Redwood Mortgage Services

Redwood Mortgage Services Redwood Mortgage Services - NMLS ID: 91893
www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/
Refinance your mortgage, purchase your first home, or obtain a reverse mortgage.

We have the experience to make any mortgage process uncomplicated and rewarding for you. Redwood Morgage Services is a full-service mortgage broker/lender founded in 1999 and licensed in Maryland, Virginia, District of Columbia, Delaware and Florida. Since 1999, we have seen mortgage companies come and go and we have seen the industry through it's many twists and turns. In the meantime, we have be

en successfully closing loans for hundreds of new and existing clients. Let us know how we can help you! (410) 266-1621

(mortgage, refinance, purchase, first time homebuyer, VA loans, reverse mortgage, FHA refinance, FHA purchase, USDA purchase, USDA refinance)

FHA loans are a strong option for many buyers -- but it is important to understand the cost of FHA mortgage insurance, k...
09/09/2026

FHA loans are a strong option for many buyers -- but it is important to understand the cost of FHA mortgage insurance, known as MIP.

Unlike conventional PMI, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium has two components. First is the Upfront MIP -- 1.75% of the loan amount, typically rolled into your loan balance at closing. Second is the Annual MIP, divided into monthly payments and added to your mortgage payment each month.

The annual MIP rate depends on your loan term, loan amount, and down payment. For most FHA borrowers putting 3.5% down on a 30-year loan, the annual MIP is currently 0.55% of the loan balance.

One key difference from conventional PMI: for most FHA loans with less than 10% down, MIP remains for the life of the loan. This is why some borrowers choose to refinance into a conventional loan once they reach 20% equity -- eliminating MIP entirely.

Understanding MIP upfront helps you make the right call for your financial situation -- whether that is an FHA loan now or a different path forward.

Want to compare your options side by side? Visit RedwoodMortgageServices.com to get started.

Stuart Kiehne | NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL

You have probably heard the word "escrow" -- but what does it actually mean for your mortgage payment?When you close on ...
09/05/2026

You have probably heard the word "escrow" -- but what does it actually mean for your mortgage payment?

When you close on a home, your lender typically sets up an escrow account to collect funds for two major expenses: property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Instead of paying those large bills once or twice a year yourself, a portion is included in your monthly mortgage payment and held in escrow until the bills come due.

This setup benefits both you and the lender. You avoid scrambling for a large lump sum, and the lender ensures those critical obligations are paid on time.

Each year, your lender performs an escrow analysis to make sure the account is properly funded. If your taxes or insurance premiums increase, your monthly payment may adjust accordingly. You will receive a written statement explaining any changes.

Some loan programs allow you to waive escrow if you meet certain equity and credit requirements -- though this typically comes with a small fee.

Understanding your escrow account helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises in your monthly payment.

Have questions about how your payment is structured? Visit RedwoodMortgageServices.com and let's connect.

Stuart Kiehne | NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL

If you are putting less than 20% down on a conventional loan, you will likely hear about Private Mortgage Insurance -- o...
09/04/2026

If you are putting less than 20% down on a conventional loan, you will likely hear about Private Mortgage Insurance -- or PMI.

PMI is a monthly premium added to your mortgage payment that protects the lender in the event of default. It typically ranges from 0.5% to 1.5% of your loan amount per year, depending on your credit score, loan size, and down payment.

Here is what many buyers do not realize: PMI is not permanent. Once you reach 20% equity in your home -- through your payments, appreciation, or a combination -- you can request cancellation. By law, lenders must automatically cancel PMI when you reach 22% equity based on the original purchase price.

PMI is often misunderstood as something to avoid at all costs. But for many buyers, it makes more sense to put less down, keep healthy cash reserves, and build equity over time while PMI is eventually removed.

There are also loan structures that eliminate PMI entirely. Want to see what makes the most sense for your situation?

DM me and let's walk through your options together.

Stuart Kiehne | NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL

When you apply for a mortgage, two documents will shape your understanding of what you are actually paying: the Loan Est...
09/03/2026

When you apply for a mortgage, two documents will shape your understanding of what you are actually paying: the Loan Estimate and the Closing Disclosure.

The Loan Estimate arrives within three business days of your application. It outlines your projected interest rate, monthly payment, closing costs, and loan terms. Think of it as a detailed preview of your mortgage.

The Closing Disclosure comes at least three business days before your closing date. It confirms the final terms of your loan -- and this is where you should compare it carefully to your original Loan Estimate. While some numbers may shift slightly, significant changes are worth discussing with your lender immediately.

Knowing what to look for on these documents puts you in control of one of the biggest financial decisions of your life. You should never feel rushed or confused at the closing table.

I walk every client through both documents line by line so there are no surprises. If you have questions about either disclosure, reach out anytime.

Visit RedwoodMortgageServices.com to learn more or get started with your application today.

Stuart Kiehne | NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL

One of the most important numbers in your mortgage application is not your credit score -- it is your Debt-to-Income Rat...
09/02/2026

One of the most important numbers in your mortgage application is not your credit score -- it is your Debt-to-Income Ratio, or DTI.

Your DTI compares your total monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. Lenders use it to measure how much of your paycheck is already committed to existing obligations. There are two types: front-end DTI (just your projected housing costs) and back-end DTI (all monthly debts combined).

Most conventional loan programs look for a back-end DTI of 45% or lower, though some programs allow up to 50% with compensating factors. FHA loans can be more flexible depending on your overall financial profile.

Here is the good news -- DTI is something you can improve before you apply. Paying down credit card balances, eliminating a car payment, or avoiding new debt in the months before application can make a meaningful difference.

Not sure where your DTI stands? I would be glad to run the numbers with you before you submit anything. A quick conversation can save you a lot of surprises down the road.

