Today we’ll check out “Blue Sky Financial,” whose goal is to save you time and money so you can get outside and enjoy those beautiful blue skies a little bit more.
The young company (formed in 2020) refers to itself as a discount mortgage brokerage, meaning they work with third-party lenders to find your loan a home.
Apparently they also offer low mortgage rates, which they say are possible thanks to “digital efficiencies” aka the latest technology and less overhead.
Let’s find out more about them.
Blue Sky Financial Fast Facts
An independent discount mortgage brokerage
Offers home purchase financing and mortgage refinances
Founded in 2020, headquartered in Boise, Idaho
Has three physical locations: Boise, Sun Valley, and West Palm Beach
Employ about two dozen loan officers nationwide
Currently licensed to do business in eight states
As mentioned, Blue Sky Financial is a mortgage brokerage, meaning they link up borrowers with a wholesale mortgage lender, which actually provides the financing.
While that means they need to turn to another company to get your loan to the finish line, it gives them the advantage of offering more loan programs because they’ve got multiple lending partners.
Like other mortgage lenders, they offer home purchase financing, along with mortgage refinances.
They have three physical offices, including locations in Boise and Sun Valley, Idaho, along with a branch in West Palm Beach, Florida.
At the moment, they’re only licensed in eight states nationwide, including California, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, New Jersey, Ohio, and Washington.
It’s unclear if they plan to expand to additional states soon, or focus on those specific states for the time being.
How to Apply for a Home Loan with Blue Sky Financial
They refer to their loan process as the “10 Minute Application”
It is a digital mortgage platform powered by Ellie Mae
You can apply online, upload income and asset documents, and eSign disclosures
Their online borrower portal allows you to keep track of loan progress and receive updates along the way
Blue Sky Financial is big on making it easy to apply for a home loan, and they’ve partnered with fintech company Ellie Mae (ICE) to make that possible.
They say they offer a better mortgage experience via their “10 Minute Application,” which sounds fast enough, even if Rocket Mortgage claims you can do it in just eight minutes.
Anyway, to get started you simply visit their website, then click on “Blue Skies Start Here.”
That will take you to the digital application page where you begin filling out personal and financial information online.
When prompted, you can link financial accounts and/or upload things like pay stubs and bank statements to verify your information.
You can also eSign important disclosures with the click of a button to breeze through what is often a painstaking process.
Once submitted, a loan officer and processor will discuss pricing and prep your file to submit to the underwriting department.
Those who are looking to get pre-qualified for a mortgage can follow the same instructions listed above.
If you want to work with someone specific, you can click on the loan officer bios on their website as well, then get in touch before you apply.
It may make more sense to get loan pricing with an actual loan officer first, then proceed to the application if you’re happy with what you hear.
All in all, it appears to be pretty easy to get started with Blue Sky Financial, and you can price a loan on your own via their website as well if you don’t want to speak to anyone.
Loan Programs Offered by Blue Sky Financial
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term and cash out
Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
FHA loans
VA loans
Jumbo loans
Fixed-rate mortgages: 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, etc.
Adjustable-rate mortgages: 5/1 ARM, 7/1 ARM
While they don’t list individual loan programs on their website, my guess is they offer the full suite of offerings you’d expect to find with any big lender.
Because they’re a mortgage broker, they can send your loan to one of a variety of their partners depending on its attributes.
For example, they may have a certain partner that accepts jumbo loans, and another that’s a good fit for FHA loans or VA loans.
You can take out a home purchase loan or a refinance loan, including a rate and term refinance or a cash out refinance.
They lend on all common property types, including single-family homes, condos/townhomes, 1-4-unit investment properties, and more.
It’s unclear if they offer USDA loans or any specialty options like interest-only loans.
It would be nice if they provided more information on their website regarding available loan programs so we don’t have to guess.
Blue Sky Financial Mortgage Rates
One benefit to using Blue Sky Financial is the “Loan Pricer” found on their website.
It allows you to plug in your loan details to see today’s mortgage rates, without having to sign up or log in.
It will show you both an interest rate and price, which is the associated lender credit or points required for said rate.
You can play around to see different rates and prices across different scenarios if you’re simply shopping around, then get in touch with a loan officer to confirm pricing.
