Scott Estlund with Novus Home Mortgage

03/13/2026

Happy Friday the 13th, everyone. 🖤
In the spirit of the day, let's talk about some genuinely scary myths in the mortgage world that I wish would die like a horror movie villain — but just. keep. coming. back.
🔪 'You need perfect credit to buy a house.'
Nope. There are solid loan programs available for credit scores well below what most people assume.
🔪 'You have to be at your job for at least 2 years before you can qualify.'
Not always. It depends on your field, your history, and your overall profile.
🔪 'Getting pre-approved will tank your credit score.'
A mortgage inquiry has minimal impact. Don't let this one keep you from knowing where you stand.
🔪 'The bank I've always used will give me the best rate.'
Loyalty is great. Shopping your mortgage? Also great. Not always the same thing.
Look — Friday the 13th gets a bad rap. So does the mortgage process.
Neither one is as scary as people make it out to be. 🏡
Have a great weekend Central Wisconsin — try not to walk under any ladders. 😄

03/04/2026

Florida may be flirting with the biggest housing cost headline in years. Property taxes could be dramatically reduced for many primary residences. And that would reshape monthly payments overnight.

Here is what is being discussed in plain English. A proposal moving through Tallahassee would phase out most non-school property taxes on homesteaded homes over time, while school district taxes would still apply. Because it is a constitutional change, it would require voter approval if it advances.

For homebuyers, this matters because property taxes are baked into your total monthly payment. If taxes drop, more buyers could qualify, which can add fuel to demand and competition. If the plan stalls or gets challenged, the payment you planned on may not change at all.

For Realtors and referral partners, expect more seller conversations about timing, pricing, and how to market future savings. Also expect more buyer urgency if people think the carrying cost is about to improve. At the same time, local service funding questions could keep the story evolving, which means uncertainty stays in the mix.

One clear takeaway. Underwrite your budget on today’s taxes, not tomorrow’s headlines. If the savings arrive later, it is a bonus, not a requirement.

If you work with Florida clients, are you seeing people accelerate plans because of this proposal, or wait for clarity?

03/03/2026

When global headlines shift, the mortgage market listens.

You may have seen the news about the recent military strikes involving the U.S. and Iran. This conflict has immediately impacted the financial markets, causing a sudden tug of war with interest rates. Geopolitical uncertainty often creates two competing reactions in the bond market. On one hand, investors often seek safety in U.S. Treasuries, which can pull rates lower. On the other hand, rising oil prices create fears of inflation, which typically pushes rates higher.

Right now, the market is primarily reacting to the spike in energy costs. The 10 year Treasury yield has climbed back above the 4% mark this morning. This move signals that investors are worried about sticky inflation. Higher bond yields directly influence the daily rate sheets used for home loans. We are seeing a pause in the downward trend that recently brought rates into the high 5% range.

Volatility is the new normal for the spring 2026 market. You should expect daily fluctuations as the situation in the Middle East develops. A stable plan remains your best defense against headline news. Do not let short term swings derail your long term housing goals. Focus on the math of the deal rather than the noise of the day.

The Takeaway: Geopolitical tension is currently causing rate volatility by driving up oil prices and inflation fears.

If you were planning to lock in a rate this week, does this news change your timing?

02/13/2026

The Downpayment Plus Program isn't just about covering your down payment; it's about setting you up for long-term success. 🌟

Grant funds may also be used for:

✅ Closing costs

✅ Escrow reserves

✅ Homeownership education & counseling

✅ Interest rate reduction

Message me today to find out if the Downpayment Plus Program could be right for you!

05/27/2025

05/20/2025

What Buyers Need To Know About Homeowners Association Fees

When buying a home, you’re probably thinking about mortgage rates, home prices, your down payment, and maybe even your closing costs. But you may not be thinking about homeowners association (HOA) fees.

05/19/2025

Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of 2025

Are you wondering what to expect if you buy or sell a home in the second half of the year? Here’s what the expert forecasts tell you.

05/13/2025

05/12/2025

Stocks May Be Volatile, but Home Values Aren’t

With all the uncertainty in the economy, the stock market has been bouncing around more than usual.