First Class Mortgage - Fargo, ND

Nominations are now open for the Best of the Red River Valley 2024! We would love your vote for "Best Mortgage Firm" 🤩. You can click the link below to be taken to the nominations page!
https://www.inforum.com/community/contests-auctions/best-of-the-red-river-valley?fbclid=IwY2xjawExm8xleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcKwFeTgU5uzbvs9fCtZ8CqU6WAtUONh9clsKBRQ5K0ajsLjFhpYQw4zSg_aem_LIUNLvZ7RbxUyIRQSl_iFg #/gallery?group=493036

Another 5-star review for the FCM Team 🥳

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 stars for the FCM Team! Thank you Kelsey for your review!

First time home-buyer? We've got you! Here are key questions to ask your Mortgage Lender to understand their services, fees, and loan options:

What types of loans do you offer?
Determine if they have a range of loan products that fit your needs.

What are the interest rates and fees for each loan type?
Understand the total cost by asking about both interest rates and associated fees.

What are the qualifying criteria for these loans?
Gauge your chances of approval by knowing the eligibility requirements.

Can you explain the loan application and approval process?
Prepare for the steps involved and understand the timelines.

What information will I need to provide for my loan application?
Get a list of necessary documents to prepare in advance.

How long does it typically take to get pre-approved and then to close the loan?
Plan your home buying process by knowing the typical timelines.

What happens if interest rates change before I close on my home?
Learn how rate changes can affect your loan, especially in a fluctuating market.

How will you help me find the best loan for my situation?
Ensure they are committed to tailoring options to your specific needs.

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We are thrilled to welcome Shawn Carlson to our First Class Mortgage team!

With over 20 years of experience, Shawn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will be invaluable to our clients and team. We are incredibly lucky to have him and we can't wait for you to meet him!

Join us in giving him a warm welcome 🏡✨

First Class Mortgage | NMLS 2520

Interest rates. Ever wonder what’s behind those numbers that seem to go up and down like a seesaw?

Well, it’s a mix of several factors:

✔️ First up, we’ve got the big player, the Federal Reserve. Think of them as the maestros of the economy, adjusting rates to keep things balanced.

✔️Then, there’s inflation – the sneaky ghost in the machine. When prices of goods rise, interest rates often follow suit, like a game of financial tag.

✔️ Don’t forget about the global economy. It’s a small world after all, and what happens overseas can ripple back to our shores.

✔️ And of course, there’s good old supply and demand. More people wanting loans means higher interest rates, just like a hot ticket concert selling out.

So next time you see interest rates change, remember it’s not just random numbers. It’s a complex dance of economics, policy, and global events. Fascinating, isn’t it?

Congratulations 🎊 Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey!

We love seeing first time home buyers and being part of their special day! Congrats to Sarah & Sawyer!

Thank you so much to Courtney Schuler by exp Realty and Dan Van Winkle First Class Mortgage - Fargo, ND for bringing these buyers to us!

We are so excited for you both and wish you all the best in your future! Congratulations and happy closing day!

Thinking about getting a home loan with your partner? Here are 10 essential questions to discuss before diving in:

🔸 What are our individual credit scores, and how will they impact our loan eligibility?
🔸 What’s our combined income, and is it stable enough to support a mortgage?
🔸 What debts and financial obligations do we each bring to the table?
🔸 How much can we comfortably afford for a monthly mortgage payment?
🔸 What type of home are we dreaming of, and what must-have features are important to us?
🔸 How does buying a home fit into our long-term financial goals?
🔸 Do we have a plan for handling unexpected expenses or income changes?
🔸 What’s our strategy for saving up for the down payment?
🔸 Are we ready for the possibility that one of us might need to cover the mortgage alone?
🔸 What’s our plan if our relationship dynamics change in the future?

Discuss these questions to ensure you’re on the same page and prepared for this exciting journey together! 🏡✨

🇺🇸 Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage and dedication will never be forgotten. Wishing everyone a reflective and peaceful Memorial Day🕊️🌟

Did you know...