It’s a nice touch of transparency as not many lenders actually publicize their mortgage rates online.
Additionally, you may come across Blue Sky Financial’s mortgage rates on popular home loan comparison websites like Bankrate or Zillow.
So they do seem to lead with their pricing, which is a great sign if you’re shopping for the lowest rates out there.
That being said, they don’t mention anything about lender fees, so it’s not clear if they charge an application fee, loan origination fee, and so on.
Be sure to inquire about those fees as well when comparing different lenders.
Blue Sky Financial Reviews
On Zillow, Blue Sky Financial has a very respectable 4.83-star rating out of 5 from about 60 customer reviews.
Similarly, they’ve got a 4.8-star review at Bankrate from about 30 reviews, with most perfect 5-star reviews.
They’ve also got a 5.0-rating on Google from 21 reviews at last glance. While the sample sizes aren’t huge, they appear to be making customers happy thus far across all ratings sites.
Blue Sky Financial isn’t an accredited company with the Better Business Bureau, nor does it have a rating, perhaps because they’re pretty new.
In summary, while relatively young, they’re a well-liked company and seem to employ the latest technology while offering attractive mortgage rates.
That means they could be a good fit for existing homeowners looking to refinance, or even a prospective home buyer looking to make their first purchase.
Blue Sky Financial Pros and Cons
The Good
You can apply for a mortgage quickly and easily from any device
Their digital mortgage application is powered by Ellie Mae (ICE)
They let you see today’s mortgage rates via their loan pricer
Today’s homebuyers are learning that finding a move-in ready home in a good location that they can comfortably afford is about as rare as a winning Powerball ticket.
A dire housing shortage has kept prices strong and competition fierce among buyers despite high mortgage interest rates. That’s left less than a quarter of the roughly 1.1 million home listings within financial reach of the typical American household, according to a recent joint report from the National Association of Realtors® and Realtor.com®.
The housing market is short about 320,000 listings within the price range of buyers earning the median household income of $75,000 a year. These buyers can generally afford homes up to $256,000. (Listings for single-family homes, condos, townhomes, row homes, and co-ops included only existing homes and did not encompass new construction.)
“The country has the largest shortage of homes in the price range that middle-income buyers can afford,” says NAR Senior Economist Nadia Evangelou. “That can explain why the competition is strongest for these homes.
“We hear again and again that in order to address the housing affordability issue we need to add more housing to the market,” she adds. “We need to add more homes that middle-income buyers can afford.”
Even those making $100,000 can afford only about 38.6% of the homes on the market. And those needing mortgages are faced with rates nearing 7% for 30-year fixed loans, pushing monthly mortgage payments up into the stratosphere.
The problem has worsened significantly over the past five years. In 2018, there were about 810,000 homes on the market that middle-income buyers could afford. That’s compared with nearly 263,000 in April of this year.
The affordability crunch is even worse for people of color. About two-thirds of Black Americans and 59% of Hispanic Americans have household incomes below $75,000. That’s compared with 48% of white Americans and 37% of Asian Americans.
“Our country needs to add at least two affordable homes for middle-income buyers for every home listed for upper-income buyers,” Evangelou says.
Where middle-income buyers can find the fewest affordable homes for sale
Not surprisingly, the nation’s most expensive metropolitan areas had the fewest homes priced for middle-income buyers. In the whole state of California, just 3.7% of all home listings in April were affordable for buyers earning $75,000 or less.
The issue was the most acute in Silicon Valley’s San Jose, where there was just one home listing priced for buyers earning $75,000 in the entire metropolitan area. (NAR and Realtor.com looked at the 100 largest metros for their analysis. Metros include the main city and surrounding towns, suburbs, and smaller urban areas.)
The lack of affordable homes isn’t surprising as the median price in the metro was $1.53 million in May, according to Realtor.com data, which includes new construction.
In Oxnard, CA, 0.2% of homes were affordable for middle-income buyers. It was 0.6% in San Diego, 1% in San Francisco, and 1.2% in Los Angeles.
However, residents in these more expensive areas generally make more money to keep up with the higher cost of living. The median household income in these areas is typically more than $100,000, says Evangelou.
