Bilal The Lender

Bilal The Lender Serve our customers with honesty and integrity. Pledge to help borrowers overcome roadblocks that can arise while securing a loan. NMLS:983663

09/17/2026

U.S. VA Loans vs. Conventional Loans
When it comes to choosing between a VA loan and a conventional loan, understanding the nuances can make a real difference in your home financing journey. VA loans are designed for veterans, current service members, and some surviving spouses, providing an option for those who may have limited down payment savings or a higher debt-to-income ratio. In exchange for a one-time funding fee, VA borrowers avoid annual mortgage insurance costs. On the other hand, conventional loans are open to anyone who meets a lender’s financial requirements and can be particularly cost-effective if you can put down 20%—eliminating the need for mortgage insurance—and are also available for second homes or investment properties.

With over 20 years in mortgage lending, I’ve guided clients through both options, always focusing on their unique financial picture. Comparing rates and fees for each loan type, and running the numbers with a calculator, is a smart way to see what fits your needs and goals. If you’re weighing your options, working with someone experienced in both VA and conventional loans can help clarify which path aligns best with your long-term plans. My priority is to ensure your financing supports not just your immediate goals, but your future as well.

09/16/2026

California's Down Payment Wait: 14.7 Years
It’s a sobering reality for many aspiring homeowners in California: on average, it now takes 14.7 years to save up a 20% down payment for a typical home, which currently sits at $776,200 with a median household income of $105,600. For those earning minimum wage, that savings timeline stretches to an astonishing 44.2 years. The Pacific to the west and mountains to the east have concentrated housing along costly coastal corridors, while long-standing tax incentives make moving unattractive for many owners. Meanwhile, robust job growth in tech and health care continues to attract new residents, adding further pressure to the market.

As someone who’s spent over two decades navigating these dynamics with buyers across California, I know how crucial it is for first-time buyers to plan ahead—especially when wage growth still lags behind soaring home prices. My approach has always been rooted in clear guidance and creative solutions, whether you’re just starting out, looking to expand your portfolio, or considering a move. Understanding the landscape is the first step to making confident, informed decisions about your path to homeownership.

09/15/2026

How to Choose a Mortgage Lender (2026)
With two decades in mortgage lending, I’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right lender can make all the difference in your home buying or refinancing journey. The process isn’t just about rates—it’s about understanding your mortgage options, comparing loan types and fees, and evaluating how well a lender communicates and delivers on closing promises. I always recommend clients confirm who will service their loan, get prequalified early, and ask plenty of detailed questions. Taking time to review and compare written offers side by side helps ensure you’re making a decision that supports your financial goals for years to come. My commitment is to guide you through these steps so you feel confident and informed at every turn.

09/14/2026

LA County Prices Hold Near $900K
LA County’s housing market continues to test buyers’ resilience, with the median price for existing single-family homes reaching $888,100 in Early-Q3—just shy of the $900,000 mark, following a 2.6% dip from last year’s $911,400. Sales activity also eased, down 0.9% year over year, as affordability remains a challenge for many. The ongoing combination of elevated prices and mortgage rates in the upper-6% range has certainly made monthly payments a hurdle for many families and investors. As someone who has helped clients navigate changing markets for over two decades, I see how these dynamics impact both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners. If inventory expands and rates continue to ease from their recent peaks, the coming months could open up more opportunities for those looking to buy in LA County. Staying informed and prepared is key to securing the right financing in this evolving landscape.

Can You Get a Mortgage When You Owe the IRS?Wondering if you can still qualify for a mortgage when you owe back taxes to...
09/13/2026

Can You Get a Mortgage When You Owe the IRS?
Wondering if you can still qualify for a mortgage when you owe back taxes to the IRS? This is a common concern I hear from clients across Nevada, California, and beyond. The good news: it is possible to buy or refinance a home even if you have outstanding tax debt. By setting up an IRS payment plan and being upfront about your situation, you can often move forward—some loan programs will even work with you if there’s a tax lien, provided your payments are current. Transparency is key here, not just for loan approval, but also to avoid any complications down the line. As someone who’s guided many clients through similar scenarios, I always recommend addressing these details early to ensure a smooth, stress-free financing experience tailored to your needs.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/saba-akber/1816441-Can-You-Get-a-Mortgage-When-You-Owe-the-IRS%3F

