Mortgage Loan Limits Increased! Conventional Mortgage Loans now have a limit of $453,100 (loan limits vary by counties.) Effective immediately, the new amount raises the previous loan limit by 6.84%. This is great news for homebuyers who now have more flexibility when choosing a new home! Contact me for more details.
"One of the most important lessons we've learned in living through this pandemic is that work-life fit lies in an authentic commitment to communication, flexible thinking, connection and respect." Read more about these work-life balance best practices.
HBR.ORG
4 Strengths of Family-Friendly Work Cultures
One of the biggest challenges we continue to face during the pandemic is how to maintain and foster connections with our communities. Here are several ideas on how you can better connect with--and help--those in need in your community.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
Strengthening Community Connections Amid the Coronavirus
Happy #GrandparentsDay!
Today we pause to honor those that lost their lives on 9/11. #NeverForget
Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day. You've earned it!
Have you visited my new webpage yet? Click the link below and check out all of the new features that can help you with the homebuying journey.
SWBCMORTGAGE.COM
Kelli Broadbent | SWBC Mortgage
Friends, I have a brand-new webpage that I would love for you to check out! There are some great resources on the homebuying process, along with an easier way to begin your mortgage application process. Take a look and let me know what you think!
SWBCMORTGAGE.COM
Kelli Broadbent | SWBC Mortgage
From decorating your "Zoom Room" to creating more storage in unexpected places, 2020 has had a profound impact on home improvements and decor. Learn more about the emerging trends that are making homes more livable this year.
APARTMENTTHERAPY.COM
16 Home Decor Trends that are Going to Rule the Rest of 2020, According to Designers
Human-resources professionals report that maintaining employee morale is their most difficult Covid-19 workplace issue. Learn how managers can better identify employee malaise and improve morale, especially as working at home is the only option. #makethemost
WSJ.COM
Battling Pandemic Blues: How Managers Can Rally the Troops
Warm congratulations to our own Susan Stewart, CEO of SWBC Mortgage, who has been sworn in as the new Chair of the Mortgage Bankers Association! We're all very proud of Susan and her ongoing accomplishments as a terrific leader for our company and as a leading voice for the mortgage industry! #MBAAnnual2020
https://swb.us/2T8jzIt
Halloween is a beloved holiday by children and adults alike. But this year, it's even more important to play it safe given the ongoing challenges of COVID. Here is some valuable advice so you and your children can still have fun this weekend.
HALLOWEEN2020.ORG
Halloween 2020 | Like We've Never Seen
Put SWBC Mortgage to the test. Even if you have already spoken to another lender, call us for an apples-to-apples loan comparison. We can help ensure clients receive the right financing for your situation. This is a complimentary service so there’s nothing to lose—and only the straight facts to gain. Contact me today to start the process.
Just a friendly #DayLightSavings reminder:
Wishing you a very scary #Halloween!
Serving America means ‘honor and duty’ to Senior Loan Officer CJ Wyatt, as SWBC Mortgage continues to salute our veteran employees and all of those who unselfishly have served our country. #veteransday
“My military service is the foundation for the person I am today,” states Lee Barroll, U.S. Army veteran, as SWBC Mortgage continues this week to honor the service and sacrifice of our nation's veterans and active duty military members. #veteransday
“Proud to have served in a brotherhood that few who don’t serve would understand. One flag, one land, one heart, one nation….ever more!,” states SWBC Mortgage’s Jimmy Alexander, who is still serving the military community as our assistant branch manager and senior loan officer in Temple and Killeen, Texas. Jimmy works closely with active duty and retired veterans including those who serve at Ft. Hood, the most populous U.S. military installation in the world. #veteransday
SWBC Mortgage honors one of our newest veteran employees, Blair Gonzales, who states, “Serving in the military means sacrifice for those you love, and upholding a standard of honor and integrity in all that you do.” #veteransday
If you know a veteran, make sure you take time today to thank them for their service. Happy #VeteransDay!
