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Put an End to Unsolicited Credit Offers

Let's explore some ways to stop solicitation for credit offers and reduce your exposure to financial products that may not be beneficial to your credit in the long term or could be scams.

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The Most Beloved Reasons Why New Builds are the Best

New construction homes are usually built in a development or subdivision from start to finish, or they can be standalone structures on a piece of land. Here are eight ways to decide if a new build is the right choice for you.

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Tips for Relocating When You Get a New Job

Whether you are moving across the country or to a neighboring town, the process of relocating requires planning, organization, and a bit of flexibility. Here are some tips to make the process a little smoother.

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Welcome to the HOMESTAR Blog!

Find info and tips about the mortgage process, credit scores, loan programs, refinancing, selling your home, saving money, and much more!

HOMESTAR FINANCIAL CORPORATION is now pleased to announce a partnership with American Pacific Mortgage Corporation.

10 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Lender Before Taking the Plunge

When it comes to choosing a mortgage lender, it is important to do your research and ask the right questions to ensure you are getting the best deal possible. Here are 10 questions to ask your mortgage lender before taking the plunge.

5 Ways to Sell a Home Sight Unseen

Social media has revolutionized how we communicate, connect, and share information with the world. But did you know it can also help sell a home sight unseen? With the rise of virtual tours, online marketing, and social media advertising, it is now possible to showcase a property to potential buyers without them ever having to step foot inside.

5 Reasons Why Investment Properties Are a Smart Choice

Real estate has long been a popular investment option for those seeking to generate passive income and build long-term wealth. While many people are familiar with buying and selling primary residences, investing in rental properties is a different beast altogether.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Michael Larssen

Michael Larssen's ability to bring people together with strategic teamwork is how he stays evolving and executing big ideas. Throughout his career, Michael has been passionate about what homeownership can provide to a family as well as maintaining high ethics in the industry.

Pre-Approval and Pre-Qualification: What’s the Difference?

Let's break down the differences between mortgage loan pre-approval and pre-qualification.

HOMESTAR Top Originators by Scotsman Guide for 2023

Congratulations to our Mortgage Loan Originators named Top Originators by Scotsman Guide for 2023!

Tips for Relocating When You Get a New Job

Understanding Common Mortgage Loan Term Benefits

One of the most important aspects of a mortgage loan is the loan term. Here are some commonly used mortgage loan terms in this article.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Vikki Hardin

Vikki's dedication to her work and her community is truly inspiring. HOMESTAR is grateful to have her as a part of its team.

HOMESTAR MBAG 2022 Gold Awards Winners

The Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia (MBAG) have recognized outstanding Mortgage Loan Originators in various categories for their MBAG 2022 Gold Awards. Here's a list of our HOMESTAR winners.

Multigenerational Living: An Affordable Solution for Modern Families

This concept has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many families choosing to live together for various reasons.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Stacey Jones

During her segment at the 2023 Annual Awards Ceremony, Stacey was awarded HOMESTAR’s 2023 Wayfinder Cultural Award, Bright Star. This individual award is for community leadership.

Put an End to Unsolicited Credit Offers

Let's explore some ways to stop solicitation for credit offers and reduce your exposure to financial products that may not be beneficial to your credit in the long term or could be scams.

Homestar Financial Corporation Named Best of Hall Mortgage/Home Loan Provider for 2023

This recognition is a testament to Homestar Financial Corporation's commitment to providing exceptional service and products to its customers.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Keran Fears

In her spare time, Keran Fears enjoys balloon artistry. She also believes that success is about loving life, being with family, helping others, and having fun!

Aging in Place: What Does It Mean and Is It Right for You?

Let's explore the pros and cons of aging in place, how to decide if it's the right choice for you, and the resources available to help make it possible.

What is the HOMESTAR Heroes Program?

On the job, you serve others. Now, it's our turn to serve you. At HOMESTAR, we provide that perfect plan for our heroes who work hard in our communities daily! The heroes who provide extraordinary services to our nation and its communities every day are what keep us educated, healthy, and safe.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Bryson Burt

Bryson's closest and strongest supporters throughout his life include his partner, family, and friends. However, his homebuyers and the journey he goes through with them also continue to be his "why" in this business. The burning passion he finds when helping a family to their forever home drives him to get up every day and show up.

HOMESTAR Selects Surefire, Black Knight’s Award-Winning Mortgage-Specific CRM and Marketing Automation Engine

HOMESTAR selected Surefire for its powerful automation and award-winning content library.