✔️ Your job history can be as crucial as your credit score

While credit scores are important, lenders are increasingly valuing stable employment history when considering loan approvals.

✔️ “You might be able to use gift money for your entire down payment

Many loan programs allow you to use gifted funds for down payments, making the entry into homeownership more accessible than you might think.

✔️ Mortgage interest isn’t the only tax perk

Beyond the mortgage interest deduction, additional tax benefits, like certain home improvements, can also provide returns come tax season.

📌 SAVE this for later so you don’t lose it! Also, be sure to 💌SHARE with someone who could benefit from this info.

The real estate market in America is ever changing and evolving. The most recent changes coming involve the role a Realtor plays during your home purchase and on how Realtors are paid. First Class Mortgage has a very strong stance on this.

As a mortgage lender, we cannot overstate the invaluable role that Realtors play in the home buying process. Realtors are the glue that holds each transaction together, seamlessly. Their expertise in the local market, understanding of housing trends, and negotiation skills are essential in guiding clients through the complex journey of purchasing a home. From the initial search to the final closing, Realtors act as trusted advisors, advocating for their clients' interests every step of the way.

The collaborative relationship between mortgage lenders and Realtors is symbiotic, each relying on the other's expertise to ensure a successful transaction. Realtors not only assist buyers in finding their dream homes but also play a crucial role in facilitating communication between buyers, sellers, and lenders. Their ability to navigate potential challenges and provide timely updates fosters a sense of trust and confidence among all parties involved. Without the dedication of Realtors, many would struggle to navigate the complexities of the real estate market. Simply put, a real estate transaction is better for all parties when Realtors are involved.

At First Class Mortgage, we are incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication that Realtors bring to each transaction. Their commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and unwavering support for their clients make our jobs easier and more fulfilling. Realtors go above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of the home buying process runs smoothly, from coordinating inspections to resolving last-minute issues before closing. This in it of itself is priceless!

Realtors – we stand by you, we value you, and we support you!

-Your friends at First Class Mortgage

FM REALTORS-Fargo Moorhead Area Association of Realtors

Dan Van Winkle

Let’s Bust Some Mortgage Myths! 🏡 Heard things about getting a mortgage that sound scary? Let’s break it down:

1️⃣ Myth: You need a huge income to get a mortgage. Not true! It’s more about what you earn and spend, not just the big bucks.

2️⃣ Myth: It’s impossible to get a mortgage if you’re self-employed. Nope, it’s totally possible! You just need to show your income in a different way.

3️⃣ Myth: Once you get a mortgage, you’re stuck with it forever. Actually, you can refinance or change it as your life changes.

Buying a house might be easier than you think. Let’s talk about how to make it happen for you!

Just a friendly reminder: We’ve got more mortgage answers in our little finger than Google has in its entire database! 🤓 Whether you’re curious about rates, types of loans, or the best time to refinance, we are here to make things crystal clear. No algorithms, just real talk and tailored advice.

Happy Closing day Theresa and Matthew!

🎉🌟 Celebrating Two Decades of Dedication! 🌟🎉

👏 Let's give a HUGE round of applause to Dawn Johnson! 👏

Today marks an incredible milestone as we celebrate 20 years of her amazing dedication and hard work here at First Class Mortgage. 🎊🥳

We've been in business 21 years and Dawn was our VERY FIRST hire 20 years ago.

Dawn, your journey with us has been nothing short of inspiring. From day one, you've brought passion, and dedication to everything you do. Your unwavering commitment has not only shaped our company's success but has also touched the lives of everyone around you. First Class Mortgage would not be what it is today without YOU! 🌟

Here's to the next chapter of your journey with us! May it be filled with continued success, fulfillment, and many more cherished moments.

Congratulations, Dawn, on this incredible milestone! 🎈👏

Ready, set, tour! 🏡✨ But wait, there’s a step before you explore!

Before the home tours start, getting pre-qualified is the smart part in the mortgage dance. It’s like having a VIP pass to your dream home’s heart! Be ahead of the game, and let sellers know you’re serious!

Let’s get you pre-qualified and into your dream home!

