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More Approvals, Fewer Roadblocks

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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

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  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

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  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

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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?

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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

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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...

VA Loans: What Veterans Don’t Know

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  Many Oklahoma Veterans Are Missing This Opportunity VA home loans are one of the most powerful tools available for homebuyers—but many veterans in Tulsa and across Oklahoma don’t fully understand how they work or if they qualify. A recent survey revealed a major gap in awareness: Over 50% of veterans have at least one misconception about VA loans 30% aren’t even sure if they’re eligible Many still believe VA loans require a down payment or private mortgage insurance (PMI)—which they don’t This lack of clarity is causing many qualified buyers to miss out on homeownership opportunities. What Makes VA Loans So Powerful? VA loans were designed to help military members, veterans, and eligible spouses purchase homes with more favorable terms than traditional financing. Here’s what sets them apart: 100% Financing – No down payment required No PMI – Lower monthly payments compared to conventional loans Competitive Interest Rates – Often better than traditional loa...

Leverage Your Way to Wealth

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When it comes to building wealth, many people immediately think of the stock market. But the data tells a different story.  H omeownership remains one of the most powerful financial tools available . In fact, the average homeowner’s net worth is 44 times higher than that of a renter. Why? Because real estate combines appreciation, equity, and leverage in a way few other investments can. 1. Home Equity Drives Wealth On average, about two-thirds of a homeowner’s net worth comes from home equity . Every mortgage payment builds ownership, and over time, that equity becomes a significant financial asset. 2. The Power of Leverage One of the biggest advantages of real estate is leverage—being able to control a large asset with a smaller investment. Let’s break it down: $40,000 invested in stocks at a 10% return = $4,000 gain $40,000 used as a 10% down payment on a $400,000 home If that home appreciates just 3% = $12,000 gain That’s a 30% return on your original investmen...

Tulsa Remote Approved Lender | Moving to Tulsa Made Simple

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If you’re considering moving to Tulsa or relocating to Tulsa through the Tulsa Remote program, there’s never been a better time to explore your options. Tulsa Remote is a nationally recognized program designed specifically for out-of-state remote workers who are selected to relocate to Tulsa. Participants gain access to a growing, supportive community along with a $10,000 grant to help make the move. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group, we’re proud to be a Tulsa Remote approved lender , helping qualified participants navigate the homebuying process with clarity and confidence. What is Tulsa Remote? Tulsa Remote is a 12-month program built to attract talented remote professionals to Tulsa. Since its launch, it has welcomed 3,500+ remote workers from across the country, representing all 50 states and hundreds of cities. Participants benefit from: • A $10,000 relocation grant • Free coworking space • Monthly networking and community events • Health and wellness resources Even more ...

Use Assets to Qualify

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Use Your Assets to Qualify for a Home Loan in Tulsa Not every qualified homebuyer fits neatly into a traditional income-based mortgage. If you have strong savings, investments, or retirement accounts—but your income is complex or non-traditional—you may still qualify for a home loan using your assets. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group , we offer the Asset Amplify program , designed to help buyers leverage their financial strength in a different way. What is Asset Amplify? Asset Amplify is an asset-based mortgage program that allows you to use your liquid assets to qualify, without needing to sell or move them. This means your savings and investments can work for you while still remaining fully under your control. Key Benefits • No need to liquidate assets • Maintain full control of your funds • Use assets to strengthen your mortgage application • Up to 80% financing available • Loan amounts up to $2 million or more Who This Works Best For This program is ideal for: • Self-employed borrowers ...

Cashflow-Based Investment Loans

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  If you are a real estate investor, you know that traditional financing can slow you down. Tax returns, income calculations, and debt to income ratios often limit how quickly you can grow your portfolio. That is where Cashflow Pro changes the game. This investment loan program allows you to qualify based on the income from the property itself using a Debt Service Coverage Ratio, also known as DSCR. Instead of reviewing your personal income, we evaluate whether the rental income covers the mortgage payment. This approach opens the door for investors who may write off income, own multiple properties, or simply want a faster and more flexible way to finance deals. How DSCR Loans Work DSCR stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio. It measures the property’s rental income compared to the monthly mortgage payment, including principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and association dues. If the property cash flows, it can qualify. Key Benefits of Cashflow Pro Loans • No W2s, tax returns, or ...

Top Mortgage Originator Recognition

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We’re proud to announce that Mike David, Producing Branch Manager of Oklahoma Mortgage Group, has been recognized on the Scotsman Guide Top Originators list for 2026, based on outstanding performance in 2025. This national recognition places Mike among the top mortgage professionals in the country and reflects a year of strong production, client service, and consistent results. He was recognized in multiple categories, including: • Top Dollar Volume • Most Loans Closed • Top FHA Volume • Top VA Volume But behind every number is something far more meaningful—people and their stories. In 2025, our team had the opportunity to help approximately 260 families navigate the home financing process.  At Oklahoma Mortgage Group, we believe getting a mortgage should feel clear, strategic, and personalized. Our team focuses on: • Transparent communication throughout the loan process • Customized loan options tailored to each client • Creative solutions for unique financial situatio...

