Lisa Steinkamp at HomeServices Lending

08/28/2026

Some weekend plans come with a front door and a showing appointment. 🏡

If questions come up while you’re house hunting, we’re available to connect this weekend. Whether you want to explore financing options, update a preapproval, or prepare for your next step, reach out!

08/26/2026

Recent research suggests many renters may be ruling themselves out based on outdated assumptions. 👀

You may not need 20% down, a high credit score, or zero debt to buy a home. Requirements vary, and lenders consider your full financial picture.

Before you count yourself out, talk with a Mortgage Consultant. You may have more options than you think.

08/25/2026

Homeownership may feel further away than it really is when outdated assumptions are doing the math for you.

One of the biggest takeaways from recent research on renter perceptions? Many people may be counting themselves out before ever finding out what their options actually look like.

There isn’t one universal down payment requirement, and what may be available depends on the borrower, the property, and the loan program.

If buying a home is somewhere on your horizon, don’t let an old rule of thumb become a roadblock. Start with good information and a conversation about what may fit your situation.

08/24/2026

The quickest option isn’t always the most cost-effective one.

When unexpected expenses arise, many homeowners reach for a credit card without considering the equity they’ve built. The exclusion limit shown here refers to the $250,000 federal home-sale capital gains exclusion for qualifying single filers, used as a benchmark for the share of homeowners who have built equity beyond that amount.

While borrowing against a home isn’t appropriate for every situation, understanding the available options can help homeowners make more informed financial decisions. A Mortgage Consultant can help homeowners explore potential ways to access their equity while carefully considering the costs, repayment terms, and risks involved.

*By refinancing an existing loan, your total finance charges may be higher over the life of the loan.

08/22/2026

This custom built home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, and is a ranch style home. This home was built in 2024 and has all of the modern finishes you could want. Don't miss it!

Contact Connie Brown Realtor, Iowa Realty to learn more and message me if you're thinking about getting pre-approved!

This stunning 5 BR ranch home has everything you want with 3200 sq ft of finish! Custom built in 2024 with all the details thought of for you. Located in the coveted Reserve at Daybreak, the wide entry opens into a spectacular open concept area with a large living room, fireplace, beautiful wood she...

08/21/2026

Relentless in service isn’t just something we say. It’s how we show up.

From the first conversation to the closing table and long after the keys are handed over, we’re committed to being responsive, dependable, and ready to help every step of the way.

Because home financing is about more than getting to closing. It’s about the experience you have getting there. 🏡🔑

# HSL

08/19/2026

We’re bringing back a little old-school charm for this week’s This or That ✨

If you could resurrect one retro home feature, which would you choose?

1️⃣ Stained glass for color, character, and curb appeal
or
2️⃣ Dutch doors for charm, fresh air, and personality

Drop your pick below 👇

08/18/2026

📊 A changing market calls for a sharper strategy.

July’s REALTORS® Confidence Index shows some momentum easing as higher mortgage rates weighed on buyer and seller sentiment. Homes are taking a little longer to sell, fewer are closing above asking, and first-time buyer activity pulled back.

🏡 Median existing-home price: $431,400
👥 First-time buyers: 29% of transactions
📈 19% of homes sold above list price
⏳ Median days on market: 29

For real estate professionals, that shift matters. A slightly less competitive market can create new openings for buyers—but turning those openings into opportunities still takes preparation, perspective, and the right strategy.

That’s where having a competitive edge and a mortgage consultant who’s Relentless in Service can make all the difference.

08/17/2026

📊 Inflation may be reported as one number, but consumers feel it category by category.

Overall prices increased 3.4% year over year in July, but the changes varied considerably. Airline fares rose 25.5%, gasoline increased 24.6%, and energy climbed 14.7%. Meanwhile, motor vehicle insurance, medical care commodities, used vehicles and dairy each posted declines.

Why does this matter in real estate? A buyer’s budget extends well beyond the monthly mortgage payment. Changes in everyday expenses can influence purchasing power, confidence and the timing of a home purchase.

Understanding what is happening beneath the headline number can lead to more informed conversations with your clients.

08/14/2026

You can’t map the path ahead without knowing where you’re starting. 🧭
National Financial Awareness Day is a reminder to pause, take stock, and make intentional choices about the future you’re building. Review your spending, check in on your savings, revisit your goals, and identify one healthy financial habit you can strengthen.

If homeownership is one of those goals, you don’t have to wait until you feel completely ready to start asking questions. Connecting with a Mortgage Consultant early can help you better understand the financing journey and the steps that may support your path forward.