Feb 2026 Q&A with Felisa

Q: How can buyers improve their purchasing power without significantly increasing income?

Assuming we’re talking about what someone qualifies for (which is often very different from what they’re comfortable paying), the biggest lever is debt reduction.

Focus on paying down debts with the highest monthly payments, even if the balances aren’t large. Lenders look at monthly payment obligations first, not total balances—which is the opposite of what most people assume.

Q: How should people think about interest rates beyond just the headline number?

Interest rates can change anytime the bond market is open—sometimes from morning to afternoon.

As rates rise, purchasing power decreases; as they fall, it increases. That’s why timing, structure, and strategy matter just as much as the headline rate itself.

Q: If someone bought or refinanced in the last few years, does it make sense to review their loan today?

Yes. I offer a complimentary annual mortgage review to everyone whether you’re a past client or not.

Most people think refinancing only makes sense when rates drop, but that’s not always the case. Homeowners often refinance to:

• Remove mortgage insurance
• Shorten their loan term
• Access equity for remodeling or other goals
• Free up VA entitlement by refinancing into a conventional loan

A quick review can reveal options people didn’t realize they had.

Q: What are common mistakes buyers make when they wait too long to talk to a lender?

The biggest mistake is finding the right property and then missing out because they weren’t fully prepared.

That’s not just frustrating—it can be heartbreaking. Early conversations help avoid surprises and put buyers in a stronger position when the right opportunity comes along.

Q: Is it possible to buy another property without selling your current home first?

Yes—and there have never been more “Buy Before You Sell” options available.

Depending on equity, credit, and overall financial profile, there may be ways to purchase first and sell later without taking on unnecessary stress.