🎉 Louisiana Mortgage Specialist | Jaclyn Litton

Choosing the right mortgage plan for your unique needs in Louisiana can seem challenging, but Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank is here to guide you through the process step by step. There are several factors to consider when selecting the best mortgage plan, and Jaclyn can help you make informed decisions based on your financial profile and homeownership goals.

• Assessing Your Financial Situation: Jaclyn will begin by evaluating your financial health, including your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. These factors help determine what loan options you qualify for and what kind of interest rates you can expect. By understanding your current financial status, Jaclyn will recommend mortgage options that offer the most favorable terms.
• Identifying Your Homeownership Goals: Your goals as a homebuyer will play a major role in selecting the best mortgage plan. Are you buying your first home, upgrading to a larger property, or looking for a vacation home? Depending on your goals, Jaclyn will suggest loan programs tailored to your needs. For instance, a fixed-rate mortgage might be ideal for those seeking long-term stability, while an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) may be more suited to buyers planning to move or refinance in a few years.
• Exploring Loan Products: Origin Bank offers a variety of loan products, including conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans, and jumbo loans. Jaclyn will help you compare these options, highlighting the benefits and potential drawbacks of each. For example, FHA loans are ideal for first-time homebuyers with lower credit scores, while jumbo loans are perfect for those purchasing high-value homes.
• Considering Loan Terms: The loan term, whether 15, 20, or 30 years, will impact your monthly payments and the total interest paid over the life of the loan. Jaclyn will explain the differences between shorter-term loans (which may save you money on interest but have higher monthly payments) and longer-term loans (which offer lower payments but more interest over time).
• Factoring in Additional Costs: Beyond your mortgage payments, you’ll need to consider costs such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, and possibly private mortgage insurance (PMI) if your down payment is less than 20%. Jaclyn will ensure that you’re financially prepared for these costs and that they fit within your overall budget.

By working with Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank, you can rest assured that you’re choosing the right mortgage plan tailored to your financial situation and long-term goals. Contact Jaclyn at (318) 747-7400 to start the process of finding the best mortgage plan for you in Louisiana.

Improving your credit score is one of the most effective ways to secure better mortgage terms and lower interest rates. Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank offers personalized strategies to help you enhance your credit score before applying for a mortgage in Louisiana.

1. Review Your Credit Report
   The first step in improving your credit score is obtaining a copy of your credit report from all three major bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Use tools like Middle Credit Score® to check for errors that might negatively affect your score. Jaclyn will assist you in identifying any discrepancies and guide you through the process of disputing incorrect information.
2. Dispute Errors on Your Credit Report
   If you find inaccuracies on your credit report, it’s essential to dispute them with the credit bureaus. Middle Credit Score® provides resources for correcting errors, such as incorrect balances or outdated personal details. Rectifying these issues can lead to an immediate boost in your credit score.
3. Reduce Your Credit Utilization
   One of the most important factors in your credit score is your credit utilization ratio, which is the percentage of available credit you’re using. To improve your score, aim to keep your utilization below 30%. Jaclyn can help you develop a strategy to pay down high-interest debt and manage your credit usage effectively.
4. Avoid Opening New Credit Accounts
   In the months before applying for a mortgage, it’s important to avoid opening new lines of credit. New credit inquiries can temporarily lower your credit score and increase your debt-to-income ratio. Jaclyn will advise you on how to maintain financial stability during this critical time.
5. Make Timely Payments
   Your payment history is one of the largest contributors to your credit score. Make sure to pay all bills on time, including credit cards, loans, and utilities. Middle Credit Score® can help you set up reminders or automatic payments to avoid late or missed payments, ensuring a strong credit profile before your mortgage application.
6. Address Negative Credit Items
   If your credit report contains negative items like collections or late payments, Jaclyn will help you develop a plan to address these issues. Middle Credit Score® provides resources to negotiate with creditors and remove negative marks, which can significantly improve your score.

By following these steps and leveraging the tools available through Middle Credit Score®, you can enhance your credit score and increase your chances of securing favorable mortgage terms. Contact Jaclyn Litton at (318) 747-7400 to discuss strategies for improving your credit score before applying for a mortgage.

