Posts

Top Producer, Local Advantage

Image
Being named a National Mortgage News Top Producer for 2026 is a major milestone, but what makes it truly meaningful is the context behind it. A National Industry, A Local Team There are hundreds of thousands of mortgage loan officers across the country. Earning a spot among the top producers nationwide is not just about volume, it reflects consistency, service, and the ability to deliver results at a high level. What makes this recognition even more special is that it comes from a small, dedicated team based in Tulsa. This is not a massive operation. It is a focused group committed to doing things the right way for every client and every partner. What It Means for Buyers For homebuyers, this kind of recognition should translate into confidence. The mortgage process can feel overwhelming, but working with an experienced lender helps simplify things. From the initial conversation to the closing table, the goal is to create a clear path forward. Buyers benefit from: Accurate pre-approvals...

More Approvals, Fewer Roadblocks

Image
The mortgage industry is entering a new credit scoring era. FHFA announced that Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FHA are moving forward with newer credit score models, including VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T. VantageScore 4.0 is available immediately for approved lenders, while FICO 10T is expected to follow. Why This Matters For years, mortgage lending has relied heavily on Classic FICO. That model is still approved, but newer models create more competition and may give lenders a better way to evaluate creditworthiness. FHFA says these newer models can consider additional data, including rent payment history. That could be especially important for renters who pay consistently but have limited traditional credit depth. What Could Change Over time, this may help expand the borrower pool. Some buyers who did not score well under older models may be viewed differently under newer credit frameworks. It may also create more competition among credit score providers, which could help reduce credi...

Top 1% Loan Originator Honor

Image
  I’m proud to share that I’ve been named to Mortgage Executive Magazine’s Top 1% Mortgage Originators in America for 2025. This recognition represents more than production, it reflects consistency, communication, and trust built over time with clients and partners. What This Means for Buyers If you’re planning to purchase a home, the lender you choose matters. A strong mortgage process helps you: Understand your numbers upfront Submit competitive offers with confidence Avoid surprises during underwriting Clear communication and a well structured pre-approval can make a real difference, especially in a competitive market. What This Means for Agents For real estate professionals, a reliable lender helps protect your deals and your reputation. That includes: Fast, accurate pre-approvals Proactive updates throughout the transaction Problem solving before issues impact closing The goal is simple, keep the process moving and reduce stress for everyone involved. Local Focus Matters As a ...

VA Gets Easier

Image
  VA appraisal issues have been a common concern for buyers, sellers, and real estate agents. Effective May 1, 2026, VA updated its Minimum Property Requirements to make the process more practical. What Changed? VA is now focusing more clearly on safety, structural soundness, and sanitation. Key changes include: • Detached sheds and fences may not automatically require repairs • Peeling paint on post-1978 homes may be considered cosmetic • Certain radon certification requirements for new homes were removed Why Agents Should Care This could mean fewer minor repair delays and smoother closings for VA buyers. It also gives agents a better way to explain VA offers to sellers. A VA loan does not have to mean a difficult transaction. Good News for Buyers Eligible veterans and active-duty buyers may now have more flexibility when shopping for homes. VA home loans are still subject to appraisal and lender review, but these updates may help more homes qualify without unnecessary repair cond...

Bixby Leadership Recognition

Image
The recent Leadership Excellence Awards Luncheon in Bixby brought together a powerful group of community leaders, business owners, elected officials, and local advocates for an afternoon centered on connection, celebration, and shared vision. The event recognizes individuals who are making a meaningful impact in Bixby—those who lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and contribute to the continued growth of the community. Among this year’s honorees, Mike David was awarded Outstanding Leader for his role on the Bixby City Council. This recognition highlights his ongoing commitment to thoughtful leadership, strategic growth, and serving the residents of Bixby with intention and care. As Bixby continues to grow, leadership like this plays a key role in shaping the city’s future—balancing development, infrastructure, and community values. Events like the Leadership Excellence Awards Luncheon serve as a reminder that progress is driven by people who are willing to step up, collaborat...

Rates Hold Again: What Now?

Image
The Federal Reserve announced no change to the Fed funds rate at its April 2026 meeting, keeping the benchmark rate between 3.50% and 3.75% . This marks the third consecutive meeting without a rate cut. While many entered 2026 expecting rate relief, global economic pressures, particularly elevated oil prices, are keeping inflation persistent and delaying those anticipated cuts. Why Rates Aren’t Dropping Yet Several key factors are influencing today’s rate environment: • Oil prices remain above $100/barrel , fueling inflation • Ongoing geopolitical tensions are creating uncertainty • The economy is showing resilience , not weakness • The job market remains stable, with no major contraction Because of this, the Fed is taking a cautious approach before making any moves toward rate cuts. What This Means for Mortgage Rates Mortgage rates don’t directly follow the Fed funds rate, but they are heavily influenced by: • Inflation trends • Market expectations • Investor behavior R...

Grand Opening Celebration Recap

Image
We want to take a moment to say thank you. Our grand opening at our new Oklahoma Mortgage Group / Waterstone Mortgage Tulsa building was such a meaningful milestone for our team, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who came out to celebrate with us. There was something special about opening our doors and welcoming in the clients, real estate partners, and friends who have supported us throughout the years. This new space represents so much more than a new location — it reflects growth, hard work, and the relationships that have made it all possible. We don’t take that lightly. Being able to build and grow here in Tulsa, serve families through the home buying process, and partner with so many incredible people in this community is something we are truly thankful for. We feel incredibly blessed to be in this position and excited for what’s ahead. As a Tulsa mortgage lender, our goal has always been to serve well, build lasting relationships, and continue improving in everythi...