Damian Sanchez NMLS #1102071

08/27/2026

One of the biggest myths I hear from buyers :

“I don’t have 20% saved, so I guess I’m not ready to buy.”

In reality, most of my first time and move up buyers put far less than 20% down and use a mix of:

• Local or national down payment assistance programs
• Gifts from family
• Carefully planned 401(k) or retirement strategies
• Savings and sometimes seller credits

If homeownership or a “next home” is on your mind in the next 12–24 months, it’s worth finding out what’s actually possible instead of guessing.

Want a quick rundown of which down payment options might fit your situation? Comment ‘DPA’ or send me a message.

Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York. Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply. Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Restrictions apply.

08/25/2026

For Tuesday’s Tip with Damian Sanchez, VP of Mortgage Lending with Rate., I want to share something I discuss often with investors and move up buyers: focus on total cost, not just purchase price.

Smart decisions come from looking at:

• The full monthly payment: principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA
• Renovation or upgrade costs you plan to take on
• Ongoing costs like utilities, maintenance, and potential vacancy (for investors)

Sometimes the better long term move is a property with a slightly higher price but stronger efficiency, lower upkeep, or better rental potential.

If you’re comparing properties or debating whether to renovate, I’m happy to help you look at the numbers side by side so you can make a clear, informed decision.

Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York. Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply.

08/21/2026

How much equity do you have in your home? Have you thought about using it for other things?

Get HELOC approval in minutes, funding as fast as 5 days with no upfront costs. Learn more about home equity line of credit (HELOC) options & apply today!

08/20/2026

A lot of homeowners in New Mexico are sitting on more equity than they realize.
That equity can sometimes be used to:

• Consolidate high interest credit cards
• Pay off personal loans or car loans
• Free up monthly cash flow for savings or future goals

A cash out refinance or HELOC isn’t right for everyone, but for the right homeowner, it can turn a stressful monthly budget into a manageable one.

Using funds from a Cash-out Refinance to consolidate debt may result in the debt taking longer to pay off as it will be combined with borrower’s mortgage principle amount and will be paid off over the full loan term. Contact Rate for more information.

Rate's HELOC is a fixed-rate open-end product using your home as collateral. Not available in all states. Go to Rate.com/HELOC for information including important property and borrower requirements and restrictions which impact rate and max available loan amount. Subject to approval.

If you’re a homeowner in central New Mexico and wondering, “Could my equity be working harder for me?” I’m happy to walk through some numbers with you and talk about pros and cons.

“Comment ‘EQUITY’ or message me privately if you’d like to see a simple before and after payment comparison.”

Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York. Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply. Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Restrictions apply.

Get HELOC approval in minutes, funding as fast as 5 days with no upfront costs. Learn more about home equity line of credit (HELOC) options & apply today!

08/18/2026

Today’s Tuesday’s Tip is for anyone who’s self employed or has a side business with Damian Sanchez, VP of Mortgage Lending with Rate.

From a lending perspective, your tax returns tell your income story.
When you write off a lot of expenses, you may reduce your tax bill, but you can also reduce the income we’re allowed to use to qualify you for a mortgage.

Before you file your next return, it can be smart to:

• Review how your income is likely to be calculated for a mortgage
• Understand what level of income supports the price range you have in mind
• Coordinate with your tax professional so your homeownership goals and tax strategy work together

If you’re self employed and thinking about buying within the next year, reach out before you file. A quick review now can save a lot of frustration later.

Operating as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. in New York. Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Rate; NMLS #2611; Rate.com; For licensing information visit nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Housing Lender. Conditions may apply.

08/13/2026

08/13/2026

A home is not just where you live. It is where you gather the people who matter and make the nights worth remembering. When the space is yours, every plan gets a little easier to say yes to.

Let me know in the comments which event would come first on your calendar. And when you're ready to start your homeownership journey, I'd be happy to help you explore your options.
https://myoc.io/KWzay/HSCoE



NMLS # 1102071

08/12/2026

Renting can be the right fit for a season. But when your goals start changing, it may be time to understand what ownership could make possible.

I can help you compare the numbers and plan for what comes next.
https://myoc.io/KWzay/rjLNI



NMLS # 1102071

08/11/2026

Decreasing existing-home sales and a stubborn mortgage rate creates opportunity if you know how to navigate it. With a Loan Officer at your side, a long-term plan could help you take advantage of more inventory and sellers eager to close.
https://myoc.io/KWzay/C4ZNg



NMLS # 1102071