As we continue to deal with the pandemic, here comes the beginning of the annual cold and flu season. Read more on how to ensure your home cleaning routines are effective this winter.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
Stay Vigilant with these Home Cleaning and Disinfecting Tips
We’re thankful for all of you! Happy #Thanksgiving!
Announcing FHFA Loan Limit INCREASES for 2021! This gives you more options in choosing your dream home. New Conforming Loan Limits for one-unit dwellings will increase to $548,250 in 2021. At SWBC Mortgage, we can offer these new loan limits immediately, so contact me today to learn more about what this could mean for you.
Announcing FHFA High Balance Loan Limit INCREASES for 2021! If you live in a high-cost area, this gives you more options in choosing your dream home. High Balance Conforming Loan Limits are increasing to $822,375 Contact me today for the specific loan limits in your market and what this means for your potential buying power. At SWBC Mortgage, we can offer these new loan limits immediately, so contact me today to learn more about what this could mean for you!
New FHA loan limits have been announced, which gives you more options when choosing your dream home. Beginning in 2021, FHA's nationwide forward mortgage limits "floor" and "ceiling" for a one-unit property are $356,362 and $822,375, respectively. Loan Limits vary by County and MSA, so contact me today for more information!
As the economy is expected to rebound in 2021, the overall housing market will remain strong, according to a recent realtor.com® analysis. Read more on the top ten cities where buyers can actually get more for their money, including some surprising smaller cities that are affordable alternatives for 2021.
REALTOR.COM
The Top 10 Housing Markets of 2021—Who Made the List?
If you are temporarily (or permanently) working at home, how you set up your office space can have a significant impact on your health. Learn the tips for maintaining good posture and other ergonomics to ensure your comfort when working at home.
NEWSNETWORK.MAYOCLINIC.ORG
Home office ergonomics tips
As we gladly say goodbye to 2020 and welcome 2021, don't forget to take some important financial planning steps. Many important actions must be done before the year is over so you can reap tax and other benefits next year.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
Start 2021 off Right with this Year-End Financial To-Do List
Best wishes from the SWBC family this holiday season! How does your family celebrate the holidays?
With interest rates at historic lows, combined with a high level of motivated sellers, and the pent-up demand of home buyers, this may be an ideal time to consider purchasing a new home. Follow along in our series of five posts as we help you answer the question “Is now a good time to buy?
#1: Determine which government-backed loan programs are still available. Because of the rapid changes in the market, some programs are on hold, and others may still be available. Many states and counties also offer loans with down payment assistance and homebuyer education. Contact me today to find out more about loan programs currently available to you.
We continue to help answer the question “Is now a good time to buy?” with point #3: You may be able to take advantage of historically-low interest rates.
Homebuyers continue to be enticed by some of the lowest mortgage interest rates on record. Lower rates and lower monthly payments can make owning a home a reality for many borrowers, but it’s important to find out what rates are available to you. Contact me today to learn more about beginning the loan process in today’s low-rate environment.
SWBC Mortgage continues to provide resources and posts to guide your homebuying journey. Preapproval is #2 in our series that answers the question “Is now a good time to buy?”
Getting preapproved is great way to get a picture of your current financial status with no requirement to purchase a home or use a particular loan program. A preapproval helps all homeowners get better prepared for their house search. I can help you begin the preapproval process, so contact me today!
Happy #NewYear! What are some of your goals for 2021?
Improving personal finances is an always-popular New Year’s resolution. If spending less and saving more is on your 2021 list, learn how to set and meet realistic financial goals.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
5 Ways to Make Your Financial New Year’s Resolutions Stick
Here is our final answer to the question, “Is now a good time to buy?" #5: Depending on your situation, a government-backed mortgage may be the ideal loan for you to get into a new home. These options may include VA, FHA, and Affordable Housing Programs, as well as conventional loans with lower down payments. Call me today to learn more!
Wishing you and yours a joyous holiday season!
