Shirlonda Taylor, Community Home Lending Officer NMLS # 416953

Shirlonda Taylor, Community Home Lending Officer NMLS # 416953 I am a Community Home Lending Officer with First Merchants Bank . NMLS # 416953.

Cheers to a new year and new possibilities! 🏡 Thinking about buying a home in 2026? As an attentive mortgage lender, I c...
01/29/2026

Cheers to a new year and new possibilities! 🏡 Thinking about buying a home in 2026? As an attentive mortgage lender, I can help you figure out what works for your budget and create a plan that feels doable.

Drop me a message and let’s chat about what’s possible!
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

When is a cash-out refinance a good idea?It could make sense if you have high interest debt - credit cards carry much hi...
01/27/2026

When is a cash-out refinance a good idea?

It could make sense if you have high interest debt - credit cards carry much higher interest rates than a mortgage. Or, if you have large home improvement projects/repairs, a cash-out refinance can give you access to the funds you need to get it done.

Everyone’s situation is different, and that’s where I come in. I can walk you through the numbers, explain your options in plain language, and help you decide if a cash-out refinance is the right fit for you.

If you want to explore what it could look like for your home, I’m here to help.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

You already know me as your local mortgage lender. But here’s something you might not know:I can help you with a mortgag...
01/22/2026

You already know me as your local mortgage lender. But here’s something you might not know:

I can help you with a mortgage anywhere in the country.

So if you’re moving out of the area, buying a vacation home, or helping family purchase a home in another state, you don’t have to start calling lenders you’ve never met. Stick with someone you know and trust—I’ll make the process simple and stress free.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

The homebuying process is a big deal, and it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why working with a trusted local lender matters...
01/20/2026

The homebuying process is a big deal, and it’s easy to feel lost. That’s why working with a trusted local lender matters. I’ll break things down simply, guide you through every step attentively, and keep your best interests at heart.

📲 Send me a message when you’re ready to chat.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

Thinking about buying a home in 2026? Start with clear goals. - Know your “why”. More space, better location, or buildin...
01/15/2026

Thinking about buying a home in 2026? Start with clear goals.

- Know your “why”. More space, better location, or building equity?

- Decide what monthly payment feels right for your lifestyle, not just what you qualify for.

- Check your credit early so you have time to boost your score if needed.

- Plan ahead for upfront costs like down payment and closing fees, and look into grant programs that can help.

- When you’re ready, get pre-approved for a mortgage —it gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you’re a qualified buyer.

Want to talk through the steps? Send me a message. No cost, no sales pressure, just guidance.

https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

Thinking about buying a home this year? Start by setting clear, realistic goals. Here are a few tips to help you get sta...
01/15/2026

Thinking about buying a home this year? Start by setting clear, realistic goals. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Define Your “Why”

👉 More space, a better location, building equity. Knowing your motivation helps you stay focused on the right things.

Find Your Maximum Monthly Payment

👉 Decide what monthly payment feels comfortable for your lifestyle. Your lender will translate that number into the home price range to shop for.

Check Your Credit Early

👉 Your credit score impacts your loan options and interest rate. Review it now so you have time to make improvements if needed.

Plan for Upfront Costs

👉 Down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses add up. Start saving or explore grant programs that can help reduce these costs.

Get Pre-Approved

👉 When you’re ready to get serious about buying, apply for a pre-approval with a mortgage lender. This will give you a clear picture of the financing options you may qualify for.

📲 Need someone to talk through these steps with? Send me a message. There’s never any cost or obligation to get advice. I’m here to help.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

When you’re ready to upgrade to your next home, there are a few options for financing. Here are some common strategies:1...
01/13/2026

When you’re ready to upgrade to your next home, there are a few options for financing. Here are some common strategies:

1. Carry Two Mortgages Temporarily
If you’ve saved enough for the down payment and your budget allows, you can buy your new home before selling and pay both mortgages (plus maintenance and utilities) for a short period.

2. Use a Bridge Loan
If you need access to down payment money in order to buy before selling, a short-term bridge loan can “bridge” the gap so you can buy now and repay later. It’s convenient but comes with interest and fees.

3. Get a Home Equity Line of Credit
Tap into the equity in your current home to cover the down payment on your next one. You’ll pay it back after your old home sells, making this a flexible option if you have equity available.

4. Recast Your Mortgage After Selling
Once your old home sells, request a mortgage recast and apply the proceeds as a lump sum toward your new mortgage. Your lender recalculates your monthly payment based on the lower balance without refinancing.

5. Make a Contingent Offer
Not a financing tool, but worth mentioning: you can make your new home purchase contingent on selling your current home. It’s less risky financially but can make your offer less competitive.

âś… Tip: The best option depends on your timeline, equity, and comfort level with carrying two homes temporarily. A mortgage professional can help you compare costs and risks. Message me to discuss your situation.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

Mortgage rates will remain in the low 6% range this year, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association and the National...
01/08/2026

Mortgage rates will remain in the low 6% range this year, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association and the National Association of Realtors. Fannie Mae predicts rates could fall to 5.9% by the end of the year.

We’re not expecting a huge drop in rates. If buying a home is on your radar, plan for rates in the 6% range.

📅 Message me to schedule a short planning call. I’ll help you figure out your budget and develop a game plan based on these rates.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Thinking about refinancing? It’s simpler than it sounds. First, get clear on your goal – whether that’s lowering your mo...
01/06/2026

Thinking about refinancing? It’s simpler than it sounds. First, get clear on your goal – whether that’s lowering your monthly payment, shortening your loan term, or pulling out equity. Next, review your current mortgage details and compare rates to see what’s available. From there, you’ll apply for a new loan that will replace the old mortgage. You’ll go through appraisal, underwriting, and loan closing processes, just like when you bought your home.

A refinance can be a smart move, but it’s not always the right fit for everyone. If you’re wondering whether it makes sense for you, let’s talk. Message me for a free refinance analysis!
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

The average age of first-time homebuyers just hit 40 years old.That’s up from:✅ 38 in 2024✅ 33 in 2020✅ 29 in 1990This t...
12/24/2025

The average age of first-time homebuyers just hit 40 years old.

That’s up from:

âś… 38 in 2024
âś… 33 in 2020
âś… 29 in 1990

This trend means the next generation is missing out on a decade of potential equity and wealth-building opportunities.

If you’ve been waiting to buy your first home, now might be the time to rethink your strategy. Let’s talk about how you can start building wealth sooner rather than later. We have programs that can help!

đź“© Message me today to explore your options.
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

As 2025 slips through the hourglass, it’s time to plan for what’s next. Whether you’re dreaming of a new home, consideri...
12/22/2025

As 2025 slips through the hourglass, it’s time to plan for what’s next. Whether you’re dreaming of a new home, considering a move, or thinking about refinancing, the start of a new year is the perfect moment to set your goals in motion.

Don’t let time run out on your dreams – reach out to schedule a free planning call today!
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Most people have no idea what’s actually available to help them buy a home.And that lack of info is holding them back fr...
12/17/2025

Most people have no idea what’s actually available to help them buy a home.

And that lack of info is holding them back from building equity, wealth, and stability.

Homebuyers could receive thousands of dollars in down payment assistance if they qualify:

➤ Based on income

➤ Or the neighborhood they’re buying in

This year alone, we’ve helped folks access over $4.3 million in down payment assistance.

That’s real money helping real people become homeowners.

If you’ve been thinking, “I can’t afford to buy right now,” you might be surprised. Let’s chat and see what you qualify for. 🏡
https://myoc.io/shirlonda

Address

6101 Harrison Street
Merrillville, IN
46410

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