Grand Rapids Mortgage

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  January Realtor of the Month – Jamie Barendsen

  January 18, 2022

  Congratulations to our January Realtor of the Month, Jamie Barendsen with AXIS Properties-Keller Williams Rivertown! After working in corporate marketing and advertising for over two decades, Jamie realized she wanted to use her skills and insights in a way that directly impacts the community. Her success working with clients in her previous career coupled with […]

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  Why Waiting to Buy Could Cost You

  December 8, 2021

  Note: This article was published in 2021. For updated information and tools, visit our Cost of Waiting page.   Since March 2020, the housing market has changed considerably. Buyer demand coupled with low inventory drove up competition and home values, ushering in questions regarding the stability of the market. As we approach 2022, the reality […]

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  November Realtor of the Month – Mark Blashkiw

  November 24, 2021

  Congratulations to our November Realtor of the Month, Mark Blashkiw with Blueprint Properties! Although Mark began his career in accounting after graduating from Western Michigan University, reading “Rich Dad Poor Dad” ignited his passion for real estate and entrepreneurship. After spending several years in California climbing the ranks of a public accounting firm, Mark decided […]

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  Homebot: A Home Value Tool for Owners to Track Equity & Options

  November 10, 2021

  What Is Homebot? Designed to empower homeowners with valuable information about their home value, equity, and other real estate options – Homebot is a tool that enables homeowners to track and understand the wealth they are building in their real estate.   For most Americans, our homes are our single largest and most lucrative investment, […]

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  Getting a Mortgage with Commission Income

  November 5, 2021

  Most people know that to qualify for a mortgage to buy a house, a borrower will need to prove their monthly income. This concept isn’t as easy as it sounds if you are paid on commission. Luckily, most mortgage Loan Officers in Michigan are also paid on commission, making them familiar with the process and […]

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  Difference Between Mortgage Insurance (PMI & MIP) & Home Insurance

  October 27, 2021

  For new homeowners navigating the home buying process, there are so many new terms that can be confusing. One of the most confusing things clients encounter are the different types of mortgage and home-related insurance – private mortgage insurance (PMI), mortgage insurance premium (MIP), mortgage protection insurance, and homeowners insurance. With similar monikers, no wonder […]

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  October Realtor of the Month – Ben Otis

  October 21, 2021

  Congratulations to our October Realtor of the month, Benjamin Otis with Weichert Realty! With two decades of experience in real estate, Ben Otis is committed to guiding his clients through the home search process seamlessly with top notch service. Ben prides himself on his expertise of the market, and one of his favorite parts of […]

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  September Realtor of the Month — Kellie Scheidel

  September 28, 2021

  Congratulations to our September Realtor of the Month – Kellie Scheidel with Greenridge Properties! With a background in professional sales, Kellie loves the art of the deal and being able to help her clients get the job done. Kellie was driven to real estate by her love of meeting new people, and she takes pride […]

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  Tips to Getting your Offer Accepted

  June 21, 2021

  The housing market in many parts of the country is red-hot. With limited inventory and an influx of buyers taking advantage of the low interest rates, the market has seen an unprecedented level of competition. The Grand Rapids market is certainly no exception. The competition can feel daunting especially when homes sell for over asking […]

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  June Realtor of the Month — Vickie Kochans

  June 7, 2021

  Congratulations to our June Realtor of the month, Vickie Kochans, owner of Revivify Properties! Since beginning her real estate journey over 20 years ago, Vickie Kochans has developed extensive market knowledge and a love of all things real estate. Whether helping clients find the perfect neighborhood to call home, staging homes or supporting local businesses, […]