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Howard Roberts, V.P. Mortgage Consultant, NMLS #619310

Home
United States
Monroe, MI
Howard Roberts, V.P. Mortgage Consultant, NMLS #619310

Mortgage Banker at First Merchants Bank with over 25 years of experience helping families buy & build

09/07/2026

Buying a home is a big move. Sometimes that move takes you across state lines.

As a mortgage lender licensed in all 50 states, I can help my clients navigate their home financing needs without having to start over with a new lender when their plans take them elsewhere.

If a move is in your future, let's talk about your options.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

09/02/2026

No matter where you are on your homeownership journey, I'm here to help you explore your options.

At First Merchants, we offer:

✅ Low down payment mortgage options

✅ Down payment assistance and grant programs

✅ Construction and renovation loans

✅ Refinance solutions tailored to your goals

If you’re interested in setting up a free planning call, simply send me a message.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

08/31/2026

Lenders calculate your DTI to help determine how much home you may qualify for.

DTI = Monthly debt payments ÷ Monthly income (before taxes)

What counts toward DTI?

✅ Current rent or future mortgage payment
✅ Car loans, student loans, personal loans
✅ Credit card minimum monthly payments
✅ Child support or alimony
✅ Buy Now, Pay Later obligations (Affirm, Klarna, Afterpay, etc.)
✅ Other recurring debt payments

What doesn't count?

❌ Utilities
❌ Cell phone and internet bills
❌ Groceries
❌ Childcare expenses
❌ Streaming subscriptions
❌ Other day-to-day living expenses

A good DTI ratio is 36% or lower. However, many lenders will accept up to 43%.

Thinking about buying a home? Let's talk through your numbers – send me a message to start the conversation.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

08/26/2026

Even with today’s higher mortgage rates, refinancing can still be a useful financial tool.

Homeowners who have built equity may use a cash-out refinance to consolidate higher-interest debt, pay for home improvements, or help fund major expenses. The key is determining whether the overall financial benefit outweighs the costs.

Message me anytime for a free refinance analysis. I’ll look at the full picture, including your current mortgage, new loan terms, monthly payment, closing costs, and long-term goals, to help you make an informed decision.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

08/24/2026

Before you start touring homes, know the number that matters most: the monthly payment you’re comfortable with.

A mortgage pre-approval can help you understand your options, but a good conversation with a lender should also include your budget, goals, and the kind of lifestyle you want after you move in.

Want to get clear on your numbers? Message me to schedule a free budget planning call.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

08/19/2026

From January through June 2026, First Merchants helped 310 families access a total of $2.95 million in down payment assistance to make their home purchase more affordable.

If you know anyone looking to buy their first home, reach out to me and my team. We may have a program that can help cover some (or all) of their down payment and closing costs.

08/17/2026

Waiting for a certain interest rate isn't the same as being prepared to buy.

The most prepared buyers aren't just watching the market. They're getting clear on their budget, savings goals, and what homeownership will mean for their overall finances.

That's where I can help.

Whether you're planning to buy in the next few months or simply exploring your options, we can talk through the numbers and create a plan that makes sense for you.

Message me anytime for a no-pressure conversation.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

08/12/2026

Life changes, and your mortgage strategy may need to change with it.

Need to access home equity or consolidate higher-interest debt?
⤷ Refinancing could be an option.

Thinking about home additions, updates, or improvements?
⤷ Construction or renovation financing may help.

Need to upsize or downsize for this stage of life?
⤷ Let’s review financing scenarios and talk through what may make sense.

📩 Message me to schedule a free consultation and review your options.

08/10/2026

The most recent Survey of Consumer Finances data (from 2022) reveals that both the median and average wealth gaps have reached historic highs since the data was first collected in 1989.

The median wealth gap between homeowners and renters has increased by 70 percent, while the average wealth gap increased more than 250 percent.

If you’ve been on the fence about owning a home, dive into the details here:
https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/wealth-gap-between-homeowners-and-renters-has-reached-historic-high

08/05/2026

We have excellent financing options for second homes and vacation homes at First Merchants. Very competitive pricing. If you know someone who is considering a lakefront property, I’d love the opportunity to help them.
https://myoc.io/efmFMOr2zYO

Address

10 Washington Street
Monroe, MI
48161

Telephone

+17347700678

Website

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