Ethan Pliskow at CrossCountry Mortgage

06/17/2026

🏡 Think you need 20% down to buy a home?

Think again.

Some of the biggest obstacles keeping buyers on the sidelines today aren't rates, prices, or inventory—they're mortgage myths that simply won't die.

In my latest article, I break down 7 of the most common misconceptions I hear from buyers every week and explain what today's mortgage landscape actually looks like.

You might be closer to homeownership than you think.

📞 813-205-2410
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7 Mortgage Myths That Refuse to Die For an industry that's been around as long as mortgages have, it's amazing how much bad information co...

06/17/2026

Existing-home sales climbed 3.2% in May, reaching their highest level since December and signaling renewed market momentum. As affordability stabilizes and more buyers (especially first-timers) step in, activity is picking up across the board. Let’s move your clients forward!

06/17/2026

🏡 Thinking about buying a home this year but worried about your credit score?

Here's the good news...

You don't need perfect credit to buy a home, and even small improvements over the next 90 days could increase your buying power, improve your loan options, and potentially lower your monthly payment.

In this week's blog, I break down the exact steps I recommend to buyers who are preparing to purchase a home.

If you're wondering where your credit stands today, let's have a conversation.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

How to Prepare Your Credit for a Home Purchase in 90 Days One of the biggest misconceptions I hear from homebuyers is that you need perfec...

06/17/2026

Why is everyone suddenly talking about rate buydowns?

Because they work.

In today's market, a 2-1 Buydown can reduce your monthly payment by hundreds of dollars during the first two years of homeownership.

Buyers are using them to improve affordability.
Sellers are using them to attract offers.
Builders are using them to move inventory without cutting prices.

Before you assume today's rates put homeownership out of reach, let's look at all the options available.

You may have more buying power than you think.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

The Rise of Rate Buydowns: Why They're Everywhere in Today's Housing Market If you've been house hunting lately, you've probably noticed tha...

06/16/2026

Got loan estimates from multiple lenders and wondering why none of them look the same?

You're not alone.

Different rates, different fees, different closing costs, different cash-to-close amounts and it can get confusing fast.

Before choosing a lender based on one number, make sure you're making an apples-to-apples comparison.

There may be a lot more to the story than you realize.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

Why Loan Estimates From Different Lenders Can Look So Different If you've ever shopped for a mortgage, you've probably noticed something ...

06/16/2026

Diverse income streams shouldn’t mean fewer options. Non-QM loans go beyond W-2s to offer flexible financing for qualified buyers. Learn more at http://spr.ly/6181B8GLVF

06/16/2026

Thinking about renting for another year?

Before you automatically renew your lease, take a look at what waiting may actually cost.

Another year of rent payments could mean:
🏠 No equity built
📈 Missing out on home appreciation
💰 Potentially higher home prices later
🔑 Delaying your path to homeownership

The right move isn't the same for everyone, but it's worth running the numbers before deciding.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

https://ethanpliskowccm.blogspot.com/2026/06/the-cost-of-renting-for-another-year-in.html

The Cost of Renting for Another Year in Florida If you're currently renting and thinking about buying a home, you've probably wondered whe...

06/16/2026

Everyone asks about the interest rate.

Very few ask about the monthly payment.

The reality is that your monthly payment is what impacts your budget, your lifestyle, and your financial goals and not just the rate on paper.

Taxes, insurance, HOA fees, seller concessions, and loan structure all play a major role in determining affordability.

Before you focus on the rate, make sure you're focusing on the payment.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

https://ethanpliskowccm.blogspot.com/2026/06/why-monthly-payment-matters-more-than.html

Why Monthly Payment Matters More Than Interest Rate One of the most common questions I hear from homebuyers is: "What's the rate?" Whil...

06/15/2026

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages are making a comeback in 2026.

But are they a smart move or a risky bet?

The answer depends on your goals, timeline, and financial situation. For some buyers, an ARM can create lower monthly payments and more flexibility. For others, the stability of a fixed-rate mortgage is worth every penny.

Before you choose, make sure you understand both options.

Let's compare the numbers and find the best fit for your situation.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

The Pros and Cons of Adjustable-Rate Mortgages in 2026 For years, the 30-year fixed mortgage has been the go-to choice for homebuyers. Bu...

06/15/2026

Thinking about waiting for mortgage rates to drop before buying a home?

You may want to consider the full picture first.

Lower rates can help affordability, but they can also bring more competition, higher home prices, and fewer seller concessions. In many cases, buyers who purchase now can refinance later if rates improve.

The key is understanding your options and running the numbers based on your specific goals.

Have questions about what buying today would look like for you? Let's talk.

📞 813-205-2410
📧 [email protected]

Should You Buy a Home Before Mortgage Rates Drop? If you're thinking about buying a home, you've probably asked yourself the same questio...