Even in less expensive, yet still pricey areas, there was a dearth of real estate priced for middle-income buyers: just 1.2% of homes in Seattle; 1.3% of homes in Austin, TX; 2% of homes in Boise, ID, and Salt Lake City; and 2.6% of homes in Sacramento, CA.
“In these very expensive areas, especially middle-income buyers can afford to buy very few listings,” says Evangelou. “It’s very difficult.”
Where middle-income buyers can find the most homes for sale
Buyers on a budget will find the greatest selection of affordable homes in the cheaper parts of the country, such as the Rust Belt and Deep South.
In West Virginia and Ohio, more than half of the homes for sale in April were affordable for middle-income buyers. About 59.3% and 55.6% of listings were priced right respectively in those states.
“Some of these areas have an oversupply of housing,” says Evangelou.
In the Youngstown, OH, metro, nearly three-quarters of the homes for sale, about 72%, were within reach of middle-income buyers. In May, the median home price in the metro was $162,450—about a third of the national median price tag of $441,445 in May, according to Realtor.com data.
The metro was followed by Akron, OH, at 61.4%; Toledo, OH, at 60.7%; Cleveland, at 58.6%; and Syracuse, NY, at 54.4%. Rounding out the top 10 were Scranton, PA, at 53.5%; Dayton, OH, at 53%; Pittsburgh, at 52.2%; Rochester, NY, at 51%; and Detroit, at 49.3%.
“Ongoing high housing costs and the scarcity of available homes continues to present budget challenges for many prospective buyers, and it’s likely keeping some buyers in the rental market or on the sidelines,” Realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale said in a statement.
“Those who are able to overcome affordability constraints may be increasingly drawn to newly constructed homes or to the suburbs and beyond, both of which may offer buyers more realistic opportunities for homeownership.”
Today we’ll check out “Loan Cabin,” yet another online mortgage lender that has turned to technology to streamline the home loan process and lower costs for its customers.
It’s seems to be a common theme these days, and if it results in more consumer choice and a cheaper mortgage, I’m all for it.
After all, few people want to visit a branch, fill out paperwork by hand, or do things the old-fashioned way, at least when it comes to a mortgage.
Loan Cabin says it can provide a quick, simple, and transparent home loan using tech. And instead of it taking 45 days or longer, they aim to close in as few as 21 days.
Loan Cabin Fast Facts
A direct-to-consumer mortgage lender
Offers home purchase financing and mortgage refinances
Founded in 2015, headquartered in Lombard, Illinois (Chicago)
Currently licensed to do business in 16 states nationwide
Aim to close loans in 21-30 days using leading edge technology
Loan Cabin is a direct mortgage lender based in Lombard, Illinois, which is a suburb of Chicago.
They are a relatively young company, having been formed in 2015. But their pitch is that of a modern lender, not a stale old bank that uses outdated processes and clunky technology.
Instead, they say they’re able to provide aggressive quoted rates in just minutes, and an initial pre-approval in 20 minutes or less, with a 100% online application process available.
The company is currently licensed in 16 states nationwide, including:
Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington.
They say they’re working to expand throughout the country.
How to Apply for a Mortgage with Loan Cabin
Visit their website and click “Get Started” to apply immediately
They offer a digital mortgage application powered by ICE
Allows you to complete most loan tasks electronically from the device of your choosing
Loans are underwritten, processed, and closed in-house using their own funds
Loan Cabin makes it easy to apply for a home loan. Simply cruise over to their website, click on “Get Started” and you’ll be in their digital mortgage application powered by ICE technology.
But before you do that, you can see their daily mortgage rates online to ensure they have competitive pricing relative to other lenders.
However you approach it, they make it simple thanks to the latest technology, which allows you to complete most tasks electronically, whether it’s uploading documents or eSigning disclosures.
Once you complete the application, a loan officer will get in touch to discuss pricing and tie any loose ends before loan submission (or provide you with a pre-approval).
Assuming you like what you hear, you can go ahead and lock your loan, order the appraisal, and wait for an underwriter to issue you a conditional approval.
All in all, they aim to close loans in three weeks as opposed to 45 days or longer, which tends to be the industry average.
They’re able to move quickly because they’re a direct mortgage lender, meaning everything is completed in-house and they uses their own funds to close loans.