Is now a good time to buy? Point #4: Market conditions are surprisingly good for sellers in many areas of the country. So, if you are looking to sell your current home and move elsewhere, the timing might be beneficial depending on where you live. Call me to learn more about market conditions in your area!
Homebuying Step 3 of 7: Next, you can apply online in minutes using our TurnKey® application, a simple and secure process that will guide you through this process. Once you begin your application, TurnKey will securely save your information, and you can then complete the process at any time.
Homebuying Step 2 of 7: Once preapproved, you will work with your real estate agent to find your dream home, negotiate and execute a purchase agreement.
Our employees are happy working at SWBC Mortgage because they're connected and valued. In fact, we were ranked one of the top ten best companies to work for by the Mortgage Executive Magazine! Begin your journey with SWBC Mortgage and find out what it means to love where you work. https://www.swbcmortgage.com/grow-with-swbc
Join us to celebrate the life and legacy of a man who brought hope and healing to America - Martin Luther King Jr. #MLK
Home improvements have become more popular than ever as we continue to hunker down in our homes. Learn how to improve everyone's favorite room on a realistic budget. #makethemost
BLOG.SWBC.COM
5 Ideas for Remodeling Your Kitchen Without Breaking the Bank
Homebuying Step 6 of 7: Before we can close on your home loan, we ensure all underwriting conditions have been met, then finalize all loan requirements. By this time, you will know the exact amount of funds you’ll need to provide. We will also inform you of the date and time for your closing, usually scheduled with the title company.
Want to improve the look and feel of your work-at-home video conference calls? Learn how a little decor and organization can have a big impact on your virtual workspace. #makethemost
REALTOR.COM
What Is a Zoom Room? 5 Tips for Creating One in Your Home Now
Homebuying Step 5 of 7: During this stage, our underwriter will review all of your documents, including the appraisal report, then provide an approval decision. The underwriter will also indicate any additional conditions that may be necessary for you to get loan approval.
Homebuying Step 4 of 7: After your home is under contract, we will order an appraisal, then your application will be managed be a loan processor. They will help you determine what supporting documentation will be needed to help you qualify for your new home loan.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced that individuals classified as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) can now obtain FHA financing. These individuals are now eligible for an FHA mortgage under non-permanent resident alien guidelines. If this applies to you, contact me today to learn more about your options for homeownership.
SWBC Mortgage is proud to honor Black History Month. Learn more about the origins of this annual remembrance, and watch for more posts that celebrate the individuals that have had a lasting impact on Black History in America. #BlackHistoryMonth
Ever wonder how your credit score is actually determined? Learn more about your number, and what factors can help or hurt your score.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
How Does Your Credit Score Stack Up?
Homebuying Step 7 of 7: After you have reviewed the final numbers in your Closing Disclosure, you execute and sign all of your loan documents. Congratulations, homeowner! This is the last step to finding the happiest way to your new home!
From growing up in poverty in Mississippi, to building a global media empire, Oprah Winfrey is one of the world’s most influential—and wealthiest—women. She has also been ranked as the greatest black philanthropist in American history by Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Oprah has become a role model and inspiration to people of all walks of life. Find out more about The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, and how you can get involved in supporting her initiatives including education, food insecurity, and more. #BlackHistoryMonth
OPRAHFOUNDATION.ORG
Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation -
New Review!
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month – Did You Know? The origins of Black History Month date back to 1915? And the exact month was selected for three historical reasons: February 1 is National Freedom Day, the anniversary of the approval of the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in 1865. Plus, the month coincides with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass, a famed abolitionist, and President Abraham Lincoln, who signed the emancipation proclamation. Learn more about Carter G. Woodson, the driving force behind the establishment of this annual and important historical annual celebration. #BlackHistoryMonth
ASALH.ORG
ASALH - The Founders of Black History Month | Origins of Black History Month
New Review!
New Review!