Wishing you a joyful Easter filled with happiness, peace and many memories with your family and friends🐣🌸

Transform Your Tax Refund into a Down Payment!

🏡✨ Got a tax refund and dreaming of your own place? Let’s talk about turning that refund into your down payment!

🌟 Assess Your Refund: First things first, check how much you’ve got from your tax refund. It could be more than you think!

💡 Create a Savings Plan: Combine your refund with a savings plan. Even small amounts add up and bring you closer to your dream home.

🏦 Explore Down Payment Assistance: Many programs can help boost your down payment. Your tax refund could be the key to unlocking these opportunities.

📚 Educate Yourself: Understand the home buying process. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to mortgages and real estate.

So, don’t just dream about a home, make it happen! Your tax refund is a great stepping stone. Use it wisely and take one step closer to turning that key in your new front door! 🗝️

Hey first-time homebuyers! 🏡🌟 Ready to dive into the mortgage sphere? It can be a bit of a puzzle, but don’t worry, I’ve we've you covered. Check out these four tips:

🔹 Bank or Broker? What’s Best for You? So, you can go straight to a bank, or chat with a mortgage company ( Hello 👋, Mortgages are all we do!) We get it, banks are the go-to, but a mortgage company can zero in on what works for you, especially if your financial story isn’t cookie-cutter.

🔹 Fixed or Adjustable Rate? Let’s Break it Down: Think long-term peace of mind with a fixed-rate mortgage, or if you’re not planning to put down roots just yet, an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) might be your thing, especially if you expect your cash flow to change.

🔹 Choosing Your Loan Term – It’s All About Balance: It’s like this – a 15-year loan means you pay more each month but save on interest in the long run. A 30-year loan? Easier on your wallet each month, but you’ll pay more interest over time.

🔹 Locking in Your Rate – Get Smart: Markets can be all over the place, right? Locking in your rate can keep you safe from hikes.

Get ready to make your home buying journey a smooth ride! 🚗

Grow through what you go through. And remember…The only thing greater than the power of mind is the courage of the heart 💙

🏡✨ Navigating your mortgage can feel like a maze! Before you dive in, make sure to ask your lender these critical questions:

1️⃣ “How long will the loan process take from application to closing?” – This helps you plan your move or any other related activities. And besides, who doesn’t like a timeline to plan around?

2️⃣ “Are there any prepayment penalties on the mortgage?” – Knowing this can affect how you plan to pay off your mortgage over time.

3️⃣ “How will changes in the market affect my mortgage rate, and is it possible to lock in a rate? If so, how long will the rate be locked?” – This helps you understand your financial commitment and how market changes could impact it

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to mortgages. Let’s chat and make sure you’re equipped with all the right info!

Dreams don’t discriminate — whether you’re fifteen or fifty, your goals and dreams are always within reach. They’ll work for you as long as you work for them.

Dreaming of buying a new home? You can make it happen! You just need to know where to start and the path to take — just like any destination you travel to.

Not sure of the path to take? Give us a call and we’ll help you navigate!

Ever wonder interest rates fluctuate like they’re on a wild ride? Well, there’s an entire orchestra playing behind those numbers:

🔸 First, the Federal Reserve. These folks are like the conductors in our economic symphony, adjusting rates to keep the financial melody smooth.

🔸 Then we’ve got inflation – think of it as an unexpected plot twist. When living costs inch up, interest rates often tag along, playing a game of financial catch-up.

🔸 Don’t overlook the global economy, either. It’s a small world, indeed, and international happenings can echo all the way to our local mortgage rates.

🔸 And naturally, it boils down to supply and demand. A surge in loan applications? That’s like a sold-out concert – high demand can nudge rates higher.

So, when you see those interest rate figures doing their dance, remember, it’s not just random – it’s a complex ballet of economics, policy, and global events. Isn't it fascinating? 🤓

💕🏠 Roses are red, violets are blue, this Valentine’s Day, let’s secure the Perfect Mortgage – for You! Whether you’re cozying up with your significant other or celebrating self-love, remember that the perfect match isn’t just found in people, but in home too 😉.