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.
In May Fannie, Freddie and the FHFA (Federal Housing Finance Agency) which runs Fannie and Freddie released a new form and a new idea to understand the need of First-Generation Homebuyers. A First-Generation Homebuyer is defined as a family who either grew up without parents or with parents that were not financially capable of helping…
Home values expected to rise steadily, though at a slower pace than recent years. An increase in inventory levels could lead to a more balanced market, easing buyer competition.
Rate Reversal Is it time to refiance? Since 1955, the Fed has unwound 86%, on average, of the prior rate hikes during the ensuing rate easing cycle, which we’re entering. This means the Fed funds rate bottoms out at 0.75%. The smallest historical reversal would suggest that Fed funds hits 2.25%. Yet the market is…
Weigh Flexibility vs. Investment: Renting offers flexibility, while buying builds equity and offers tax benefits. Consider Long-Term Stability: Buying is better if you plan to stay in one place for many years.
Fed continues rate hikes to curb inflation, possibly pushing rates above 6.25% to 7%. Rates may stabilize in 2025 as inflation moderates, possibly in the mid-to-high 6% range.
Mortgage rates have decreased for 3 consecutive weeks in June. The decline in mortgage rates may provide some relief for potential homebuyers.
If the job market softens to manage inflation, a rate cut could occur late this year, slightly easing 2024 mortgage rates. Rates could drop below 6.5% by 2025, making homeownership more affordable and stimulating the housing market.
Renting an apartment with bad credit is challenging but possible. Show stable income, consider a co-signer or roommate, and work on improving credit by paying bills on time. Landlords use credit to assess rent payment ability. Offer a larger deposit, get a cosigner, or provide proof of consistent income to make your application more appealing.…
Compare mortgage rates among three to five lenders to maximize potential savings. Consider different mortgage types to find the best rate for your credit and financial situation.
A homestead exemption is a legal provision that helps reduce the amount of property taxes you owe on your primary residence. By applying for this exemption, you can often lower the taxable value of your home, which in turn decreases your property tax bill. The specifics of homestead exemptions can vary depending on the state…
