Joe Knows Mortgages Minute

News & Article

What is Mortgage Insurance?

Typically, if a borrower makes a down payment less than 20% of the purchase price of the home on a conventional conforming loan, they will need the loan insured in some way.

PITI mortgage payment thumbnail showing a home, calculator, and the four parts of PITI: principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.
Joe Knows Mortgages Minute
What is PITI?

PITI is an acronym for your payment and it stands for principal, interest, taxes and insurance.

VA loan amount 2026 maximum for veterans in Brevard County, Florida with patriotic background, money, and approved home loan imagery
Joe Knows Mortgages Minute
VA Loan Amount 2026 Brevard County: Maximum for Veterans

Many veterans believe VA loans have strict limits — but that’s not the full story. The VA loan amount in 2026 for Brevard County veterans depends on entitlement, not a hard cap.

Flat-lay with credit card, notebook labeled ‘Build Credit,’ and smartphone showing rising credit score graph
Joe Knows Mortgages Minute
How to Establish Credit: 3 Simple Steps to Get Started

Establishing credit doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach — like starting with a secured credit card, becoming an authorized user, and making on-time payments — you can build a strong credit history that sets you up for financial success, from everyday purchases to future goals like homeownership.

The Ten Commandments of Buying a Home
Joe Knows Mortgages Minute
10 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Home

There are many important steps to consider when getting ready to buy your home. These are just some of the most common pitfalls you can

When is my first mortgage payment due?

Hello! This is Joe Harris with Morgan Financial and here is your “Joe Knows Mortgages MINUTE.” This week, we answer the question: When is my