Craig Nichols - Highlands Residential Mortgage, Ltd. NMLS 134871

09/01/2026

It happens all the time: a buyer is ready to go; things are moving along ... and then something avoidable throws the contract off track.

Here are (5) of the biggest "penalty flags" for new homebuyers (that you can absolutely avoid):

1️⃣ Skipping pre-approval and falling in love with homes before you know your numbers
2️⃣ Opening new credit or financing big purchases while you're under contract
3️⃣ Making large, unexplained cash deposits
4️⃣ Underestimating closing costs and only planning for the down payment
5️⃣ Changing jobs (or income type) in the middle of the process

The good news? Every one of these can be prevented with a little guidance up front.

If you're thinking about buying, let's walk through your game plan before you hit the field so you can avoid the flags and get to the closing table smoothly.

08/25/2026

Found a great house but needs a little TLC! We can help!

08/20/2026

Sometimes the biggest thing standing between you and your next home is the upfront cost.

That's exactly why our DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS at Highlands Residential Mortgage exists - to help make homeownership more accessible, whether you're buying your first home or moving into one that fits your life a little better.

The more you know about the programs available to you, the easier it is to plan with confidence and move forward with less stress. Want to see if this could be a fit? I'd be happy to walk you through it.

08/17/2026

When the unexpected happens, we are here to help get your buyer closed! NO ONE DOES IT BETTER!

08/17/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Craig B. Nichols by Annette F - getting everything done so quickly! Communication was excellent

Click to see all 574 reviews of Craig B. Nichols, Branch Manager / Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS # 272278

08/17/2026

5.0 star review received on Experience.com for Craig B. Nichols by Marlee J N - Craig was amazing to work with . He guided us every step of the way and answered all our many many questions. I highly recommend him especially for first time buyers that are completely new to the process

Click to see all 574 reviews of Craig B. Nichols, Branch Manager / Sr. Loan Officer | NMLS # 272278

08/13/2026

Sometimes people hear the term LO and think, "Okay... but what exactly does a loan officer do?"

Fair question. As your neighborhood LO, I'm here to help make the mortgage side of homebuying feel a little less overwhelming and a lot more manageable.

I explain your options, answer the questions that pop up along the way, and help build a plan that fits your goals.

Behind the scenes, I also work closely with Realtors, attorneys, and the rest of the homebuying crew to help keep everything running smoothly.

In other words, I'm here to offer personalized guidance, steady support, and the kind of help that makes buying a home feel a whole lot more doable. If you ever want to talk it through, I'd be happy to help.

08/10/2026

The real mystery? Why so many buyers think the case is closed before it even starts.

Do you have:

► Stable income
► Good payment history
► Some savings

If you said yes, you might have more home loan options than you think.

Sometimes the mystery is not whether buying is possible, it is simply figuring out which loan program fits best. So, if you have been ruling yourself out before the paperwork even gets a chance, let's investigate the facts and see what the evidence really says.

08/05/2026

We are so proud of our branch manager, Craig Nichols, who has been recognized by TSAHC for being a Top 20 Loan Officer for TSAHC among all Texas Loan Officer's!

08/04/2026

Waiting on the "perfect" rate can feel smart... right up until your dream house ends up with someone else's welcome mat.

While you are sitting on the sidelines, home prices can change, competition can heat up, and the home you loved can slip away.

The good news is there are plenty of ways to save money that have nothing to do with the interest rate alone. You might be surprised what is possible in today's market-let's talk.