5 New Year’s Resolutions for the Mortgage Loan Originator in 2023

New Year’s resolutions may seem silly to some, or some quickly find that their goals may not be attainable, so they abandon ship. Below you can find a list of 5 simple ways to transform your year for growth! All are attainable, productive, and have proven success.

Giving Back to Our Communities in 2022

As we reflect back on 2022, HOMESTAR is so proud of our teams! Here are just a few of the many ways our teams and fellow employees gave back.

Employee Spotlight: Meet Gabriela Villafranco

“I remember helping a single mom that was raising a disabled child. She was homeless,” says Gabriela. “Being able to help her get a home was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had.”

Voted Best of Georgia Mortgage Companies for 2022

HOMESTAR proudly announces that Georgia communities voted HOMESTAR as a Best of Georgia Mortgage Company for 2022 through the annual Georgia Business Journal (GBJ) competition.

7 Tips for a Fun Family Winter

Winter is coming! For many, that means school is out, temperatures outside have dropped, and kids are feeling restless! There are tons of family-friendly activities you can do with your child(ren) at home or out and about. Here are some of our favorite ideas for a fun family winter.

HOMESTAR Announces Gurp Bhandal as Executive Vice President of National Production

Homestar Financial Corporation, one of the country’s fastest-growing privately held mortgage lenders, announces Gurp Bhandal as Executive Vice President of National Production.

The Most Beloved Reasons Why New Builds are the Best

Millennial vs. Gen Z: Who Dominates the Housing Market?

As the age-old inquisition looms, who is the next generation to dominate the housing market? Is it Gen Z, or is it Millennials?

Reduce Your Risk of Identity Theft

No one wants to be a victim of a scammer, but there are measures we can take to protect ourselves. Here are some tips on how to keep your information safe and reduce your risk of identity theft.

Women of Influence: CFO, Stacy Mohr

Hear from HOMESTAR's Chief Financial Officer, Stacy Mohr, on her professional journey in the mortgage industry.

New Leadership Roles Given to Top Teams

HOMESTAR’s continued growth is something we pride ourselves on! Our Top 5 Team Managers are promoted to 'Division Manager,' and our current Division Managers, promoted to 'Division Executive.'

What is a Hybrid eClosing?

Hybrid eClosing is easy, and it is a proven success!

Home Accessibility and Modification for Disabled People

Living a comfortable lifestyle can be challenging for individuals, veterans, and seniors with disabilities. Renovations and modifications to your home are possible with the help of a 203K loan.

Thinking about Buying an Older Home? Budget for These Items

There are so many benefits that come with older homes, but with their age, expect additional expenses. Here are 5 items you should budget for if you plan to purchase an older home.

Furnish Your New Home on a Budget

When you buy a new home, you typically budget for the costs of a down payment, closing costs, moving costs, storage fees, and temporary housing. But, what about the cost of furniture to fill any bare space in your new home?

10 Tips for Staging Your Home

Selling your home is no easy task, but there is one thing you can do to make it easier: stage it! Discover 10 staging tips that will help your home stand out.

Steve Lovig, HOMESTAR’s Own Captain HR, Recognized as One of the Top 10 HR Professionals in the World

After thousands of votes were tallied, Steve Lovig – HOMESTAR’s own Captain HR, has been recognized as one of the Top 10 HR Professionals in the entire world!

Buying a Home with a Low Credit Score

A low credit score can seem like a big obstacle to overcome on your journey to homeownership. But, don’t let it stop you! Let’s take a look at what a low credit score is, loan options that may work for you, and how to improve your credit score.

Loan Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

When you begin the journey to homeownership, there’s a lot to think about. The most important one being which loan program is right for you – especially with so many options available.

What’s the Difference between Closing Date and Funding Date?

Closing is the last (and most important) step of the mortgage process. There are two important dates to be aware of: closing date and funding date. You may be thinking, aren’t they the same thing? They are not! Let’s take a look at the difference.

HOMESTAR Releases My HOMESTAR Mortgage App

HOMESTAR, a Top Mortgage Purchase Lender Nationwide, is making the mortgage process even easier for its borrowers and realtor partners as they announce the release of their new app, the My HOMESTAR Mortgage app.

Giving Back to Our Communities in 2021

HOMESTAR and our employees are passionate about serving others. We invest in our communities by providing opportunities for homeownership and giving back through donations and volunteerism, which contributes to our communities growth and development every day.

