Buying a home involves a lot more than finding a property you love. Choosing the right loan, lender, and financing strategy can have a major impact on what you can afford and how much you ultimately pay.
In this episode of Your Home Billings, Mark Junker sits down with longtime Billings mortgage professional Kim Wallinder Moffet to talk about the home lending process and what buyers should know before they start shopping.
Kim explains the difference between working with a bank, retail lender, and mortgage broker—and why having access to multiple lenders can create more options when it comes to rates, fees, loan programs, and unique borrower situations. She also explains why buyers should get fully pre-approved before looking at homes and why the lowest advertised rate isn't always the best overall deal.
🏡 In this episode:
· Banks vs. mortgage brokers
· Why mortgage rates and costs can vary between lenders
· Comparing rates, points, fees, and lender credits
· Why full pre-approval matters before house hunting
· FHA, VA, USDA, conventional, and Montana home loan options
· Financing fixer-uppers and manufactured homes
· Common financial mistakes buyers make before closing
· Why cash and undocumented deposits can create problems
· How insurance costs can affect home affordability
· First-time homebuyer and down payment assistance programs
· What buyers should watch when following mortgage rates
Plus, Kim shares the fascinating history of the 110-year-old Billings home that now serves as her office, including its move across town, its former use as a women's pre-release facility, and the work that went into restoring its historic character.
Whether you're preparing to buy your first home or simply want to better understand your mortgage options, this conversation offers plenty to consider before making your next move.
📍 Connect with Kim Wallinder Moffet
Wallinder Mortgage
📞 406-655-4343
🌐 walendermortgage.com
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