Mortgage Programs Offered by Loan Cabin
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Conforming loans backed by Fannie/Freddie
Jumbo loans
FHA loans
VA loans
Fixed-rate mortgages: 15, 20, and 30-year terms
Adjustable-rate mortgages: 5/1 and 7/1 ARMs
Loan Cabin offers most of the major home loan programs you’d expect from a mortgage lender, other than perhaps USDA loans.
You can get both a home purchase loan or a mortgage refinance, including a rate and term refinance or a cash out refinance.
In terms of qualifying property types, they finance single-family homes, 1-4 unit multi-family properties, townhouses, condos, and PUDs. The only real exception is co-ops.
And you can get a mortgage on a primary residence, second home, or an investment property.
With regard to loan type, they offer conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, FHA loans, VA loans, and jumbo home loans.
It’s possible to get a fixed-rate mortgage in a 15-, 20-, or 30-year term, or an adjustable-rate mortgage, such as a 5/1 or 7/1 ARM.
Ultimately, they should have a loan program to fit most borrowers out there, whether you’re a first-time home buyer or existing homeowner.
Loan Cabin Mortgage Rates
One positive to Loan Cabin is the fact that they publicize their mortgage rates online for all to see.
So before you jump into an application, you can see where they stand pricing-wise. From what I saw, they appeared to be pretty low on all their fixed-rate offerings.
To see for yourself, simply navigate over to the “View Rates” tab on their website and you’ll be able to check out daily rates for a variety of loan programs.
You can even enter in your own loan scenario to explore different options, or to simply obtain a more customized rate.
This level of transparency is always a plus and tells us they’re going to do their best to be competitive in the pricing department versus the lenders that don’t even mention rates.
That being said, they don’t list their lender fees online, other than saying you can request a mortgage without lender fees.
While it’s nice to have that option, it’d also be helpful to know upfront if they charge a loan origination fee or any other fees.
Loan Cabin simply says it does not charge any application fees or so-called junk fees.
Loan Cabin Reviews
On Zillow, the company has a 4.84-star rating out of 5 from nearly 200 customer reviews, which is a very solid score.
A good number of those reviews indicate that the interest rate and closing costs were lower than expected as well.
Over at Bankrate, they have a similar 4.8-star rating from about 50 reviews, with most of them perfect 5-star reviews and 95% of customers saying they would recommend them.
Lastly, they’ve got a 4.4-star rating out of 5 on Google from just over 50 reviews, which while not as strong, is still quite positive.
In summary, Loan Cabin appears to be well-liked and big on technology, which aside from being convenient could also save you money if they pass the savings along as they say.
Because they are an online mortgage lender, they could be well-suited for an existing homeowner looking to save money via a refinance, or even a home buyer who is confident to do most things remotely.
Loan Cabin Pros and Cons
The Good
Can apply directly from their website on any device without a human
Offer a fully-digital mortgage application powered by ICE technology
They post their daily mortgage rates online
Plenty of home loan programs to choose from
Excellent customer reviews across all ratings websites
Lots of helpful mortgage tutorials on their website
They process, underwrite, and fund loans in-house
The Not So Much
Not licensed in all states
No brick-and-mortar locations
Do not offer USDA loans, second mortgages, or HELOCs
No mention of lender fees
Will transfer your mortgage to a loan servicer shortly after closing
While you may have not heard of “McGlone Mortgage” before, they’re making waves with their superior customer service, something that can often be elusive in the mortgage biz.
The Appleton, Wisconsin-based direct lender has some of the highest marks in the industry when it comes to borrower satisfaction, and says it’s able to offer low rates and fees at the same time thanks to technology.
Their philosophy is “Customers for Life,” with referrals from past customers and local real estate agents having delivered the majority of the company’s business.
In other words, they want to make you happy so you tell your friends and family to use them too, which could save them money on advertising dollars and keep more money in your own pocket.
In case you’re wondering, the surname McGlone is of Irish descent, and almost sounds like “loan.” So perhaps the individual that started the company was destined to dish out home loans.
McGlone Mortgage Fast Facts
Direct mortgage lender that offers refis and home purchase loans
Founded in 1999, headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin
A dba of parent company Homestead Funding Corp.