Renting Longer Is Costing More Than You Think

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  If it feels like renters are staying put longer than ever, you are right. According to recent housing data, the average renter now stays in their home for 6.5 years, up from just 5.9 years in 2019. While that may not seem like a big jump at first glance, it signals a much larger trend happening in today’s housing market. Why Renters Are Staying Longer There are two main reasons driving this shift: • Rising rent costs • Affordability challenges when buying a home Many potential buyers feel stuck. Higher home prices and fluctuating mortgage rates can make it seem like waiting is the safer option. But in reality, waiting can come with a hidden cost. The Real Cost of Renting Longer When you rent, your monthly payment builds zero equity. When you own a home, a portion of every payment goes toward building wealth. Over time, this creates a significant gap. Studies show the average homeowner’s net worth is dramatically higher than that of a renter, often by as much as 40 times. The long...

Fast Cash From Your Home Equity

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If you’re a homeowner in Tulsa and need quick access to funds, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) could be one of the smartest financial tools available right now. Many homeowners are sitting on significant equity but don’t realize how quickly they can access it, without the long timelines or hurdles of traditional loans. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group, Mike David and the team are helping clients tap into their home equity with a fast, streamlined HELOC program designed for real-life needs. What Is a HELOC? A HELOC, or home equity line of credit, allows you to borrow against the equity you’ve built in your home. Instead of receiving one lump sum, you get access to a line of credit that you can use as needed. With this fixed-rate HELOC program, your interest rate and initial draw amount are locked in at closing, giving you stability and predictability. Why Homeowners in Tulsa Are Choosing HELOCs This program is built for speed and convenience, something many traditional loan options lack....

Interest Rates and Purchasing Power

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When shopping for real estate in Oklahoma , your interest rate is just as important as the home’s listing price. This rate dictates your mortgage affordability and determines how much house you can actually get for your monthly budget. How Rates Affect Your Loan Amount As seen in the comparison table, even a small decrease in the mortgage interest rate significantly increases your borrowing limit. For example: Higher Rates: At 7.75% , a $400,000 loan results in a $2,866 monthly payment. Lower Rates: At 6.00% , that same $400,000 loan drops to $2,398 monthly. This difference of nearly $470 per month could be the gap between your dream home and a compromise. Now flip that around… If your budget is fixed, a lower rate could increase your purchasing power by tens of thousands of dollars. Why This Matters in Today’s Market Mortgage rates have been moving more than usual lately. That can feel overwhelming, but it also creates opportunity. The key is not trying to “time the market”...

3 Factors That Can Impact Your Mortgage Rate

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Mortgage rates have been moving around quite a bit lately, and if you're thinking about buying a home, it can feel a little unsettling. Here’s the reality: this kind of movement is completely normal. When there’s economic uncertainty, inflation concerns, or global events impacting financial markets, mortgage rates tend to fluctuate more than usual. That doesn’t mean the market is broken, it just means we’re in a more reactive environment. And while you can’t control what mortgage rates do day-to-day, you can control the factors that determine the rate you qualify for. What You Can Control If you're planning to buy a home in Tulsa or anywhere in Oklahoma, here are the three biggest things that impact your mortgage rate: 1. Your Credit Score Higher credit scores typically lead to better interest rates. Even small improvements can make a meaningful difference in your monthly payment. 2. Your Loan Type Different loan programs, like conventional, FHA, VA, or specialty programs, can...

Fed Holds Rates Steady in March 2026

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  Following the most recent FOMC statement, the Federal Reserve has maintained the Fed funds rate at 3.50% to 3.75%. This pause comes as the war against Iran continues to drive oil prices higher, sustaining inflationary pressures that make rate cuts difficult to justify in the immediate term. The Fed’s Dual Mandate and the Risk of Stagflation The Fed is currently navigating a complex "no growth, but no contraction" jobs market. With the BLS Unemployment Rate at 4.4%, there is a growing concern that the economy could enter a stagflation environment. If the labor market weakens while inflation remains high due to energy costs, the Fed’s dual mandate—balancing employment and price stability—will be put to an extreme test. This political and economic tension arrives as Jerome Powell’s chairmanship nears its end on May 15. The confirmation of Kevin Warsh as the next chair remains subject to political opposition, adding further uncertainty to the path of monetary policy. Strategic ...

A New Mortgage Option for Self-Employed Buyers!

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  Are you self-employed and thinking about buying a home, but worried you won’t qualify for a mortgage? You’re not alone. One of the biggest challenges for self-employed borrowers in Tulsa is that tax returns don’t always tell the full story. Business owners, freelancers, consultants, and 1099 earners often write off expenses to reduce taxable income. While that’s smart financially, it can make income appear much lower on paper when applying for a traditional home loan. That’s where the Statement Select loan program from Waterstone Mortgage comes in. What is Statement Select? Statement Select is a mortgage solution designed specifically for self-employed homebuyers. Instead of relying only on tax returns, this program allows a Tulsa mortgage lender to evaluate your real income using alternative documentation. This gives a more accurate picture of your financial situation and your ability to afford a home. How You Can Qualify With Statement Select, you may qualify using: 1...