Lauren Hickman First Horizon Mortgage NMLS #1378952

06/30/2026

Did you know that when it comes to mortgage approval, your student loans, car payment and credit card balances matter just as much as your income?

Lenders use your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) to determine your borrowing capacity. This ratio is calculated by dividing your total monthly debt payments by your gross monthly income. By paying down high-interest debt before you apply for a mortgage, you can potentially increase your homebuying power.

Here's a closer look at how debt shapes what home you may afford: https://bit.ly/4gLJHor

Ready to move forward with homeownership? Let's talk so you can develop a plan that works and fits your life.

06/26/2026

With tight inventory and higher moving costs, more homeowners are choosing to renovate rather than relocate.

From energy efficiency upgrades to added flexible living space, the focus is on boosting comfort and long-term value at home.

What renovation priorities are you seeing in your market?

A growing share of U.S. homeowners are choosing to renovate their current homes instead of moving, a trend that reflects ongoing affordability challenges and continues to constrain housing turnover.More than two in five Americans (43%) completed home renovations in the past year, while another 33% p...

06/23/2026

Do you know your SWAN (Sleep Well At Night) number?

If you received a preapproval letter from your lender and the number is bigger than expected, make sure you ask yourself, "Can I really afford that?"

The max number you might qualify for on paper, isn't necessarily the payment that fits your life.

Here's what you need to know about mortgage affordability and finding your SWAN number: https://bit.ly/4w6RQbz

06/16/2026

Are mortgage rate fluctuations causing homebuying anxiety? Rate volatility doesn't just affect your monthly payment, it reshapes your entire budget.

Take control! Discover three strategic frameworks that can help you shift from reactive anxiety to proactive strategy: https://bit.ly/4vQSVEc

Ready to discuss your options and ease the stress? Contact me today.

06/09/2026

A good banker isn't there to sell you the biggest loan you qualify for, they're there to help you make an informed decision so you can find a home you love and can afford.

A conversation with a First Horizon banker is more than just a discussion about loan products, it's a dialogue about your life.

Contact me today, and I can help you build a mortgage plan that aligns with your life.

06/02/2026

Confused by your mortgage preapproval number?

The number is determined by your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Most conventional lenders approve borrowers with a DTI up to 43%, though some may allow higher.

Your DTI threshold reflects the maximum risk a bank is willing to accept. It’s not financial advice or a recommendation. It’s merely a standardized metric intended to protect the lender's investment.

Unfortunately, this calculation doesn't account for real-life expenses such as, childcare, travel, emergency fund, retirement savings, etc. Your goal is to find the number that actually works for your life.

Read more about how to calculate your SWAN number: https://bit.ly/43GrXDd

Need some help? Connect with me today.

05/29/2026

Mortgage rates remain a key factor for homebuyers and homeowners. Recent coverage highlights how rate movement can affect monthly payments, refinancing decisions, and the spring housing market.

If you are considering a purchase or exploring a refinance, now is a good time to review your budget, compare options, and get prequalified so you can act confidently when the right home appears.

What strategies are you using to navigate today’s rate environment, and what information would help you feel more prepared?

The average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage rose this week to 6.38%, according to the latest Freddie Mac data released Thursday. That is up from last week's reading of 6.22%.

05/26/2026

Qualifying for a large mortgage doesn't always mean you should take it on.
At First Horizon, we can help you determine your SWAN number, the mortgage amount that ensures you Sleep Well At Night.

Learn more about how to find a payment that will fit within your lifestyle: https://bit.ly/49qBy4y

Need guidance on calculating your SWAN number? Send me a message, and let's discuss.

05/22/2026

NAHB reports builder sentiment edged higher, signaling cautious optimism in homebuilding. Yet affordability challenges continue to weigh on buyers as rates, costs, and inventory pressures persist.

For clients considering a new build or purchase, staying informed and exploring financing options can make a difference in this evolving market.

What trends are you seeing in your community, and how are affordability factors shaping your plans?

Builder sentiment inched up in March even as builders continue to express affordability concerns stemming from elevated construction costs and shortages of buildable lots and labor.

05/15/2026

Smart tax planning can help you keep more of what you earn.

This CNBC article explores practical ways to maximize wealth through thoughtful tax strategies, from optimizing retirement contributions to tax efficient investing and charitable giving. Reviewing your plan early can uncover new opportunities before year end. Everyone’s situation is different, so consider consulting a qualified tax professional.

What strategies are you exploring this year to make your money work harder?

Building and protecting your wealth is more than just making smart investment decisions. Tax planning is also essential.