Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC - NMLS# 1371507

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

Continuing our series debunking common homebuying myths, here is one many first-time buyers hear:

Myth: You need perfect credit to buy a home.

The truth is, you do not need perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage. Your credit score is an important part of the loan process, but different loan programs have different credit requirements.

A higher credit score may help you qualify for better loan terms, but less-than-perfect credit does not automatically mean homeownership is out of reach. And if your credit needs some work, there may be steps you can take to improve your position before you buy.

Not sure where you stand? Start with a conversation with a loan professional to learn what options may be available to you.

©2026 Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC, headquartered at 8911 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite 4300G, Austin, TX 78759. NMLS #1371507. www.SCDisclaimers.com

08/19/2026

Following up on our Home Financing Basics series, we thought the next logical step was to debunk some of the most common homebuying myths.

One of the biggest is that you need a 20% down payment to buy a home.

In reality, qualified buyers may have several down payment options, including low- and even 0% down programs for eligible borrowers. Down payment assistance may also be available depending on the program and buyer qualifications.

The right financing option depends on your credit, income, financial situation, and the home you are purchasing. Before assuming you need 20% down, talk with a loan professional and find out what options may be available to you.

Contact your loan originator to learn more about available programs, eligibility requirements, and complete program details.

©2026 Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC, headquartered at 8911 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite 4300G, Austin, TX 78759. NMLS #1371507. www.SCDisclaimers.com

08/09/2026

Welcome home and congratulations to all our homebuyers who purchased a new home from Sitterle Homes in July.

We appreciate the opportunity to help with your financing and be part of your homebuying journey. Wishing you many happy memories in your new home.

©2026 Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC, headquartered at 8911 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite 4300G, Austin, TX 78759. NMLS #1371507. www.SCDisclaimers.com

07/29/2026

Review Before You Close

As you near the end of your home-financing journey, one of the most important documents you’ll receive is your Closing Disclosure.

This document shows the final details of your mortgage loan, including:
• Loan terms
• Projected monthly payment
• Closing costs
• Other fees and charges

Lenders are generally required to provide the Closing Disclosure at least 3 business days before closing, giving you time to review the numbers and ask questions.

Before you sign, compare it to your Loan Estimate to make sure the terms are what you expected.

Source: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-is-a-closing-disclosure-en-1983/

©2026 Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC, headquartered at 8911 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite 4300G, Austin, TX 78759. NMLS #1371507. www.SCDisclaimers.com

07/23/2026

07/21/2026

Why Appraisals Matter

As part of our ongoing consumer education series, today we want to talk about appraisals and why they matter.

An appraisal is an estimate of a home’s value completed by a qualified appraiser. During the mortgage process, the lender may order an appraisal to help confirm that the home’s value supports the amount being financed. The appraiser reviews the property, its features, and recent sales of similar homes in the area.

An appraisal is not the same as a home inspection. It focuses on the property’s value, while an inspection focuses on the home’s condition.

In most cases, you will receive a copy of the appraisal or other property valuation completed for your mortgage.

Source: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-are-appraisals-and-why-do-i-need-to-look-at-them-en-167/

©2026 Smart Choice Mortgage, LLC, headquartered at 8911 N. Capital of Texas Highway, Suite 4300G, Austin, TX 78759. NMLS #1371507. www.SCDisclaimers.com

07/18/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Kasey Hampton by Benito J B - Kasey, was very helpful during the whole process, very positive person, came across some speed bumps with my other house and she was very calm and collective and assured me that everything would be alright. She was correct, we were able to close and everything went smooth.

Click to see all 59 reviews of Kasey Hampton, Residential Mortgage Loan Originator | NMLS #275537