In October 2005, Erin started in the industry and joined NewFed Mortgage. She was initially asked to come in to assist with accounting-related tasks. Over time, she learned Shipping, Closing, and Post-Closing. She has been with the company now for nearly 20 years.

When asked to share a success story from her time at NewFed, Erin explained that it’s hard to choose just one! She did note, however, that getting good feedback from the loan officers and closing attorneys is always rewarding.

What keeps her motivated? She answers with:

With many potential buyers holding off until spring, the real estate market typically experiences a lull in activity during winter. With fewer buyers in the game, you’ll face less competition for your dream home. This decreased demand often translates into increased negotiation power, allowing you to secure a better deal on the property.

Winter lets you see a home’s true colors while touring – how it handles colder temperatures, drafts, and heating efficiency. It’s a practical time to assess whether the property is truly winter-ready, helping you make a more informed decision.

The winter months often mean a less hectic real estate market. With fewer transactions taking place, mortgage lenders, real estate agents, and other professionals may have more time to dedicate to your purchase, leading to a smoother closing and a more personalized home-buying process.

Starting the new year in a new home can be a refreshing way to kick off a new marriage or job change or just a great way to step into a fresh chapter of life. If you’re considering a change and want to make a move, purchasing a home during winter could set the stage for a positive and exciting new year.

Homeowners who list their properties in the winter months often have pressing reasons for selling. Whether it’s a job relocation, financial considerations, or personal circumstances, sellers during this season are usually more motivated. This motivation can work to your advantage when negotiating the price and terms of the purchase.

Winter might not be the most conventional time to buy a home, but it comes with its own set of practical benefits. At NewFed Mortgage, we’re here to make the process smooth and straightforward, no matter the season. Consider the practical perks of winter house-hunting, and you might find yourself unlocking the door to your new home sooner than you think.

One of the most significant benefits for homeowners during tax season is the mortgage interest deduction. As a homeowner, you can deduct the interest paid on your mortgage loan from your taxable income. This deduction applies to both primary and secondary residences, and can be one of the most substantial tax breaks out there.

If you work from home (it’s called balance) you could score some deductions. Establish a dedicated working area of your home and potentially deduct a portion of your home-related expenses, such as mortgage interest, property taxes, and utilities. Turn your cozy corner into a tax haven by meeting IRS standards, keeping records, and maybe treating yourself to some new office supplies – all tax-deductible, of course!

Did you make energy-efficient upgrades to your home this year? Solar panels, efficient windows? A robot that turns off lights perhaps? Time to reap the rewards…beyond saving the planet, of course. These upgrades could make you eligible for tax credits – and there’s a lot of them! For example, the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit offers a credit for a percentage of qualified expenses for solar water heaters, solar panels, and other eligible technologies.

From mortgage interest to energy-efficient upgrades and home office finesse, you’re armed and ready to conquer tax season like a pro. Owning a home comes with its financial benefits, and optimizing your tax refund is one of them. By taking advantage of deductions like we mentioned in this article, you can significantly reduce your taxable income and maybe get yourself one of those Stanley’s everyone’s been talking about.

Remember to keep thorough records, stay informed about changes in tax laws, and seek professional advice to ensure you are making the most of this tax season.

At NewFed Mortgage, we’re not just about mortgage rates and paperwork. We’re here to empower you with knowledge and help you navigate the complexities of the homeownership journey. So, go ahead and claim those deductions and let the serious savings roll in. Here’s to a future where tax season isn’t dreaded, but celebrated!

Throughout history, African Americans have faced systemic barriers to accessing housing and financial resources. From redlining to discriminatory lending practices, the path to homeownership for Black individuals and families has been fraught with obstacles. Even today, the lingering effects of these injustices are evident in disparities in homeownership rates and wealth accumulation.

In Massachusetts, as in many parts of New England and throughout the country, the struggle for minority homeownership has been particularly challenging. Despite being home to a vibrant and thriving African American population, historical inequities have persisted. According to recent data, homeownership rates for African American families across the country remain significantly lower than those of white households. This disparity highlights the ongoing need for equitable lending practices and increased access to financial resources for marginalized communities nationwide.

We strive to empower African American families on their journey to homeownership. At NewFed, we are committed to upholding the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. Through proactive outreach, financial education initiatives, and fair lending practices, we strive to empower African American families on their journey to homeownership. We recognize that diversity is not just a box to check but an integral part of our nation’s DNA. By embracing diverse perspectives and experiences, along with having compassion for communities who have faced historical injustice, we can better serve our entire community and foster a more inclusive society.

This February, let us not only celebrate the achievements and honor the resiliency of the African American community, but also recommit ourselves to building a future where every person has equal access to the American dream of homeownership. Together, we can create a more just and equitable society for generations to come.

NewFed Mortgage Corp’s North Andover Branch NMLS #1810902

In recent years, the housing market has experienced fluctuations driven by various factors, including economic conditions, interest rates, and demographic shifts. Despite occasional volatility, the overall trend has been one of resilience and growth. With demand for housing remaining strong and inventory levels varying across regions, homeowners find themselves in a position of opportunity.

One notable trend in the current market is the appreciation of home values in many areas. This uptick in property values has translated into increased home equity for numerous homeowners. This trend has led to a growing interest for homeowners to tap into their equity through cash-out refinance loans.