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month—The National Museum of African American Music recently opened in Nashville after 22 years of planning. The new facility includes six interactive sections, and represents 50 genres of music, including gospel, jazz, rhythm and blues, and hip-hop. Read more about this innovative new facility here. #BlackHistoryMonth
NMAAM.ORG
History - National Museum of African American Music
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month—Trailblazers: As NASA prepares to return astronauts to the moon, take a moment to remember the groundbreaking work of Katherine Johnson, the African American mathematician and scientist whose life story was depicted in the film Hidden Figures. Johnson, who died last year at age 101, was one of the first black women hired by the space agency. She quickly became an invaluable "human computer" doing complex calculations for numerous missions, including the historic first moon landing in 1969 #BlackHistoryMonth
NASA.GOV
Katherine Johnson Biography
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month—By The Numbers: For over 150 years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have graduated thousands of individuals who have impacted their communities, the nation, and the world. Learn more about America's 107 HBCUs, including stories featuring some of the most famous grads from across all walks of life. #BlackHistoryMonth
THEHUNDRED-SEVEN.ORG
HBCU Legends- Achievers in every field
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month—By The Numbers: For over 150 years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have graduated thousands of individuals who have impacted their communities, the nation, and the world. Learn more about America's 107 HBCUs, including stories featuring some of the most famous grads from across all walks of life. #BlackHistoryMonth
THEHUNDRED-SEVEN.ORG
HBCU Legends- Achievers in every field
From growing up in poverty in Mississippi, to building a global media empire, Oprah Winfrey is one of the world’s most influential—and wealthiest—women. She has also been ranked as the greatest black philanthropist in American history by Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Oprah has become a role model and inspiration to people of all walks of life. Find out more about The Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, and how you can get involved in supporting her initiatives including education, food insecurity, and more. #BlackHistoryMonth
OPRAHFOUNDATION.ORG
Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation -
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month —Trailblazers—Philadelphia's Joseph V. Baker (1908-1993) was the first black owner of a public relations firm, and gained national prominence working with top corporations including DuPont, U.S. Steel, Chrysler, Gillette, and Procter & Gamble. He was also the first African American to earn accreditation from the PR Society of America (PRSA) while becoming a role model for minorities seeking a career path in corporate communications. #BlackHistoryMonth
PRNEWSONLINE.COM
Joseph V. Baker: America's First Black PR Firm Owner
New Review!
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month—Trailblazers—“I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot...and missed. I've failed over, and repeatedly in my life. And that is why I succeed,” says Hall of Famer Michael Jordan. Considered perhaps the greatest player in NBA history, Jordan still has numerous endorsement contracts 17 years after hanging up his eponymous hightops. And as one of the nation’s wealthiest billionaires, his generous philanthropy has been as impressive as his on-court successes. #BlackHistoryMonth
NBA.COM
Michael Jordan’s philanthropic activities | NBA.com
Happy #PresidentsDay!
Hope your day is filled with the sweetest treats! #ValentinesDay
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month–Trailblazers: “Life is not a spectator sport. If you’re going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion, you’re wasting your life,” said Jackie Robinson. Perhaps no other athlete had a more profound impact on sports than the all-star second basemen who broke the major league color bar. Baseball has permanently retired number 42 for all players. And, on April 15 every season, all team members—even the umpires—wear number 42, to commemorate Opening Day 1947, Robinson’s first game in the majors. #BlackHistoryMonth
BASEBALLHALL.ORG
Jackie Robinson
When pandemics sweep through societies, they upend critical structures, such as health systems and medical treatments, economic life, communities, and everyday family life. Read the interesting new report from the Pew Research Center and Elon University on the potential changes and challenges we may experience expect after the COVID-19 outbreak subsides.
PEWRESEARCH.ORG
Experts Say the ‘New Normal’ in 2025 Will Be Far More Tech-Driven, Presenting More Big Challenges
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month —Trailblazers—Philadelphia's Joseph V. Baker (1908-1993) was the first black owner of a public relations firm, and gained national prominence working with top corporations including DuPont, U.S. Steel, Chrysler, Gillette, and Procter & Gamble. He was also the first African American to earn accreditation from the PR Society of America (PRSA) while becoming a role model for minorities seeking a career path in corporate communications. #BlackHistoryMonth
PRNEWSONLINE.COM
Joseph V. Baker: America's First Black PR Firm Owner
New Review!
