Lorre Buhler - Branch Manager

11/01/2024

I have retired from mortgage origination effective Nov. 1, 2024. Aric Buhler, my son and loan partner, will be taking over this role. Please contact Aric Buhler at 605-415-7395.

Aric's journey in the mortgage industry commenced in March 2020 when he stepped into the role of Loan Partner. Despite the challenging start with the onset of pandemic-related closures, Aric found himself in a fortuitous learning environment alongside Lorre, his mentor, for approximately nine months...

10/07/2024

Want to improve your mortgage chances? Start by lowering your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI):

Pay Down Debt: Focus on high-interest loans first.
Increase Income: Any boost to your earnings helps!
Avoid New Debt: Hold off on big purchases or new credit.

A lower DTI can help you secure a better mortgage rate and increase approval odds.

10/05/2024

Is it time to give your kitchen countertop an upgrade? With all the different materials out there to choose from, you'll want to keep these factors in mind: stain resistance, heat resistance, scratch & chip resistance, easy maintenance, and price.

Share your favorite countertop material below!

10/04/2024

Rates moved lower during the week ending 10/4/24 despite speculation the Fed may not cut rates as aggressively as expected. Granite Bank is an Equal Housing Lender.

Markets in a Minute

10/02/2024

Thinking of buying a home? Here are a few ways you can save money on your monthly payments:



Temporary buydowns: Consider a buydown to reduce your mortgage rate for the first few years. This strategy can help lower your early mortgage payments, allowing better cash flow as you settle into your new home.



Increase your down payment: Putting down more money upfront doesn't necessarily lower your interest rate, but it does reduce the overall loan amount and your monthly payments. This can be especially beneficial in managing long-term costs.



Discount Points: Discount points can help combat high mortgage rates by allowing you to lower their interest rates upfront, resulting in more affordable monthly payments over the life of the loan.



Reach out today to see how you can take advantage of some money saving tips and see which options are right for you!

09/30/2024

What is homeowners insurance escrow? Here’s a quick breakdown:



Definition: Homeowners insurance escrow is an account where a portion of your mortgage payment is set aside to cover your insurance premiums.



Monthly contributions: A small amount from each mortgage payment goes into this account, ensuring you have funds available to pay your insurance when it is due.



Automatic payments: The escrow account handles your insurance payments automatically, so you do not have to worry about missing due dates.



Benefits: It helps manage large annual insurance bills by spreading the cost over monthly payments, making budgeting easier.



Account management: Your lender manages the escrow account, ensuring your insurance premiums are paid on time.



Understanding homeowners insurance escrow helps keep your insurance coverage current and simplifies financial planning. Got questions? Let’s discuss!

09/28/2024

Which do you prefer for your bed frame—a modern upholstered look or a classic wood frame? Let me know in the comments below!

09/27/2024

Mortgage rates softened on news of the Fed rate cut during the week ending 9/27/2024, then unexpectedly climbed slightly. Granite Bank is an Equal Housing Lender.

Markets in a Minute

09/25/2024

Thinking about buying a home but need a boost? A cosigner can help! Here’s how:
Boost your application: A cosigner with strong credit can improve your chances of approval and potentially secure better loan terms.
Increase your borrowing power: With a cosigner, you might qualify for a larger loan amount, helping you find the home you really want.
Build credit : For the cosigner, it’s a chance to help someone achieve their homeownership goals while possibly improving their own credit score.
Shared Responsibility: Both you and the cosigner will be responsible for the loan, which can ease the financial burden and make homeownership more attainable.
Ready to explore how a cosigner could help you? Message me for more information!

09/23/2024

Thinking about purchasing a home with your partner? Here are some essential questions you should answer together to make sure you’re both ready. Best of luck to you on this exciting milestone!

09/20/2024

Mortgage rates bounced around but finished the week ending 9/20/24 down slightly after the September Fed meeting. Granite Bank is an Equal Housing Lender.

Markets in a Minute