Mortgage Q&A
What does a mortgage broker do?
A mortgage broker works on your behalf to shop multiple lenders and loan programs to find the best mortgage for your situation. Instead of being limited to one bank’s products, a broker compares rates, terms, and guidelines across many lenders to help you save money and avoid unnecessary delays.
Read MoreWhat are today’s mortgage rates?
Mortgage rates change daily and are based on your specific scenario—there isn’t a single rate that fits everyone. Your rate is influenced by factors such as: Credit score Loan type (FHA, VA, Conventional, DSCR, etc.) Down payment or equity Property type and occupancy Market conditions that change every day At North Star Mortgage Network Inc.,…
Read MoreWhy work with a broker like North Star Mortgage Network instead of a big bank?
Because choosing a mortgage isn’t just about a rate — it’s about who’s actually working in your best interest. At North Star Mortgage Network Inc., we operate very differently than big banks, credit unions, or online call-center lenders. Here’s the real difference: More loan options – We shop multiple wholesale lenders, not just one bank’s…
Read MoreDo I need Title Insurance?
Yes — title insurance is strongly recommended. When you buy a home, you’re making one of the largest financial investments of your life. Protecting your ownership rights is critical. In most transactions: Lender’s title insurance is required and protects the mortgage lender Owner’s title insurance is optional, but it protects you, the homeowner Owner’s title…
Read MoreI have Student loans. Will they affect my qualifying for a Mortgage?
Yes — student loans can affect your ability to qualify for a mortgage. Even if your student loans are in deferment or forbearance, most mortgage programs still require a monthly payment to be counted in your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. At North Star Mortgage Network Inc., we follow the official guidelines set by FHA, VA, USDA,…
Read MoreWhat do I need to provide to price out a reverse mortgage?
To accurately price a reverse mortgage, we need a few key details. At North Star Mortgage Network Inc., we use this information to determine eligibility, loan amount, and available options—including Jumbo Reverse Mortgages for higher-value homes. To get started, please provide: Name(s) and date(s) of birth (borrowers must be 62 or older) Subject property ZIP…
Read MoreCan I purchase a Primary Residence for a Disabled Child or an Elderly Parent?
Yes — you can purchase a primary residence for a disabled child or elderly parent. At North Star Mortgage Network Inc., this type of purchase may still qualify as owner-occupied, which can mean better interest rates and lower down payment requirements than an investment property. Under Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, a home can…
Read MoreWhat is your interest rate?
Interest rates are not one-size-fits-all. The exact rate depends on several key details about your loan and property. To provide an accurate quote, we’ll need the following information: Purchase price (for a purchase) or current home value (for a refinance) Down payment amount or percentage (purchase) or current loan payoff (refinance) Middle credit score Property…
Read MoreCan I Close a DSCR Loan in an LLC?
Yes — you can close a DSCR loan in an LLC. At North Star Mortgage Network Inc., we allow DSCR loans to close in an LLC for all property types and occupancies, including owner-occupied homes, as long as basic program requirements are met. Many lenders limit LLC ownership to non-owner-occupied investment properties only. We take…
Read MoreShould I Refinance Now or Wait?
If you’re wondering whether to refinance now or wait, you’re not alone. Many Florida homeowners are asking this same question in 2025. The right answer depends on your rate, your goals, and how long you plan to stay in your home. At North Star Mortgage Network in Jacksonville, we guide you through these decisions with…
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