DM me today and let's take a look together.

Stuart Kiehne | NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL

If another lender told you no, or if you are not sure the rate or terms you were offered are truly the best available, p...
08/27/2026

If another lender told you no, or if you are not sure the rate or terms you were offered are truly the best available, please reach out before you make a final decision.

Getting a second opinion on your mortgage is one of the smartest moves you can make. Loan officers vary in their experience, access to programs, and willingness to dig into complex situations. What one lender cannot do, another may be able to accomplish.

Here is when a second opinion makes sense:

You were denied and are not sure why. You received a pre-approval but the rate or fees feel high. You are self-employed and were told your income does not qualify. You had a past credit event and were turned away. You simply want to make sure you are getting the best possible deal before signing.

I review files that other lenders have passed on all the time. Sometimes the issue is straightforward and fixable. Sometimes there is a better program available that the other lender did not offer. And sometimes, the answer truly is no, but at least you will know you explored every option.

There is no cost and no obligation for a second opinion conversation. My job is to help you make the best decision for your situation, even if that means confirming what you already heard.

Visit us at Redwood-Mortgage.com to get started.

Stuart Kiehne | Loan Officer
NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL
📞 410-266-1641

If you are a real estate agent, I want you to know something important: you will never have to chase me for an update on...
08/26/2026

If you are a real estate agent, I want you to know something important: you will never have to chase me for an update on your client's loan.

Every referring agent in my pipeline receives a written status update every week on every active referral. That is not a promise I make lightly. It is a system I have built because I understand how much your reputation is on the line with every client you refer.

Here is what that means in practice:

You know exactly where your client's loan stands at all times. You can communicate confidently with your clients and avoid the awkward moments that come with being out of the loop. Problems get surfaced early so we can solve them together before they become deal-killers. And you can focus on what you do best, which is serving your clients and growing your business, while knowing the financing side is handled.

The mortgage process has too many moving parts to leave communication to chance. My written weekly updates keep everyone on the same page and eliminate the frustration that often comes with working with lenders who go dark mid-transaction.

If you are a real estate agent looking for a loan officer who shows up, communicates, and follows through, I would love to earn your business.

Send us a message today and let us have a conversation.

Stuart Kiehne | Loan Officer
NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL
📞 410-266-1641

If you are planning to buy a home, understanding the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval can save you ...
08/22/2026

If you are planning to buy a home, understanding the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval can save you time and make you a stronger buyer in the eyes of sellers.

Pre-qualification is typically a quick, informal estimate of how much you may be able to borrow. It is based on self-reported financial information and does not involve a credit check or income verification. It is a good first step but does not carry a lot of weight in a competitive market.

Pre-approval is a more formal process. It involves submitting documentation, verifying your income, assets, and employment, and having your credit pulled. A pre-approval letter tells sellers and real estate agents that a lender has reviewed your financials and is prepared to issue a loan up to a specific amount.

Here is why it matters:

In a competitive market, sellers often will not consider offers from buyers who are not pre-approved. Pre-approval gives you a realistic picture of your budget before you start shopping. It also helps identify any issues early so they can be addressed before you find the home you want.

My pre-approval process is thorough, straightforward, and designed to put you in the strongest possible position when you are ready to make an offer.

Reach out today and let us get you pre-approved and ready to go.

Stuart Kiehne | Loan Officer
NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL
📞 410-266-1641

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in mortgage qualification, but it is not the only one, and a less...
08/21/2026

Your credit score is one of the most important factors in mortgage qualification, but it is not the only one, and a less-than-perfect score does not necessarily mean you cannot buy.

Here is a general breakdown of how credit scores impact mortgage options:

Conventional loans typically require a minimum score of 620, though higher scores unlock better rates and terms. FHA loans may be available with scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment, or as low as 500 with a 10% down payment. VA loans do not have an official minimum score set by the VA, though most lenders apply their own overlays. USDA loans generally follow similar guidelines to conventional loans for credit requirements.

Your credit score affects your interest rate significantly. Even a small improvement in your score before applying can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.

If your score needs work, here are some steps that may help: paying down revolving balances, avoiding new credit inquiries, and correcting any errors on your credit report.

The good news is that even with past credit challenges, there are programs available that can work for you. I have helped many buyers navigate the process and achieve homeownership sooner than they thought possible.

Visit us at Redwood-Mortgage.com to get started.

Stuart Kiehne | Loan Officer
NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL
📞 410-266-1641

For homeowners aged 62 and older, a reverse mortgage can be a valuable financial planning tool. Understanding how it wor...
08/20/2026

For homeowners aged 62 and older, a reverse mortgage can be a valuable financial planning tool. Understanding how it works is the first step.

A reverse mortgage, most commonly a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) insured by the FHA, allows eligible homeowners to convert a portion of their home equity into tax-free loan proceeds without making a monthly mortgage payment. The loan is repaid when the homeowner moves out, sells the home, or passes away.

Here is what you should know:

You must be at least 62 years old and own your home outright or have significant equity. The home must be your primary residence. You remain responsible for property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and home maintenance. Loan proceeds can be received as a lump sum, monthly payments, or a line of credit. Independent counseling from a HUD-approved counselor is required before you can proceed.

A reverse mortgage is not right for everyone, but for the right homeowner, it can provide financial flexibility, supplement retirement income, or help cover healthcare costs while allowing you to remain in your home.

This is a decision that deserves a thorough, no-pressure conversation. Send us a message and let us talk through whether it might be right for you or a family member.

Stuart Kiehne | Loan Officer
NMLS #92008 | Redwood Mortgage Services
Licensed in MD, VA, DE, DC, NC, FL
📞 410-266-1641

Address

2077 Somerville Road , Suite 220
Annapolis, MD
21401

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 8:30am - 5pm

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