A cash-out refinance loan allows homeowners to refinance their existing mortgage for an amount greater than what they owe and receive the difference in cash. Essentially, it enables homeowners to convert a portion* of their home equity into cash, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as home renovations, debt consolidation, or investment opportunities.

While cash-out refinance loans offer numerous benefits, it’s essential for homeowners to carefully evaluate their individual financial circumstances and goals before moving forward. Factors such as current mortgage rates, loan terms, and the intended use of the cash proceeds should all be taken into consideration.

At NewFed Mortgage, our team of seasoned loan officers is here to assist you every step of the way as you explore your financial flexibility as a homeowner. We provide personalized guidance and tailored solutions to help you make informed decisions that align with your long-term financial objectives.

The current housing market presents opportunities for homeowners to leverage their home equity through cash-out refinance loans. By understanding the landscape, exploring available options, and seeking expert advice, homeowners can navigate this evolving market with confidence and achieve their financial aspirations.

Whether you’re looking to reinvest in your property, consolidate debt, or pursue other financial goals, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence and ease.

If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of cash-out refinancing or have any questions about your mortgage options, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we’ll unlock the full potential of your homeownership journey.

*Typically, borrowers can only cash-out up to 80% LTV. Terms & conditions vary. Cash-out refinances might not be available on all loan products across all states. Approval subject to appraisal. Please speak with a local mortgage professional to discuss eligibility and requirements.

Emmi Sauls embarked on her journey in the mortgage industry three years ago, transitioning from a prominent marketing role at a communications company to join LenderLogix, a mortgage technology startup in Buffalo, New York. Excited by the idea of contributing to a small team of visionary entrepreneurs, Emmi quickly immersed herself in the industry. She traveled across the country for conferences, networking with seasoned professionals, and knew this was the career path for her.

Emmi joined the NewFed team last May! Introduced to Jim Janczy at a conference, Emmi found alignment in their shared enthusiasm for football (Go Bills!) and NewFed’s ambitious growth trajectory. Celebrating her upcoming one-year anniversary, Emmi reflects on her decision to join NewFed as the highlight of 2023.

Emmi thrives on the diversity and challenges inherent in her role as VP Marketing Director. Her days are a medley of creativity and strategic insight, including crafting compelling content for corporate platforms, collaborating with loan officers on custom campaigns, and developing strategies to grow NewFed’s digital presence and regional footprint.

When asked what keeps her motivated, she shared:

Now, let’s talk stats for a second. According to recent data, homeownership rates for African American families still lag behind those of white households. The gap is staggering. Policies like the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) and initiatives like HUD’s Fair Housing Act have been game-changers, but despite the progress made, disparities in homeownership rates persist. It’s a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in achieving housing equity. But through the advocacy and legacy of trailblazers like those we’ve highlighted, we’re inspired to keep pushing for positive and permanent change.

We’re committed to honoring these legacies and standing alongside today’s pioneers by championing diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything we do. Here’s to those who have paved the way, the policies that have made a difference, and the collectively working towards a future where homeownership is within reach for everyone. It takes all of us!

In light of National Women’s History Month, as we witness women’s increasing financial independence and influence in the real estate market, it’s essential to recognize the journey that led to this moment. For women considering homeownership, this history underscores the significance of their achievements and the importance of leveraging resources and support to navigate the path ahead.

At NewFed Mortgage, we are committed to empowering women to achieve their homeownership dreams. Our dedicated professionals are here to provide personalized guidance for every stage of your life.

March marks the onset of the spring selling season, typically characterized by a surge in housing inventory. Sellers tend to list their properties as the weather warms up, providing buyers with a broader selection of homes to choose from. This abundance of options allows prospective homeowners to explore various neighborhoods, styles, and features, increasing the likelihood of finding their ideal place. More options mean you’re more likely to find a property that aligns with your preferences and budget.

Spring weather offers the ideal backdrop for house-hunting adventures. Unlike the chilly conditions of winter or the scorching heat of summer, March boasts mild temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it more conducive to exploring properties and areas where you might want to live. Buyers can enjoy strolling through neighborhoods, inspecting yards, and envisioning their future life in a new home without battling extreme weather conditions. It’s a great way to see how lively a neighborhood is and even explore your future favorite spots.

Buying a home in the spring typically allows for a late spring/early summer closing date. This is ideal for families with young children who want to avoid managing moving during the school year.

In cases where your homebuying process is expedited, settling into your home in March (and the spring months that follow) allows ample time for renovations and updates before the peak summer season. Whether sprucing up the landscaping, painting interiors or tackling larger renovation projects, spring offers an ideal timeframe to enhance and personalize your new space just in time for barbecue season. By settling into your home now, you can seamlessly transition into the warmer months with a residence that reflects your style and preferences.

With increased inventory, favorable weather, spring renovations, and the timeliness of the season as it pertains to families with school-age children, spring presents an enticing opportunity for aspiring homeowners.

As you embark on your home-buying journey this spring, lean on the guidance of one of our trusted mortgage professionals at NewFed to navigate the market with confidence and clarity. Embrace the spirit of renewal and growth accompanying the season, and spring into homeownership today.