Inexpensive Ways to Refresh Your Home

Need some change, or is your home feeling blah? You can make simple, smart, and inexpensive changes that inspire you and make quite the difference. They not only require very little money out of your pocket but also very little time out of your day.

Home Safety Tips You Need to Know

Home is where you spend most of your time, so ensuring it’s a safe space where you and your family can grow and thrive is very important. Check out these tips on how to keep your home safe.

Costs That Come with Homeownership

Beyond your monthly mortgage payment, owning a home involves additional costs – some that occur once, some ongoing, and some you may not need to address for a while. Read about some of the costs that come with homeownership.

HOMESTAR Announces Implementation of Candor

HOMESTAR, a Top Mortgage Purchase Lender Nationwide, announces the implementation of Candor, a platform that helps automate decisions around income, assets, and lending to increase productivity. HOMESTAR is one of the first five companies to implement Candor’s underwriting technology.

Ways to Save Money as a Homeowner

Owning a home is incredibly rewarding, but costs can add up. Whether you just bought a home or have owned your home for some time, there are many things you can do to save money for years to come.

20 Hacks to Keep Your Home Organized

Organizing can be an easy and enjoyable task as you can create practical storage solutions so that each of your household items has its own home. Utilize these 20 clever storage hacks to keep your home mess-free.

3 Ways to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

You can remove years from your mortgage payment schedule and save money on interest by paying off your mortgage early. However, before you do so, ensure that your mortgage has no prepayment penalty AND that it makes financial sense for you right now (or if you would be better off waiting a little longer).

Advantages of Living in the Charming Countryside

Thinking about escaping city life? Rural living may be a great option for you as you can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, start the hobby farm you’ve always dreamed about, or give your children a unique childhood experience. Discover the many advantages of country living, which just can’t be found anywhere else.

How to Find Great Tenants for Your Rental Property

If you’ve purchased rental property, you need to find great tenants to rent to. You don’t want your rental property to remain vacant for too long, but you also want to avoid wasting valuable time and money down the road with unqualified tenants. That’s why it’s crucial to take your time and be selective. Follow these tips to find the right tenants from the start.

Moving with Children? 5 Tips to Help You Stay Sane

Whether you are relocating down the road or to another state, moving is not without its challenges – especially when you have children. Fortunately, you can take some of the stress out of moving for you both (and keep your sanity!) by following these tips.

5 Things to Consider While Shopping for a Home When You Have Children

All parents want to provide the best for their children, including the perfect home to raise them in. Discover 5 things to consider when house hunting to ensure you give yourself and your children the safety, security, and freedom needed every day.

Down Payment vs. Closing Costs: Are They the Same or Different?

You may have heard that you need to have enough money saved for a down payment. But, what about closing costs? Aren’t closing costs the same as a down payment? You might be surprised by the answer.

What You Need to Know about a Cash-Out Refinance

If you have been in your home for a while and have built up a significant amount of equity, you may be able to use that to your advantage now. But, how? With a cash-out refinance!

Family-Friendly Summer Activities

Summer is here, which means it’s time to get outdoors and soak up some sun! There are tons of family-friendly activities you can do with your child(ren) that are either free or affordable – and, of course, fun! Check out some of our favorites!

Why Buy a Home?

It’s National Homeownership Month, where we celebrate the benefits homeownership brings to families and communities. Discover 10 reasons why you should consider buying a home.

Cost Concerns of Building Materials

Amidst the housing shortage, builders are needed to produce more homes for homebuyers to purchase. The shortage was further exasperated by the pandemic, which disrupted production and the shipping channels to get materials to builders in order for them to build homes.

25 Key Mortgage Terms You Need to Know

Are you thinking about buying a home? Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or searching for a vacation home or investment property, there are many terms you will read or hear throughout the mortgage process.

HOMESTAR Cash Advantage Program

Now you can have the same advantage as a cash buyer, which is crucial in today’s HOT housing market. HOMESTAR is proud to offer the Cash Advantage program for homebuyers and home sellers!

Show Your Home Love Year-Round

Just like a routine wellness check-up, cleaning and maintenance schedules are essential for your home’s upkeep. Follow these daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly cleaning and maintenance checklists to keep your home in good health throughout the year.

Why You Should Refinance Now

Right now is the perfect time to lock a low mortgage rate. Fixed and adjustable mortgage rates have risen since the beginning of the year, but all rates remain low. Rates will most likely remain low well into 2021 or maybe longer.

