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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:
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Rate updates and Federal Reserve insights.
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Guides for FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and Non-QM loans.
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Local market trends from Jacksonville, St. Johns, and across Florida.
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Credit and refinance tips to help you save money.
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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:
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FHA and VA loan guidelines made simple.
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Down payment assistance programs available in Florida.
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Rate trends and Fed updates that affect your payment.
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Home equity strategies and refinance opportunities.
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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.
Florida homeowners face an avg monthly mortgage payment of $2,443. This translates to ~$29,321 paid annually towards the mortgage.
This is a topic that each underwriter and lender likely may have varying opinions on but here is what Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac say about it. What happens when you have a purchase agreement on a home, then the home is inspected and completed and then you have an amendment AFTER the inspection date…
Ensure utilities are on freeze post-purchase to manage energy use during moving. Replace old light bulbs and appliances with energy-efficient ones for long-term savings.
Location & Neighborhood – Proximity to amenities – Safety and community activities – Future development plans – Long-term lifestyle fit – Property value prospects Budget and Financing – Hidden costs, property taxes, insurance – Get quotes from movers – Understand mortgage options – Align financing with situation
In reality Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have not changed their credit score requirements as most people do not know the rules around credit scores with conventional loans which has changed over the past year. If you were to ask a majority of loan officers what is the minimum credit score for conventional loans the answer…
When buying a home, successful negotiation depends on understanding market value, finances, and inspection results. Tips include researching market value, knowing finances, and using a home inspection. Negotiate for price, repairs, warranties, closing costs, and other terms. Consider walking away if terms are unacceptable. Continue to full article
Florida remains a popular retirement destination due to warm weather, lower living costs, and retiree-friendly tax policies. Buying a home in Florida: – Builds equity – Provides stable monthly payments – Enables personalization and investment
Breaking news! Interest rates at pre-pandemic levels, mortgage rates at all-time low, announces Fed. It's a dream come true for homebuyers who have been waiting for the perfect time to enter the market! Dream on… Happy April Fool’s Day!
