Steve Reed Branch Manager Benchmark Home Loans

09/02/2026

Homeownership starts with a plan—not necessarily a giant down payment. 😉🏡 If buying your first home is on your radar, let’s look at the programs and options that could work for you.

09/02/2026

09/01/2026

Being self-employed has a funny little catch… 😅

Your tax pro works hard to legally lower your taxable income. Then you apply for a mortgage and the lender says, “You don’t make enough.”
Wait… what?! 🤦‍♀️

That’s because mortgage qualifying income isn’t always as simple as what you actually bring in.
Lenders typically review your tax returns—often two years—and look at things like:
🏠 Taxable income
📊 Business income trends
➕ Certain deductions that may be added back, like depreciation
📄 The specific loan program and its guidelines

And here’s the important part: one lender saying “no” doesn’t always mean the answer is no. Different programs may calculate self-employed income differently.

If buying a home is on your radar in the next year or two, talk with your tax professional AND a mortgage lender before filing.

Already been told you don’t qualify? Your file may be worth a second look.

09/01/2026

Sellers Outnumber Buyers Right Now

08/31/2026

Piggy banks are cute. 🐷💰
Knowing what to do with the money inside? Even better.
These 5 simple habits can help kids learn that money isn’t just for spending—it’s also about saving, planning, working toward goals, and helping others. ❤️
Start small. Those lessons add up!

08/29/2026

Sellers Are Cutting Prices To Meet Buyers Where They're At

You're scrolling through listings on your phone and everything looks good until you see the price (or the estimated monthly payment). Then you close the app.

08/28/2026

Most Home Sales Close – Here’s How To Keep Yours on Track

Few things are as rattling as the thought of your home sale falling through at the last minute, right before closing. All that waiting, all that progress, out the window.

08/28/2026

THREE closings to celebrate! 🎉🏡🔑

Congratulations to these three families on officially closing on their new homes! Here’s to fresh starts, new traditions, and plenty of great memories ahead. ❤️

A huge thank you to the amazing real estate agents who helped make it all happen. Great communication + great teamwork = happy closing days!

Cheers to new homes and a great way to head into the weekend! 🥳

🏠 Sam Taylor | Property Experts | 423-631-0400

🏠 Dana Berry | Lifestyle Properties | 423-677-2333

🏠 Daphanie Roberts | Property Executives Johnson City | 423-952-0226