Dawn M. Elliott, Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS # 1098510

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United States
Brighton, MI
Dawn M. Elliott, Mortgage Loan Officer, NMLS # 1098510

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Direct Number 810-577-0727
NMLS # 1098510
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10/27/2026

Your emergency fund and your house fund should be two different things.

Why? Because home maintenance and repairs aren't a matter of if, they're a matter of when.

A dedicated "house fund" can help cover expected repairs and maintenance, from replacing a water heater to fixing a leaky roof, without dipping into your emergency fund.

10/22/2026

"We got pre-approved, so we bought all the furniture for the new house."

It's a mistake that happens more often than you'd think.

Buying a home is exciting, and it's natural to start planning for life in the new space. But before financing furniture, appliances, or a new vehicle, check with your lender.

What seems like a routine purchase can affect the mortgage process in ways many buyers don't expect.

Keep things as close to "business as usual" as possible until after loan closing.

10/20/2026

Thinking about building a home but not sure where to start?

Our Construction Loan Handbook breaks down the financing and building process in plain language, from understanding construction terms to navigating timelines, loan options, and common questions. You'll also learn about the tools and resources available through First Merchants to help guide you along the way.

📖 Download your free guide today:https://www.firstmerchants.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/fmb-construction-loan-handbook-0723.pdf

10/15/2026

First comes Fall. Then comes...

Snow, ice, and freezing temps.

Is your home ready?

10/13/2026

Depending on your situation, you could qualify for low down payment financing, grants, or down payment assistance programs that help reduce upfront costs. The challenge is knowing what's available and understanding which programs can be combined.

That's where having the right lender matters.

I help my clients explore every available option. That could include our Community Homebuyer Grant, which offers up to $7,500 toward down payment and/or closing costs, as well as additional assistance programs available through local community partners.

Before you decide homeownership is out of reach, let's talk. A quick homebuyer consultation could uncover opportunities you didn't know existed.
https://myoc.io/dvjNB7bQM5X

10/08/2026

A mortgage pre-approval typically requires a credit check, which may cause a small, temporary impact to your credit score. For most buyers, the impact is minor.

If you're not quite ready for a full pre-approval, you may want to start with a pre-qualification instead. A pre-qualification is often based on information you provide verbally or online and can give you a general idea of what you may be able to afford. In many cases, it doesn't require a hard credit inquiry.

A pre-approval goes a step further. Your lender reviews your credit, income, assets, and other financial information to provide a more complete picture of your buying power.

Whether you're ready for a pre-qualification or a full pre-approval, understanding your options is often the first step toward homeownership.

Have questions about the process or ready to get started? I'd be happy to help.
https://myoc.io/dvjNB7bQM5X

10/06/2026

The final step in the homebuyer process is called “Closing”.

After your loan has gone through the approval process and you are “Clear to Close,” your lender will schedule a Closing day to finalize the transaction and transfer ownership of the home to you.

Here’s what you can expect:

👉 24 hours before closing, you may do a final walk-through of the property with your real estate agent to ensure it’s in the agreed upon condition and that the seller has moved out.

👉 Closing is typically held at the office of your title company or real estate agent and takes about one to two hours.

👉 During closing, you will be asked to review and sign a lot of documents and provide payment for your final closing costs and down payment.

After everything is signed and completed, you will receive the keys to your new home. You are officially a homeowner!

09/29/2026

Whether you're relocating for a new opportunity, helping a family member purchase a home, buying a retirement property, or finding the perfect home outside your current market, you deserve a lending experience that travels with you.

My ability to lend nationwide means you can work with someone you know and trust, no matter where your next chapter begins.

When you're ready to make a move, let's connect and explore your options.
https://myoc.io/dvjNB7bQM5X

09/24/2026

Many of these programs can be combined, creating opportunities for homebuyers to reduce upfront costs and purchase sooner than they may have thought possible.

Reach out anytime if you'd like to discuss your options or get a personalized mortgage quote.
https://myoc.io/dvjNB7bQM5X

09/22/2026

Buying your first home is a big milestone, and having the right financing and support can make all the difference.

Thank you for the kind words, Eric, and congratulations on your new home!

Address

Brighton, MI
48116

Telephone

+18105770727

Website

http://firstmerchants.com/DawnElliott

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