Andy Fernando

06/20/2026

Thinking About Downsizing in Retirement? 🏡

Many retirees assume downsizing automatically means paying cash for a smaller home. But for some homeowners age 62+, a Reverse Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase) can be a powerful strategy.

By putting down a portion of the proceeds from the sale of your current home and using a reverse mortgage for the rest, you may be able to:

✅ Buy a home that better fits your lifestyle
✅ Preserve more of your retirement savings and home-sale proceeds
✅ Eliminate required monthly mortgage payments*
✅ Increase cash flow and financial flexibility in retirement

Downsizing doesn't just mean moving to a smaller home—it can also mean creating a smarter retirement income strategy.

Let's explore whether a Reverse Mortgage for Purchase fits your retirement goals.

*Borrowers must continue to pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the home.

06/19/2026

Today we celebrate Juneteenth, commemorating June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the freedom of the last enslaved Black Americans—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It marked the end of a disgraceful chapter in American history and serves as an important reminder of how far we've come, and how much work remains.

As we reflect on that history, we're also officially welcoming the first weekend of summer. Hopefully the sunshine sticks around long enough for all of us to enjoy it.

Mortgage markets had a bit of a roller coaster ride this week. Monday and Tuesday were relatively quiet as markets waited for the Fed meeting. Wednesday was a bloodbath for mortgage-backed securities, while Thursday brought some relief as markets recovered a portion of those losses. Even so, rates are finishing the week just a hair worse than where they started.

As of yesterday, Mortgage News Daily (MND) reported the national average for a best-case 30-year conventional fixed-rate mortgage at 6.58%.

If you have buyers wondering whether to lock, wait, or move forward, let's connect. A proactive rate strategy can make a meaningful difference in both payment and peace of mind.

Have a great weekend, and thank you for your continued trust and partnership.

06/19/2026

06/16/2026

This is an interesting article about the state of the market nationally. The thing to remember is that REAL ESTATE IS ALWAYS LOCAL. There are still multiple offers on homes in the PNW, but that can vary by neighborhood.

The biggest take away from this article I think is this paragraph:

"Today, an overpriced home doesn't just sit – it gets stale, loses leverage, and sells for less than it would have if it had been priced right from the start," Joel Berner, a senior economist with the company, said in the report, which compared home sales data to Realtor.com listing histories.

https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/seller-beware-housing-bidding-war-090517424.html

It's a new world in the housing market, and sellers and agents need to get used to it.

06/16/2026

Charming rambler awaits its next owner! Nestled in the desirable North Hill neighborhood of Des Moines, this one-level home offers comfort, convenience, and inviting living spaces. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the home includes both a formal living room and a spacious family room located just off the kitchen, providing plenty of room for relaxing and entertaining. The tastefully remodeled kitchen comes complete with all appliances included, making your move-in process seamless. Gorgeous hardwoods,vaulted ceilings and a skylight enhance this home's beauty. Mature landscaping surrounds the property, creating a sense of privacy in both the front and back yards. Step outside to the peaceful back patio, where a quaint bridge spans a picturesque pond, adding a touch of serenity to the outdoor space. An attached two-car garage is conveniently located off the family room and is easily accessible from the alley behind the home. There is actually room for four cars to park in addition to the two car garage. Close proximity to I-5,509, and public transportation.
MLS #:2539702

https://athoreen.withwre.com/listings/my-active-listings

06/15/2026

Aging Isn't Cheap. Planning Matters.

As we get older, expenses often change—but they don't always go down. Healthcare costs, home maintenance, insurance, property taxes, and everyday living expenses can put pressure on retirement income.

For some homeowners age 62+, a Reverse Mortgage (HECM) can be a valuable financial planning tool. It may help eliminate a mortgage payment, improve monthly cash flow, or provide access to a portion of home equity while continuing to live in the home.

A Reverse Mortgage isn't right for everyone, but neither is ignoring one of the largest assets many retirees have—their home equity.

The key is understanding all of your options and making an informed decision based on your goals.

06/14/2026

Why worry about tomorrow when you should be focused on what you can accomplish right now?

Make the most of every moment and enjoy life!

06/12/2026

Summer is finally showing up in the Pacific Northwest!

Mortgage markets moved slightly higher this week as jobs data remained solid and inflation continued to run a little hotter than the Fed would like. Most expect the Fed to hold rates steady next week, but all eyes will be on the first Fed meeting under new Chair Kevin Warsh.

As of today, Mortgage News Daily (MND) reports the national average for a best-case 30-year conventional loan at 6.60%, with FHA and VA loans both in the low-6% range nationally.

If you're buying, selling, or refinancing, having a plan for rate locks and financing strategy is more important than ever.

06/12/2026

People Do Business With People They Know, Like, and Trust

In today's world, you can find a mortgage quote online in seconds. But when it comes to one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, a rate is only part of the story.

People naturally prefer to work with someone they know, like, and trust—someone who takes the time to listen, answer questions, explain options, and be there when challenges arise.

A mortgage isn't just a transaction. It's a relationship built on communication, expertise, and trust.

Thank you to my clients, referral partners, friends, and family who continue to place their trust in me. It is never taken for granted.