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month—Trailblazers—“I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot...and missed. I've failed over, and repeatedly in my life. And that is why I succeed,” says Hall of Famer Michael Jordan. Considered perhaps the greatest player in NBA history, Jordan still has numerous endorsement contracts 17 years after hanging up his eponymous hightops. And as one of the nation’s wealthiest billionaires, his generous philanthropy has been as impressive as his on-court successes. #BlackHistoryMonth
NBA.COM
Michael Jordan’s philanthropic activities | NBA.com
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month—By The Numbers: George Washington Carver, the trailblazing black American botanist and inventor, created over 100 products derived from peanuts. Among his many discoveries were plant-based cosmetics, paints, plastics, and alternative fuels. Watch this video to learn more about his life and vast contributions to science and industry. #blackhistorymonth
YOUTUBE.COM
George Washington Carver | The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month–Did You Know? There have been 16 black recipients of the Nobel Prize, including four African Americans. In 1950, Ralph Bunch was the very first black individual to win the prestigious award. Bunch served an influential role in mediating world affairs, from the Middle East to the Civil Rights Movement. Read more about Bunch and the other influential black Nobel Prize winners throughout history. #BlackHistoryMonth
WORLDATLAS.COM
Black Nobel Prize Winners
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month–Trailblazers: “Life is not a spectator sport. If you’re going to spend your whole life in the grandstand just watching what goes on, in my opinion, you’re wasting your life,” said Jackie Robinson. Perhaps no other athlete had a more profound impact on sports than the all-star second basemen who broke the major league color bar. Baseball has permanently retired number 42 for all players. And, on April 15 every season, all team members—even the umpires—wear number 42, to commemorate Opening Day 1947, Robinson’s first game in the majors. #BlackHistoryMonth
BASEBALLHALL.ORG
Jackie Robinson
When pandemics sweep through societies, they upend critical structures, such as health systems and medical treatments, economic life, communities, and everyday family life. Read the interesting new report from the Pew Research Center and Elon University on the potential changes and challenges we may experience expect after the COVID-19 outbreak subsides.
PEWRESEARCH.ORG
Experts Say the ‘New Normal’ in 2025 Will Be Far More Tech-Driven, Presenting More Big Challenges
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month —Trailblazers—Philadelphia's Joseph V. Baker (1908-1993) was the first black owner of a public relations firm, and gained national prominence working with top corporations including DuPont, U.S. Steel, Chrysler, Gillette, and Procter & Gamble. He was also the first African American to earn accreditation from the PR Society of America (PRSA) while becoming a role model for minorities seeking a career path in corporate communications. #BlackHistoryMonth
PRNEWSONLINE.COM
Joseph V. Baker: America's First Black PR Firm Owner
SWBC Mortgage has placed in the top five list of 'Best Large Mortgage Companies to Work For' by National Mortgage News! For the third straight year, SWBC Mortgage has been recognized as one of the industry's leading employers and places to work. Interested in joining a leader? Learn more about SWBC Mortgage here: https://www.swbcmortgage.com/careers
NATIONALMORTGAGENEWS.COM
2021 Best Large Mortgage Companies to Work For
SWBC Mortgage is dedicated to innovation, so we’ve partnered with Blend® to streamline the borrower’s application process from start to finish, creating a dramatically easier path to fulfilling application requirements in a secure, fast, and organized digital setting. Check out the SWBC Mortgage case study to find out more.
