Kelly Shea

Loan Officer

NMLS# 997058

Kelly Shea Loan Officer

Blog

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home

How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying a Home If you're dreaming of homeownership but worried your credit score might hold you back—you’re not alone. As a mortgage lender, I work with a lot of homebuyers who ask me the same question: &

Jul 18, 2025 | Purchasing a Home Refinancing a Home Interest Rates Credit

Why Your Credit Karma Score Doesn’t Match Your Mortgage Score

Why Your Credit Karma Score Doesn’t Match Your Mortgage Score

If you've ever checked your credit score on Credit Karma, your bank app, or a credit card statement—only to later find out your mortgage lender sees something completely different—you’re not alone. It’s a common source of confusion

Jul 17, 2025 | Purchasing a Home Credit

DIY Home Improvements: When to Do It Yourself and When to Call the Pros

DIY Home Improvements: When to Do It Yourself and When to Call the Pros

Taking on a home improvement project yourself can be rewarding—and it may even save you money. But not all DIY efforts increase your home's value. Some may do the opposite. If you're planning to make updates before selling or refinancing, it's impor

Jul 17, 2025 | Purchasing a Home

FHA Loans vs. Conventional Loans: Which Is Better for First-Time Buyers?

FHA Loans vs. Conventional Loans: Which Is Better for First-Time Buyers?

When buying a home as a primary residence, many borrowers find themselves comparing FHA loans and conventional loans. Both offer low down payments, competitive rates, and flexible underwriting—but there are key differences that can impact your month

Jul 16, 2025 | Purchasing a Home FHA Conventional

Dreaming of Your Own Slice of Paradise? Vacation Home Buying Considerations

Dreaming of Your Own Slice of Paradise? Vacation Home Buying Considerations

Thinking about buying a vacation home? Whether it’s a beach condo or a quiet cabin in the mountains, owning a second property can offer both personal enjoyment and long-term value. But before you buy, it’s important to understand the financial

Jul 15, 2025 | Purchasing a Home

Cap Rate: Your Key to Smart Rental Property Investing

Cap Rate: Your Key to Smart Rental Property Investing

Thinking about buying a rental property? The cap rate is a very important tool for measuring potential income and risk. What Is Cap Rate?Cap rate (capitalization rate) is a percentage that shows how much annual income a property generates compared to its

Jul 10, 2025 | Purchasing a Home