Kris Brewer, Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #2121953

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Kris Brewer, Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #2121953 OneTrust Home Loans, NMLS # 46375
Branch NMLS #2472100
(888) 488-3807
Equal Opportunity Lender

1351 Stoneridge Dr, Suite C
Bozeman, MT 59718

(406) 539-3760

VA loans aren't just for buying existing homes. Eligible Veterans and service members may also be able to use VA financi...
11/03/2026

VA loans aren't just for buying existing homes. Eligible Veterans and service members may also be able to use VA financing to build a new home.

There are two common ways this can work. A one-time close loan combines construction financing and the permanent mortgage into one loan with a single closing. A two-time close involves a construction loan to build the home, followed by a separate VA mortgage once construction is complete.

Building a home also involves a few extra steps compared to buying an existing one. The lender may need to review the builder, home plans, construction budget, property, and appraisal.

Not all lenders offer the same VA construction loan options. Working with a lender experienced in VA construction financing can help buyers understand their options and what to expect throughout the building process.

You may have heard of an FHA loan, but what exactly makes it different from other mortgage options?FHA loans are mortgag...
10/29/2026

You may have heard of an FHA loan, but what exactly makes it different from other mortgage options?

FHA loans are mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration and offered through FHA-approved lenders. They can be an option for both first-time and repeat homebuyers.

Compared with some conventional loan programs, FHA financing may offer more flexible credit and qualification guidelines and may require a smaller down payment for qualified borrowers. FHA loans also have their own requirements related to mortgage insurance, the property being financed, loan limits, and borrower eligibility.

There is no single mortgage program that is right for every buyer. Understanding how FHA financing compares with other available options can help buyers determine which loan programs may fit their individual financial situation and homebuying goals.

Thinking about building a home? The financing conversation may need to happen earlier than expected.Construction financi...
10/27/2026

Thinking about building a home? The financing conversation may need to happen earlier than expected.

Construction financing can involve more than determining how much a borrower may qualify for. The homesite, builder, plans, specifications, construction budget, appraisal, and project timeline may all become part of the financing process.

Talking with a construction lender early can help buyers better understand available loan options and what information may be needed before making major decisions about the project.

That conversation can be especially helpful before purchasing land, finalizing plans, signing a construction contract, or making other significant financial commitments related to the build.

Building a home has a lot of moving pieces. Understanding the financing requirements early can help buyers approach those decisions with a clearer picture of how the overall project may come together.

Once the mortgage process is underway, financial changes can sometimes affect loan qualification.Before closing, buyers ...
10/22/2026

Once the mortgage process is underway, financial changes can sometimes affect loan qualification.

Before closing, buyers may want to avoid opening new credit accounts, financing large purchases, taking on significant new debt, or making major changes to employment without first discussing them with their lender. Large transfers or deposits may also require additional documentation.

That does not mean life has to stop while buying a home. It simply means communication matters.

If a financial change is unavoidable or there is a question about whether something could affect the loan, checking with the loan officer before making the move can help prevent unnecessary surprises before closing.

New to reverse mortgages? Here are four basics that may help you understand them.1. You continue to own your home. A rev...
10/20/2026

New to reverse mortgages? Here are four basics that may help you understand them.

1. You continue to own your home. A reverse mortgage is a loan secured by the home. The borrower remains the homeowner.

2. HECMs are generally available to homeowners age 62 and older. Eligibility also depends on other borrower, property, and program requirements.

3. A portion of home equity may become available as loan proceeds. The amount available depends on several factors, including age, interest rates and the home's value, subject to applicable program limits.

4. Homeowner responsibilities continue. Borrowers must continue paying property taxes and homeowners insurance and maintaining the home.

Reverse mortgages work differently from traditional mortgages, so education is an important part of determining whether one may fit into a homeowner's broader retirement and housing plans.

Underwriting is one of the key stages between applying for a mortgage and receiving final loan approval.During this proc...
10/15/2026

Underwriting is one of the key stages between applying for a mortgage and receiving final loan approval.

During this process, the underwriter reviews the loan file to confirm that the borrower, property, and loan meet applicable program and lender requirements. This may include reviewing income, assets, credit, debts, appraisal information, and other documentation.

Sometimes additional documents or explanations may be requested. That does not necessarily mean something is wrong. It can simply be part of completing the review and verifying information needed for the loan decision.

Understanding what happens during underwriting can make this part of the homebuying process feel much less mysterious. Staying responsive and keeping financial documents organized can also help the process continue moving forward.

A reverse mortgage can offer financial flexibility for some homeowners, but deciding whether it is the right fit starts ...
10/13/2026

A reverse mortgage can offer financial flexibility for some homeowners, but deciding whether it is the right fit starts with asking the right questions.

How long is the home expected to remain the primary residence? What financial goals are most important during retirement? How might available home equity support those goals? What responsibilities continue throughout the life of the loan? And how could the decision affect longer term plans for the home?

These conversations can help homeowners look beyond the basic features of the loan and understand how a reverse mortgage may fit into their broader financial picture.

Every client has different priorities, resources, and retirement goals. That is why we take the time to walk through the options, answer questions, and help homeowners determine a strategy that makes sense for their individual situation.

One unique part of construction financing is determining the value of a home that does not exist yet.For a new construct...
10/08/2026

One unique part of construction financing is determining the value of a home that does not exist yet.

For a new construction appraisal, the appraiser may review the plans, specifications, proposed finishes, site information, construction contract, and other project details to develop an opinion of the property's expected value once completed.

That appraisal becomes an important part of the construction financing process because the lender is evaluating the proposed finished home rather than an existing property.

Detailed plans and accurate project information can help provide a clearer picture of what is being built. Working with a construction lender who understands this process can also help buyers and builders know what documentation may be needed before the appraisal is ordered.

USDA loans are often associated with rural homebuying, but there is more to the program than many buyers realize.The USD...
10/06/2026

USDA loans are often associated with rural homebuying, but there is more to the program than many buyers realize.

The USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program is designed to help eligible low- and moderate-income households purchase a primary residence in eligible rural areas. Qualified borrowers may be eligible for financing up to 100% LTV. Both the borrower and the property must meet USDA eligibility requirements.

One important thing to know is that USDA eligibility is based on specific geographic boundaries. A property does not necessarily have to feel remote or agricultural to potentially fall within an eligible area. USDA provides an eligibility tool that can be used to check specific locations.

For buyers considering homes outside major urban areas, it may be worth asking a lender whether USDA financing is one of the available options.

Selling a home with a reverse mortgage is possible, and understanding what happens to the loan can make the process feel...
10/01/2026

Selling a home with a reverse mortgage is possible, and understanding what happens to the loan can make the process feel much clearer.

When the home is sold, the reverse mortgage balance generally becomes due and is repaid from the proceeds of the sale. Any remaining equity after the loan and applicable selling costs are satisfied belongs to the homeowner or their estate.

For some homeowners, selling may be part of downsizing, relocating closer to family, or simply choosing a home that better fits retirement needs. Knowing how a reverse mortgage works when plans change can help homeowners make informed decisions with greater confidence.

Borrowers remain responsible for property taxes, insurance, and upkeep while the reverse mortgage is in place. Every situation is different, so taking time to review the loan and available options can help determine the right next step.

Address

1351 Stoneridge Drive, Suite C
Bozeman, MT
59718

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 6pm

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