage decisions.
For additional lending and housing resources, visit HUD.gov.
Expert Insights You Can Trust
Our blog is led by Nathan Young, founder and president of North Star Mortgage Network. With over 25 years of experience in Florida lending, Nathan brings real-world knowledge and straight talk to every topic.
We break down complex mortgage topics into easy-to-read articles so you can understand how rates, loan programs, and market changes affect you.
From Jacksonville to Miami, we’ve helped thousands of Floridians buy, refinance, and invest with confidence.
Popular Topics
Here are a few of the topics we cover on the North Star Mortgage Network Blog:
-
FHA and VA loan guidelines made simple.
-
Down payment assistance programs available in Florida.
-
Rate trends and Fed updates that affect your payment.
-
Home equity strategies and refinance opportunities.
-
Tips for real estate investors using DSCR and Non-QM loans.
New posts are added weekly, so check back often for updates.
Why Readers Choose the North Star Mortgage Network Blog
Unlike national mortgage blogs, our content is built specifically for Florida homeowners.
We know the local programs, market conditions, and challenges that borrowers face here. Our advice is based on hands-on experience — not national averages.
When you read our blog, you get information that applies directly to your local market and your financial goals.
Subscribe and Stay Updated
Don’t miss the latest insights from the North Star Mortgage Network Blog.
Sign up for our free newsletter to receive new posts, rate updates, and home loan advice straight to your inbox.
Securing a mortgage can feel overwhelming, but having the right Mortgage Documents at hand is a game-changer. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, self-employed, or already own a property, understanding which documents you need can help streamline your approval process. In this blog, we’ll break down the essential documents required for mortgage approval and provide tips…
Finding the right home loan can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and resources, you can navigate the process with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, learning how to shop for a mortgage is crucial. And when you search for a mortgage near me, North Star Mortgage Network stands out…
When it comes to securing a mortgage, choosing the right lender, a Local Lender can make all the difference. While calling a 1-800 number might seem convenient, working with a Local Lender like North Star Mortgage Network and Nathan Young provides a level of service, expertise, and personal touch that big-box lenders simply can’t match.…
At North Star Mortgage Network, we understand the diverse financial profiles of borrowers, especially those transitioning from W2 to 1099 income. Traditional mortgage programs often fail to accommodate the unique income structures of self-employed individuals and independent contractors. That’s why we offer a specialized 1099 Program tailored to meet the needs of these borrowers, providing…
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are a valuable form of compensation that many companies use to reward and retain employees. For individuals looking to qualify for a mortgage, understanding how RSUs function as part of income and how lenders assess them is crucial. What Are Restricted Stock Units? RSUs are similar to quarterly or annual bonuses…
When applying for a mortgage, lenders consider your total income to determine eligibility. If a portion of your income is non-taxable, lenders may “gross up” that income, increasing the effective amount used for qualification. This guide explains how to gross up non-taxable income and the requirements for different loan programs. What is Grossing Up Non-Taxable…
Why Mortgage Information Matters In today’s ever-changing housing market, having access to accurate and up-to-date mortgage information is crucial. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or looking to refinance, understanding loan options, interest rates, and qualification requirements can help you make informed decisions. At North Star Mortgage Network, we provide the insights and guidance…
Maximize Income with Blended Income Sources At North Star Mortgage Network, we understand that every borrower has a unique financial situation. That’s why we specialize in blending multiple income sources to determine the highest and best income for your customers. Our exception-based approach ensures that you can qualify more clients, close more deals, and grow…
Are you looking to buy a home but struggling with the upfront costs? The Florida Bond Down Payment Assistance Program can help make homeownership a reality by providing financial support for eligible first-time homebuyers. What is the Florida Bond Down Payment Assistance Program? The Florida Housing Homebuyer Program offers a 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage loan…
One of the most common questions homebuyers ask is whether they can use gift funds for their down payment. The good news is, yes, you can! However, there are specific guidelines and documentation requirements to ensure compliance with mortgage regulations. At North Star Mortgage Network, we are here to help guide you through the process…