Can I get a Home Loan with Bad Credit?Over my 20 years in mortgage lending, I’ve seen many clients wonder if buying a ho...
09/12/2026

Can I get a Home Loan with Bad Credit?
Over my 20 years in mortgage lending, I’ve seen many clients wonder if buying a home is possible with less-than-perfect credit. The good news: it can be. There are government-backed loan programs designed with flexible credit requirements, which means those with challenging credit histories still have options. Often, a larger down payment or having a co-signer can strengthen your application, though it’s important to be mindful that interest rates may be higher in these scenarios. In my experience, taking steps to improve your credit score and carefully considering what’s truly affordable are key moves before making a purchase. Every situation is unique, and I’m committed to guiding clients toward the path that aligns with their long-term financial goals.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/saba-akber/1897411-Can-I-get-a-Home-Loan-with-Bad-Credit%3F

How Rising Mortgage Rates Reflect a Stronger EconomyWith mortgage rates remaining elevated, many clients are asking why—...
09/11/2026

How Rising Mortgage Rates Reflect a Stronger Economy
With mortgage rates remaining elevated, many clients are asking why—and what this means for their plans. The answer lies largely in how 10-year Treasury yields, which are closely tied to inflation, continue to drive rates higher. There’s even speculation that we could see mortgage rates approach 7% before year’s end. At the same time, home prices are rising at a slower pace, and we’re seeing more sellers than buyers in the market. This shift has led to increased price reductions, giving buyers more room for negotiation and opportunity. Drawing from my 20+ years in mortgage lending, I know how important it is to understand these market dynamics when planning your next move, whether you’re purchasing your first home, refinancing, or investing. My focus is always on guiding clients through these changes with tailored solutions that fit their long-term goals.
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/saba-akber/1899984-How-Rising-Mortgage-Rates-Reflect-a-Stronger-Economy

09/10/2026

California Prop 37 Second-Mortgage Program
This fall, California voters will weigh in on Prop 37—a proposal to create a second-mortgage program designed for eligible middle-income buyers. The initiative would provide up to $25 million in bonds via the state housing agency, opening a new pathway for those looking to purchase a home. To qualify, buyers must have lived in California for at least a year, plan to occupy the home within 60 days, earn at or below 200% of the area median income, and put down at least 3%.

Eligible properties include newly built single-family homes, townhomes, row houses, condos, and converted buildings. The program would cap second mortgages at 17%, with the first mortgage covering the remaining costs. Supporters hope this will expand homeownership and spur new construction, while critics point out that monthly second-mortgage payments and strict eligibility may still present hurdles for many buyers.

As someone who has helped buyers navigate California’s ever-changing mortgage landscape for over two decades, I recognize both the promise and the complexities of programs like this. Understanding the details can make all the difference when planning your next move. Whether Prop 37 passes or not, staying informed is key to making confident home financing decisions.

09/09/2026

California: $212K Income to Buy a Home
The numbers tell a tough story for California homebuyers right now: with the median home price hovering around $930K, households need an annual income of about $212K to compete—almost double the typical ~$116K income. Even with steady jobs, solid savings, and responsible financial habits, many families are finding homeownership just out of reach. In the Bay Area, homes often list closer to $1.4M, making the idea of owning a home feel more like a luxury than ever before. While strategies like saving more, reducing debt, or considering areas farther from major job centers can help, the reality is that budgeting alone won’t bridge every gap. As a mortgage professional serving California and beyond, I see firsthand how today’s affordability challenges are reshaping what homeownership means for working families. My focus remains on helping clients navigate these complexities and explore all their financing options to make the best possible decisions for their futures.

09/08/2026

Prop 37 Would Create Second-Mortgage Homebuyer Program
California voters are set to weigh in on Proposition 37—a proposed $25 million bond-funded second-mortgage program designed to support middle-income buyers in purchasing homes. The goal is to make homeownership more accessible and encourage new construction, though there are valid debates around the potential risks and costs for taxpayers. Having spent over two decades guiding clients through the complexities of home financing, I’ve seen firsthand how creative programs like this can offer new pathways for buyers who may not fit traditional lending molds. As someone who works closely with both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners in California and Nevada, I understand how important it is to weigh both the opportunities and the long-term implications of such initiatives when considering your next move in real estate.

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Rancho Cucamonga, CA

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