Josiah BurdgeConventional mortgage credit score rules shifted in 2025. Learn what changed with automated underwriting, why low loan to value can help, and what still matters
Josiah BurdgeIn today’s housing market, getting pre-approved is a smart first step—but it’s not a guarantee. According to Josiah Burdge, a seasoned loan officer, "Pre-approval is the beginning of the process, not the finish line. There are still several hurdles that can trip up buyers if they’re not prepared." Here are the most common reasons mortgage applications are denied in 2025—and what you can do to avoid them.
Josiah BurdgeAfter years of rising home prices, many buyers are understandably wondering: Is the housing market finally going to crash? Will prices come down soon?
Josiah BurdgeWhen borrowers ask how they can improve their mortgage deal, the truth is: the levers are real — and even modest adjustments can make a meaningful difference. In today’s high-rate environment, moving the needle by improving your credit score, increasing your down payment, or shortening your loan term (for example, from 30 to 15 years) can lead to better interest rates or lower monthly payments. While there’s no standard number for “how much” without running your scenario, many lenders offer side-by-side comparisons so you can see the impact of each choice.
