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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:

  • 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.

Freddie Mac announces $2,500 credit for down payment assistance for very low-income families

February 13, 2024
down payment assistance

Prospective homebuyers who earn 50% of their area median income or less are now eligible for a $2,500 credit they can put toward a down payment or other closing costs, Freddie Mac recently announced down payment assistance. The credit is available to buyers using Freddie Mac’s Home Possible mortgage product or the HFA Advantage program. Both these programs are designed…

Mortgage rates latest – what’s keeping them in check?

February 9, 2024
Mortgage Rates

Experts predict stability through spring, with potential rate cuts by summer Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey reveals a steady mortgage landscape, with the average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) slightly increasing to 6.64% as of February 8. This minor change follows a period of stability in mortgage rates, reflecting broader economic…

MANUAL UNDERWRITING

February 8, 2024
MANUAL UNDERWRITING

Manual mortgage underwriting refers to the process of evaluating a mortgage application without solely relying on automated systems or algorithms. In manual underwriting, a human underwriter carefully assesses the borrower’s financial situation, credit history, income, assets, and other relevant factors to determine their eligibility for a mortgage loan. This process involves a thorough review of…

PART TIME EMPLOYMENT

February 6, 2024
PART TIME EMPLOYMENT

Part time employment does not automatically require one or two years as many may think. There is a difference between part time employment and second job employment although many of the guidelines lump them into the same category which can cause confusion. A second job is of course when you have a primary employment and…

Trigger leads – how borrowers can opt out

February 6, 2024
Trigger leads

Rather than wait for legislation, borrowers can simply opt out of sales calls better know as Trigger Leads. Applying for mortgage preapproval can be the exciting start of a journey toward homeownership. The problem is that a borrower’s credit information is then sold, leading to a flood of calls and texts from businesses trying to…

Using tax refund for down payment on a home.

February 5, 2024
using tax refund for down payment on a home

Using a tax refund for a down payment on a home can be a wise financial decision for some individuals. Here are some considerations: Boosting Down Payment Amount: A tax refund can significantly boost your available funds for a down payment. A larger down payment may lead to better mortgage terms, lower monthly payments, and…

Understanding the VA Tidewater Appraisal Process

February 5, 2024
Understanding the VA Tidewater Appraisal Process

If you’re looking to purchase a home using a VA loan, it’s important to understand the VA Tidewater appraisal process. This appraisal process is designed to protect both the veteran borrower and the lender, ensuring that the home being purchased meets the sale price.  The VA Tidewater appraisal process is triggered when the appraiser determines that…

Fed announces first rate decision of 2024

January 31, 2024
Mortgage Rates

rate decision of 2024

What Are 2024 Costs of Mortgage Refinancing?

January 25, 2024

The avg closing cost for mortgage refinancing in the US is $4,345, varying by lender and location. 8 Avg Refinance Fees: 1.Mortgage application: $235 2. Appraisal: $480 3. Loan origination: 1% of Loan Principal 4. Inspection: $255

Tips For Making a Mortgage Process Smooth

January 24, 2024
Smooth Mortgage Process

The process of obtaining a home loan is lengthy and can be confusing. Knowing what you should and shouldn’t be doing during this time might feel overwhelming and impossible, so work with someone who really knows their stuff . Work with me and I’ll guide you through every step of the process. Here are some…