Achieve Homeownership, Even with Student Loan Debt

If you have student loan debt, you may be wondering how this affects your ability to buy a home. Good news – even if you have student loan debt, you can still achieve your homeownership goals.

Use Your Tax Refund and Stimulus Payment(s) to Achieve Your Homeownership Goals

Although this past year brought us uncertainty, achieving your homeownership goals is still possible. Discover ways you can support them.

How HOMESTAR Gave Back in 2020

At HOMESTAR, we are passionate about serving others and giving back to our local communities. HOMESTAR and our employees are proud to share the meaningful ways we gave back in 2020.

How to Add Value to Your Home

You can do several things to your home now and over the years to add value – leaving you feeling confident when the time may come that you decide to sell. Discover 25 ways you can add value to your home, starting today.

Homebuyer’s Guide to the Mortgage Process

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone. The mortgage process involves multiple steps, but with the right preparation and a powerful team of mortgage professionals by your side, you will be well equipped for each step of the homebuying journey.

5 Ways to Buy a Home with Little or No Money Out-of-Pocket

Do you desire to become a homeowner but don’t yet have enough money to do so? Many potential homebuyers are unaware of several creative ways to obtain a mortgage and buy a home with little or no money out-of-pocket.

3 Ways to Avoid or Stop Paying PMI

Should You Build or Buy a Home?

When making the important decision to become a homeowner, there are several options available for the type of home you can purchase: buying an existing property or building your own home. Before you begin, weigh the pros and cons of each to help you determine the right option to fit your lifestyle.

Things to Think About After Purchasing a Home

Finding the perfect home isn’t an easy task, but once you do so, your work still isn’t complete. It’s just the beginning of the homeownership journey. After closing on your home, there are some new homeowner tasks to tackle.

When to Reevaluate Your Mortgage

A mortgage can feel like a lifelong contract, which is why it is important to reevaluate it regularly. Discover the signs you should look out for to know when it’s time to reevaluate your mortgage.

How to Negotiate the Price on Your Dream Home

Negotiation is key to scoring the right home at the right price. Discover 10 things you need to do when negotiating the price on your dream home.

How to Be a Successful Landlord

Thinking about purchasing rental property or listing your current home for rent? Learn about what you need to know when it comes to how to be a landlord managing tenants and rental property.

12 Credit Secrets You Need to Know

Qualifying for a home loan is greatly influenced by your credit score and knowing how good or bad your credit score is an important first step down the path to homeownership. Find out the 12 credit secrets you need to know.

How Do I Qualify for a Mortgage Loan?

You’ve dreamed about owning your own home and have decided you’re ready to take the first step – applying for a mortgage loan. Discover what you need to know about qualifying for a mortgage loan.

What Is a Conventional Loan?

Conventional loans are home loans not insured or guaranteed by a government agency, like FHA and VA loans. Instead, they are backed by a mortgage lender and insurance is typically paid by the borrower. Learn more about their benefits.

Steps to Finding the Right Homeowners Insurance

Most, if not all, mortgage lenders require borrowers to obtain and provide proof of insurance coverage for the full or fair value of a home. Find out what you need to know about homeowners insurance.

5 Things You Need to Know About Home Inspections

Whether you are selling your home or are in the process of buying a home, a home inspection isn’t required. However, it can be very helpful in determining any issues with a home before you make a sale or purchase. Find out what you need to know when it comes to home inspections.

Steps to Achieve the American Dream of Homeownership

For most, owning a home is more than just having their place. It symbolizes “making it” in life and achieving the unimaginable feat of the American Dream. Discover the steps to take towards homeownership.

The Benefits of Homeownership

Becoming a homeowner comes with great responsibility, but also great rewards. If you are wondering if owning a home makes sense for you, there are several benefits of homeownership that may help you decide.

Do’s & Don’ts When Buying a Home

When you are preparing to buy a home, there’s a lot to keep in mind throughout the process. We have compiled a list of “Do’s & Don’ts” that will come in handy!

Using Your Tax Refund to Purchase a Home

If you are currently renting, looking to purchase your first home, or want to invest in a second/vacation home, using your tax refund is a great first step. Discover 5 ways a tax refund can help get you home.

Are You Ready to Refinance Your Home?

Do you know if you are eligible to refinance your home? Determining your eligibility for refinancing is similar to the approval process for a home loan. Read to learn more.

