Amanda Powell - Loan Officer Nmls#2526521

07/18/2026

Think the credit score you see online is the same one your lender uses? Not always.

One of the most common questions I get is:

"Why is the score you pulled different from my Credit Karma score?"

The answer is simple: they're usually not looking at the same scoring model.

Mortgage lenders use specialized versions of your FICO® Score that are designed specifically for mortgage lending. Many consumer apps, including Credit Karma, use a different scoring model altogether. Neither score is necessarily "wrong"—they're just calculated differently for different purposes.

That's why it's important not to assume you won't qualify based on a score you see online.

A mortgage application is about much more than one number. It's reviewing your documentation, verifying income, evaluating loan options, and making sure your loan is structured to give you the best chance of a smooth closing.

Preparation matters. So does getting the right information from the right source.

Have you checked your score on another site just to realize it was not what you thought it was?

Questions - message me or email [email protected]

07/17/2026

This Sunday, our church will be hosting a Backpack Giveaway on the Voodoo Lawn in New Kensington.

We'll be giving away school supplies to help local students start the school year with confidence. There will also be church at 10:00 AM, followed by hot dogs and macaroni & cheese for everyone who joins us.

If you're looking for a way to connect with the community or know a family who could benefit, we'd love to see you there.

Sunday, July 19
10:00 AM
Voodoo Lawn – New Kensington

I love being part of a community that comes together to support one another. I hope to see you there.

07/16/2026

Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?

Absolutely.

A pre-approval helps you understand your budget, strengthens your offer, and can help prevent surprises later in the process.

The goal isn't just getting a pre-approval letter—it's making sure you have a clear plan before you start shopping.

Give me a call or email at [email protected]

07/16/2026

"Should I get pre-approved before looking at homes?"

Absolutely.

A pre-approval helps you understand your budget, strengthens your offer, and can help prevent surprises later in the process.

The goal isn't just getting a pre-approval letter—it's making sure you have a clear plan before you start shopping.

07/15/2026

Myth: You need 20% down to buy a home.

Fact: Many loan programs allow qualified buyers to purchase with much less. Depending on the loan program, you may qualify with as little as 3% down—or even no down payment for certain eligible borrowers.

Every buyer's situation is different, so it's worth exploring your options before assuming you need years to save.

If you're wondering what you might qualify for, I'd be happy to help.

Give me a call or email at [email protected]!

07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Independence Day as we celebrate 250 years of American freedom. I hope you enjoy time with those you love, take a moment to reflect on the blessings we share, and have a wonderful holiday.

God Bless America, and stay safe!

04/23/2026

If we haven’t talked in a while — or if you’re newer here — I wanted to reintroduce myself.

I’m Amanda Powell, a mortgage loan originator based in Western Pennsylvania. I work a lot throughout Armstrong and Westmoreland Counties, but I also help buyers across Pennsylvania every day.

A big part of what I do is helping people understand what is actually possible before they start making major financial decisions.

That means real conversations about monthly payment, financing options, credit, property type, rural properties, and the issues that can either make a deal smooth or create problems later if they are not caught early.

I work with first-time buyers, repeat buyers, refinances, conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and situations that do not always fit neatly into a standard box.

One thing I care a lot about: just because someone is approved for a number does not mean that number makes sense for their life. Approval and affordability are not always the same thing, and that matters.

If you have been thinking about buying, refinancing, or simply want to understand where you stand, I am always happy to have a conversation.

724-713-7928

NMLS 2526521
Powered by Loan Factory NMLS #320841

Call now to connect with business.

04/16/2026

People rule themselves out every day over credit scores, income, old debt, or things they assume are automatic no’s.

Meanwhile, I have seen approvals happen in situations people already decided were impossible.

04/10/2026

https://triblive.com/local/valley-news-dispatch/riverside-drive-in-only-1-in-alle-kiski-valley-fights-to-keep-the-show-going/?fbclid=IwY2xjawRGXDZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeFWJj0kOdTqmNbea332LkRtWbfFFAreRiKwI-dSnY6zYw7qCXUlDPY1knJps_aem_Oj1Rifv3FWKL6CvGYH-IJw

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” blared across the massive screen at Riverside Drive-In on April 2 to mark opening night of the 2026 season at the Parks Township theater. But owners were quick to say that without recent community support, the screen would have remained dark. A GoFund Me or...

04/09/2026

The market has given us a little breathing room lately, but it still doesn’t take much for things to shift. Sometimes the smartest move is just knowing where you stand before the next headline changes everything.

Amanda Powell
NMLS 2526521 Powered by Loan Factory NMLS #320841
724-713-7928

Send a message to learn more