Sheila Schmidt - Total Home Lending

08/31/2026

08/31/2026

If you're getting serious about buying, what you do (and don't do) in the months leading up to your purchase can make a big difference. Here's a quick guide: 📋

✅ DO:
• Get pre-qualified early 🏁
• Save consistently for your down payment and closing costs 💰
• Pay bills on time to protect your credit score 📅
• Keep your employment situation stable 💼
• Ask questions — no question is too small 🙋

❌ DON'T:
• Open new lines of credit or apply for new loans
• Make large unexplained deposits into your bank accounts 🏦
• Change jobs right before applying (if you can help it)
• Make big purchases — cars, furniture, appliances can wait 🛑
• Co-sign on someone else's loan

Some of these might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how often small decisions before closing can complicate the process. The good news? We walk you through all of it. 🏠 Contact us today to get started on the right foot!

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

JUST LISTED

A charming 2 bedroom, 1-bath Craftsman-style home, lovingly maintained and full of original character. You'll appreciate the warmth of the original woodwork, exposed ceiling beams, beautiful hardwood floors and wood trim. The spacious living room offers plenty of room to relax and features a brick fireplace and new carpet. The generous dining area opens toward the kitchen, creating a comfortable flow for everyday living and entertaining. The bedrooms feature spacious custom closets, offering an abundance of built-in storage and dressing space. The full basement provides additional storage and versatile space to suit your needs. Outside, enjoy a large covered front porch with a beautiful wood ceiling, the perfect spot for relaxing at the end of the day. The property also offers two driveways and a detached 1-car garage for added parking and convenience. A home with character, original craftsmanship, and plenty of space, ready for its next owner to appreciate what makes it special.

Ruthy Moura
+1 (989) 909 5980

https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/1608-N-Oakley-St-Saginaw-MI-48602/140963155_zpid/?utm_campaign=zillowwebmessage&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=txtshare

08/24/2026

Back-to-school season is an excellent reminder that planning ahead pays off — whether it's for school supplies or your financial future. 🎒 If homeownership is one of your goals, here are a few straightforward ways to start building toward it:

💰 Set a monthly savings target specifically for your down payment.
📉 Pay down high-interest debt to improve your DTI ratio.
📊 Check your credit report for errors (available for free at annualcreditreport.com).
🏠 Investigate down payment assistance programs in your area.
📞 Schedule a free consultation with a mortgage professional — yes, us!

You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. That's what we're here for — to help you understand your current situation and where you need to go. 🏠 Contact us today, and let's create a plan!

08/17/2026

If you already own a home, refinancing could be worth a closer look. 🔍 Here's a quick breakdown of when it makes sense:

✅ Lower your monthly payment 💸
✅ Secure a lower interest rate 📉
✅ Shorten your loan term ⏳
✅ Switch from an ARM to a fixed-rate loan 🔒
✅ Tap into your home's equity (cash-out refinance) 💰

A good rule of thumb: if you can lower your rate meaningfully, it's worth the conversation. But the right timing also depends on how long you plan to stay and what fees are involved. 💡 We'll help you run the numbers. Contact us to explore your refinance options! 💬

08/17/2026

🏡 OPEN HOUSE ALERT: Your Dream Home Awaits! 🏡

Looking for the perfect blend of indoor comfort, outdoor space, and endless potential? Step inside this charming single-story beauty this weekend and fall in love!

✨ WHY YOU’D LOVE LIVING HERE:

◾️Desirable Double Lot: Endless outdoor space featuring a fully fenced-in yard, beautiful landscaping, and a patio ready for summer BBQs.

◾️Trailblazer’s Location: Just steps from local rail trail access—perfect for daily walks, weekend bike rides, and outdoor adventures.

◾️Flexible Living Space: 2 spacious bedrooms PLUS a dedicated main-floor office (easily a potential 3rd bedroom!).

◾️Storage & Space Galore: Massive 2.5-car garage and a full basement offering incredible storage, hobby, or future living space.

◾️Year-Round Comfort: Easy single-story layout paired with central air conditioning.

👀View Listing: https://arhousebay.com/properties/2507-7th-street-bay-city-mi-us-48708-50218100

Whether you're looking to downsize, buy your first home, or secure an incredible lot with room to roam, this one checks every single box.

📍Hosted by: Jen Hanson and Chris Griffin
🚤Ayre Rhinehart Bay Realtors
📲989.892.4800

Tag someone who is house hunting, call to schedule a private tour ahead of the crowd!

08/12/2026

Congrats to Sam and Autumn on the purchase of their new home today! 🎊Every closing is important, but this one’s a little extra special when lifelong family friends refer their adult kids to me it’s truly an honor! They closed on the sale of their home and the purchase of their new one all on the same day seamlessly. I had to throw in a gag gift but their Realtor one upped me with a case of Busch light. 😂 It’s been great working with you both, cheers to many happy years there! 🍻

08/10/2026

Not all mortgages have fixed rates. An adjustable-rate mortgage, or ARM, operates differently — and it's worth understanding. 📊 With an ARM, your interest rate is fixed for an initial period (commonly 5, 7, or 10 years), then adjusts periodically based on market conditions.

Pros: 👍
✅ Lower initial rate than a 30-year fixed.
✅ Can be an excellent fit if you plan to move or refinance before the adjustment period.

Cons: ⚠️
📉 Rate may rise after the fixed period.
📋 Less predictability over the long term.

ARMs aren't suitable for everyone — but for the right buyer, they can offer genuine savings. 💡 Let's discuss whether it makes sense for your situation. Contact us to explore all your mortgage options! 🏠