BLEND.COM
Case Study: SWBC Mortgage + Blend
SWBC Mortgage has been a leader in the industry for over 30 years, and we’re committed to maintaining our legacy as a financially strong organization. Join one of the strongest mortgage companies in the US, where you can thrive with confidence in an ever-changing mortgage lending market. Click here to learn more about SWBC Mortgage’s rich history. https://www.swbcmortgage.com/about
SWBC Mortgage Honors Black History Month—By The Numbers: George Washington Carver, the trailblazing black American botanist and inventor, created over 100 products derived from peanuts. Among his many discoveries were plant-based cosmetics, paints, plastics, and alternative fuels. Watch this video to learn more about his life and vast contributions to science and industry. #blackhistorymonth
YOUTUBE.COM
George Washington Carver | The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation
SWBC Mortgage Celebrates Black History Month–Did You Know? There have been 16 black recipients of the Nobel Prize, including four African Americans. In 1950, Ralph Bunch was the very first black individual to win the prestigious award. Bunch served an influential role in mediating world affairs, from the Middle East to the Civil Rights Movement. Read more about Bunch and the other influential black Nobel Prize winners throughout history. #BlackHistoryMonth
WORLDATLAS.COM
Black Nobel Prize Winners
Remember to adjust those clocks for tomorrow.
Did you know there were over 146,000 loan officers employed by more than 16,300 independent mortgage companies in America last year? That's why SWBC Mortgage Loan Officers continue to stand out by achieving Top 1% national rankings and earning other accolades. Learn more about life at SWBC Mortgage. https://www.swbcmortgage.com/careers
Still waiting for your COVID-19 vaccine? Learn about a new website where you can register for a stand-by list to receive an excess vaccine shot before it expires.
USATODAY.COM
Looking for a COVID-19 vaccine? This website may text you when a vaccine is about to go unused
SWBC Mortgage goes beyond just a collaborative environment, We provide the technology, products, training, and support you need to grow your business, optimize closings, and become the originator you once thought possible. Start your career with SWBC Mortgage today! https://www.swbcmortgage.com/grow-with-swbc
Did you purchase or refinance a home last year? Then read this important guide before you prepare and file your taxes in 2021.
REALTOR.COM
7 Tax Benefits of Owning a Home: A Complete Guide for Filing This Year
The pandemic has impacted just about every aspect of our lives, especially how we think about real estate. Read more for an interesting perspective on how COVID has changed the housing market.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
How Has COVID-19 Affected Housing Priorities?
Whether you are a first-time or experienced homebuyer, it's not hard to get caught up in the sales process, especially when demand for homes is high. Learn some of the traps to avoid so you make a better, more informed purchase.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
Avoid These Red Flags During the Homebuying Process
New Review!
Wishing you good luck and laughter this #StPatricksDay!
A booming market isn't the only thing that can increase home values. How can you vastly increase your selling price—even during the pandemic? Learn more about the fresh, most important renovations that can help you create a must-have property. And contact me soon if you would like to explore SWBC Mortgage's renovation loan options.
REALTOR.COM
What the Flip? Portland Home Gets a Major Face-Lift and Gains $600K in Value
SWBC Mortgage has built a game-changing solution to streamline the borrower's application process from start to finish, and it's powered by Blend® technology. This online experience creates a dramatically easier path to fulfilling application requirements in a secure, fast, and organized digital setting.
SWBCMORTGAGE.COM
Turnkey | SWBC Mortgage
As working, attending school, and gathering for social interactions migrated online during the pandemic, the average monthly household data use skyrocketed by 40 percent. While the surge in screen time has had an obvious impact, only time will tell if these changes are temporary or become permanent.
MASHABLE.COM
How a year of living online has changed us
The pandemic has impacted just about every aspect of our lives, especially how we think about real estate. Read more for an interesting perspective on how COVID has changed the housing market.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
How Has COVID-19 Affected Housing Priorities?
Whether you are a first-time or experienced homebuyer, it's not hard to get caught up in the sales process, especially when demand for homes is high. Learn some of the traps to avoid so you make a better, more informed purchase.
BLOG.SWBC.COM
Avoid These Red Flags During the Homebuying Process
New Review!
