Chris Ekeler - Pillar Financial Mortgage - NMLS #1127980

10/29/2026

🚨 Under Contract? Hit Pause Before Making These Money Moves.

You’re close to getting the keys. The last thing you want is an unexpected financial change complicating your mortgage.

Before closing, talk with your lender before you:

❌ Finance a new car or make another major purchase.
❌ Open a new credit card or take on new debt.
❌ Change jobs or make a major change to how you’re paid.

These moves don’t automatically stop a mortgage from closing, but they can affect your financial picture and may require the lender to review your file again.

When in doubt, call first. A quick conversation can help you avoid an unnecessary surprise.

Chris Ekeler | Pillar Mortgage
📞 402-714-0889
NMLS #1127980
Secure Online Application: http://chrischarlesekeler.zipforhome.com/

10/28/2026

🎉 The Offer Was Accepted! Now the Mortgage Process Gets Moving.

Getting your offer accepted is a big milestone—but there are still important steps between contract and closing.

Here’s what typically comes next:

🏡 Your lender reviews the contract and updates your loan file.
📄 You provide any outstanding documents.
🔍 The property appraisal and other required reviews get underway.
✅ Underwriting reviews the file and may request additional information.
🔑 Once the required conditions are satisfied, you move toward closing.

One important tip: stay in touch with your lender and respond quickly when documents are requested. It can help keep things moving smoothly.

Have an accepted offer or getting ready to make one? I’m here to help you understand what comes next.

Chris Ekeler | Pillar Mortgage
📞 402-714-0889
NMLS #1127980
Secure Online Application: http://chrischarlesekeler.zipforhome.com/

10/27/2026

🏡 Your Mortgage Payment Is More Than Just the Loan.

When you're budgeting for a home, don't look at principal and interest alone.

Your monthly housing payment may also include:

✅ Property taxes
✅ Homeowners insurance
✅ Mortgage insurance, if applicable
✅ HOA dues, if the property has them

Two homes with similar prices can have different monthly costs depending on taxes, insurance, loan terms, and other expenses.

Before you fall in love with a house, let's look at the full monthly picture—not just the purchase price.

Chris Ekeler | Pillar Mortgage
📞 402-714-0889
NMLS #1127980
Secure Online Application: http://chrischarlesekeler.zipforhome.com/

10/15/2026

The First Lender Said NO

Got Told No on a Mortgage? Don't Assume the conversation is over.

A mortgage decision can depend on more than one number.

Income documentation, credit history, debt obligations, available funds, property type, and the loan program can all matter.

A different lender or program won't guarantee approval, but reviewing the full picture may uncover options you haven't considered.

Before you give up on the goal, let's understand what happened and whether there's another path worth exploring.

One answer doesn't have to end the conversation.

Chris Ekeler | Pillar Mortgage
📞 402-714-0889
NMLS #1127980
Secure Online Application
Http://chrischarlesekeler.zipforhome.com/

10/14/2026

10/14/2026

The Tax Write-Off Trap

Business Owners: Your Tax Strategy Could Affect Your Mortgage.

You work hard to build your business. You write off legitimate expenses to help manage your tax bill.

But when it's time to buy a home, those deductions can sometimes make your qualifying income look lower than you expect.

and explore your options.

Chris Ekeler | Pillar Mortgage
📞 402-714-0889
NMLS #1127980
Secure Online Application

That doesn't automatically mean you can't qualify.

Depending on your circumstances, we may be able to evaluate your income differently and structure your financing.

Self-employed and thinking about buying? Talk to me before assuming the answer is no.

Let's review your situation