Financing Your Suncoast Dream Home: Insights with Oksana Middleton

Jim Sells The Suncoast: Buying and Selling Real Estate in Sarasota, Manatee County, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and Beyond

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In this episode of Jim Sells the Suncoast, Jim speaks with Oksana Middleton from Mako Loan Shark about navigating the world of real estate lending on Florida’s Suncoast. With seven years of experience, Oksana shares practical tips for securing the right mortgage and maximizing your buying power.

Episode Highlights:

1. Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Loan Options
   • Traditional Loans: Fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages for buyers with steady income and good credit.
   • Non-Traditional Loans: Flexible options like bank statement loans for self-employed buyers or those with non-standard income.
2. Timing Your Purchase in Today’s Market
   • Insights on current interest rates, the potential impact of elections, and the importance of assessing your own timing needs and market conditions.
3. Credit Scores & Loan Eligibility
   • Credit scores matter, but lenders focus on repayment history. Oksana’s programs can work with credit scores as low as 500.
4. Simplified Pre-Approval Process
   • Oksana breaks down the steps to getting pre-approved and shares how setting a clear budget early on makes the entire home-buying process smoother.
5. Preparing for Closing Costs & Down Payments
   • Tips on handling closing costs and down payments, including options from 0% to 20% down, depending on your goals and financial situation.
6. Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) Essentials
   • Why DTI matters and strategies to improve it, like reducing expenses or adding a co-borrower.
7. Home Equity as a Financial Tool
   • Leveraging home equity to make home improvements, pay off debt, or invest in more property.
8. Refinancing Opportunities
   • When it makes sense to refinance, especially if your interest rate is high.
9. Planning for Long-Term Financial Health
   • Oksana emphasizes budgeting and tracking finances monthly to stay prepared for any changes.

What’s Next?

Interested in buying or selling a home on the Suncoast, or connect with this week's guest? Reach out to Jim at [e-mail] or visit his website, Jim Sells the Suncoast.

A Personal Note from Jim:
Hey there, I’m Jim Ahearn, your go-to real estate guide and host of Jim Sells The Suncoast podcast! 🎙️✨ Dreaming of Florida life? I’ve got you covered! As your dedicated buyer's agent, I’ll handle everything from walk-throughs to closing, making your home-buying journey as smooth as a Florida breeze.

Whether you're local or tuning in from afar, I’ll bring the Suncoast to you with virtual tours and expert advice. Let’s chat about your dream home and I'll connect you with all the right people to make it happen.

Ready to move to paradise? Drop me a line – I can’t wait to help! 🌴🏡