Make 2020 a Scam-Free Year

Anyone can fall victim to a scam and they may target you at any time. Knowing the signs of a scam can help you identify one before it’s too late. Protect your privacy and finances with these tips.

7 Ways to Reduce Dry Air in Your Home This Winter

There are several ways to combat dry air during the winter. Save these tips and keep your home more comfortable during the winter season.

Preparing Your Home for the Winter

Winterizing your home is important to reduce the risk of potential damage from freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Use this checklist to ensure your home is ready for the upcoming cold season.

Make Buying a Home Your New Year’s Resolution for 2020

If buying a home has been an ongoing goal, use the New Year to begin taking steps to become a homeowner. The path to affordable homeownership is possible! We have provided many useful tips to help you get there.

House Hunting: Finding the Right House

Finding the right home to purchase can present a lot of unforeseen challenges and can be a time consuming process. Here are some steps you should take to ensure that you are making the most of the home search and buying process.

Don’t Be Spooked Out About Buying a House

It is completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed during the homebuying process, as this will most likely be one of the largest financial commitments you make. As long as you are well-informed about the process and have a plan set in place, there is no need to be afraid.

House Hunting: What to Do Before

Are you someone who knows exactly what they want in a home, but aren’t sure how to get it? Many homebuyers feel this exact same way. It can leave you feeling frustrated and wanting to give up before you even begin. Discover tips that will make the house hunting process run more smoothly.

Fall Activities for Your Family

The autumn season brings a sense of simplicity and an appreciation for the small things. With so much fall fun and only a little time to enjoy the season, we came up with some seasonal activities for your family to do this fall.

What Not to Do During the Loan Process

Applying for a mortgage loan does not have to be stressful. For a smooth loan process, we have provided some tips of what NOT to do.

How to Save for a Down Payment

The key to saving for a down payment is determination and discipline. Check out these tips for things you can do to save for a down payment.

5 Ways to Boost Your Curb Appeal

Are you looking for some easy ways to gain more curb appeal? Your home’s exterior is a resemblance of the interior, which makes the initial impression of your home important. Here are 5 simple ways that you can achieve better curb appeal.

How to Prepare for the Homebuying Process

After much consideration, you’ve finally made the decision that you want to buy a home. Following this guide can make the process easier and help you to feel more confident about the homebuying process.

5 Myths About Buying a Home

Ready to take the leap from renter to homeowner? Buying a home is an exciting time, but many potential homebuyers are hesitant due to common misconceptions. Don’t let these keep you from the personal and financial rewards of homeownership.

6 Helpful Home Remodeling Tips

Home remodeling can be a fun project, but it can quickly get out of hand. Check out these tips for a successful remodel that may even save you some money!

7 Tips to Boost Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

Ready to buy a home? Before you do, be sure to look at your credit score. There is no “quick fix” when it comes to boosting your credit score, but you can follow these 7 tips to help improve it over time.

8 House Hunting Questions to Ask Yourself

Knowing how much house you can afford ahead of time is a great starting point in your search for the home of your dreams. Before you get started, ask yourself these 8 questions.

11 Tips for Hosting a Successful Open House

Open houses are designed for interested buyers to browse your home, speak with an agent, and ask questions. Discover the pros and cons of hosting an open house.

Finding a Home Near the Right Schools and in the Right Neighborhood

When buying a new home, the first thing to look at is location. You want a home in a good neighborhood with good schools for you and your family. But, how do you know if a neighborhood is truly right for you?

Got Pets? Here’s How to Remove Pet Odor Before Selling Your Home

Are you in the market to sell your home? If you are and you have some furry friends roaming around your home, we have some tips when it comes to removing lingering pet odors.

Home DIY Ideas + Tips

Would you like to spruce up your home, increase its value, and save money? Home DIY is the answer! Check out these home DIY ideas and tips to help inspire you to get crafty!

How Pets Affect the Homebuying Decision

People love their four-legged furry friends so much so that they are impacting the homebuying decision. So, why are pets affecting the homebuying decision? There are a few reasons.

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What type of home loan are you seeking?

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, looking to refinance your home, or are seeking a second/vacation home, we offer several home loan options designed to fit your individual goals.

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HOMESTAR Blog

Featured Article

Put an End to Unsolicited Credit Offers

Featured Article

The Most Beloved Reasons Why New Builds are the Best

Featured Article

Tips for Relocating When You Get a New Job

Welcome to the HOMESTAR Blog!

What type of home loan are you seeking?