Whether you’re interested in refinancing your current mortgage or making a home purchase, Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank is here to provide expert advice and support tailored to your specific needs.

Home Purchase with Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank

• Pre-Qualification and Pre-Approval: The first step in purchasing a home is getting pre-qualified or pre-approved for a mortgage. Pre-qualification offers a general estimate of how much you can borrow, while pre-approval provides a more thorough review of your financial standing. Jaclyn will guide you through both processes, helping you understand how much home you can afford and giving you an edge when making offers.
• Exploring Loan Options: Origin Bank offers a variety of loan options, including conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans. Jaclyn will work with you to compare these options and help you choose the one that best fits your financial situation and homeownership goals.
• Locking in Competitive Interest Rates: Jaclyn will help you secure the most competitive interest rates available, ensuring that you get the best possible deal on your mortgage. By staying on top of market trends, she will help you lock in a rate that aligns with your financial goals.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: Buying a home is a significant investment, and Jaclyn is committed to making the process as seamless as possible. From the initial mortgage application to closing, Jaclyn will provide clear, step-by-step guidance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Refinancing with Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank

• Lower Your Interest Rate: Refinancing your mortgage with Jaclyn can help you take advantage of lower interest rates, reducing your monthly payments and potentially saving you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Jaclyn will assess your current mortgage to determine if refinancing is the right choice for you.
• Cash-Out Refinancing: If you’ve built equity in your home, cash-out refinancing allows you to access that equity for major expenses like home improvements, debt consolidation, or education. Jaclyn will help you explore the benefits of cash-out refinancing and determine whether it’s the right option for your financial needs.
• Shorten Your Loan Term: Refinancing to a shorter loan term, such as moving from a 30-year mortgage to a 15-year mortgage, can help you pay off your home faster and save on interest. Jaclyn will guide you through the benefits of this option and help you decide if it fits your financial goals.

For more information on refinancing or purchasing a home, contact Jaclyn Litton at (318) 747-7400 to explore your mortgage options with Origin Bank.

When applying for a mortgage with Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank, having the necessary documents ready will ensure a smooth and efficient application process. Here’s what you’ll need:

General Documents Required for Mortgage Applications

• Proof of Income:
  • W-2 Forms: You’ll need W-2 forms from the last two years to verify your employment and income history.
  • Pay Stubs: Provide your most recent pay stubs (typically from the last 30 days) to confirm your current earnings.
  • Tax Returns: If you’re self-employed or have additional sources of income, you may need to submit tax returns for the past two years.
• Proof of Identity:
  • Government-Issued ID: A valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, is required to confirm your identity.
  • Social Security Number: Your Social Security number will be used to pull your credit report and verify your identity.
• Credit History:
  • Credit Report: Jaclyn will review your credit report to assess your mortgage eligibility.
  • Debt Information: You’ll need to provide documentation of any outstanding debts (such as credit cards, student loans, or auto loans) to calculate your debt-to-income ratio.
• Proof of Assets:
  • Bank Statements: Lenders will typically request the last two months of bank statements to verify your financial reserves for down payments and closing costs.
  • Retirement or Investment Account Statements: If you plan to use funds from a retirement or investment account, you’ll need to provide statements showing the available balances.
• Proof of Employment:
  • Verification of Employment: In some cases, Jaclyn may contact your employer to verify your employment status. Self-employed individuals may need to provide additional documentation, such as profit and loss statements.

Loan Program-Specific Documents

• Conventional Loans: These loans may require more detailed documentation of your income and assets.
• FHA Loans: FHA loans often require additional documentation, especially if your credit score is lower.
• VA Loans: Veterans applying for VA loans must provide a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) and military discharge papers if applicable.
• USDA Loans: USDA loans may require proof that the property is located in an eligible rural area.

By preparing these documents ahead of time, you can ensure a faster and more streamlined mortgage application process with Jaclyn Litton at Origin Bank. For more details or to begin your application, contact Jaclyn at (318) 747-7400.