Licensed to do business in 44 states and the District of Columbia
Excels in customer satisfaction with near-perfect ratings
McGlone Mortgage is a direct-to-consumer retail mortgage lender headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin that offers home purchase financing and refinance loans.
They’ve been doing business since 1999, which is a lifetime for a mortgage lender.
The company operates as a dba of its parent Homestead Funding Corp., which is based out of Albany, NY.
Homestead funded about $2 billion in home loans last year, but it’s unclear how big McGlone Mortgage.
While their parent company mostly lends in its home state of New York, McGlone is licensed to do business in 44 states and the District of Columbia.
They don’t appear to be available in Alaska, Arkansas, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, or Ohio at the moment.
How to Apply with McGlone Mortgage
They offer a digital home loan process powered by SimpleNexus
It allows you to complete the loan application electronically from any device
You can also download their free mortgage app to take advantage of mobile document scanning
After submission, you can get updates as you go and message your loan officer instantly if you have questions
McGlone Mortgage prides itself on customer service and to that end makes it super simple to apply for a home loan.
You’ve got the option of applying from their website or via their free smartphone app, or by simply calling them up on the phone directly.
Those who prefer to work with someone specific can peruse their online loan officer directory first, then get in touch via their displayed contact information.
It’s also possible to fill out a short lead form on their website, at which point a loan officer will reach out to you.
Regardless of how you proceed, you’ll eventually land in their digital mortgage application powered by SimpleNexus that lets you complete most tasks electronically.
For example, you’ll be able to scan/upload paperwork, eSign disclosures, digitally verify income/assets, and receive real-time updates as your loan progresses.
All of it can be accessed via the online borrower portal 24/7 for maximum convenience.
Additionally, prospective home buyers can generate pre-approval letters on the fly that can be shared with real estate agents from a mobile device.
Loan Programs Offered by McGlone Mortgage
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Home renovation loans: FHA 203k or Fannie Mae HomeStyle
Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Government-backed loans: FHA/USDA/VA
High balance / super conforming loans
Jumbo home loans
Energy Efficient Mortgages
HomeReady (Fannie’s 3% down loan program)
State Bond Programs for first-time buyers
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options available in a variety of loan terms
Aside from excelling in customer satisfaction, McGlone Mortgage also offers an impressive menu of loan programs.
And they lend on all major property types and occupancies, including condos/townhomes, second homes, investment properties, and multi-unit properties.
You can get a conventional loan backed by Fannie or Freddie, a jumbo loan that exceeds the conforming loan limit, or a government loan including an FHA loan, VA loan, or USDA loan.
Those who already own a property can apply for a rate and term refinance, a cash out refinance, a streamline refinance, or a home improvement loan, including the FHA 203k or the Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation.
They also offer Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEMs), along with a jumbo mortgage up to 85% LTV that doesn’t require private mortgage insurance.
Lastly, state bond programs are available in select states that allow first-time home buyers to apply for a grant to help with down payment and/or closing costs.
In terms of specific loan programs, you can get a fixed-rate mortgage such as a 30-year, 15-year, 20-year, or 10-year fixed, or an adjustable-rate mortgage, such as a 5/1 or 7/1 ARM.
McGlone Mortgage Rates
McGlone Mortgage recently upped their game when it comes to pricing transparency. You can now find daily mortgage rates on their website for a variety of loan products.
At last glance, they displayed daily rates for the 30-year fixed and 15-year fixed for both a home purchase transaction and a refinance.
You’ll also see an FHA and VA mortgage rate, which gives us a good idea of pricing across their product menu.
From what I saw, their rates were pretty strong, especially since the fees listed (discount points) were reasonable.
You may also come across their interest rates in mortgage comparison tables on websites such as Bankrate, so keep an eye out when shopping your rate.
At the same time, lender fees don’t appear to be mentioned on their website. So it’s unclear if they charge underwriting or processing fees, or a loan origination fee.
Although I have seen them advertise on Bankrate and list what appeared to be a flat origination fee of $1,895.
As always, take the time to shop around and obtain several mortgage rate quotes before deciding on a lender. Otherwise you’re doing yourself and your wallet a disservice.
McGlone Mortgage Reviews
On Bankrate, McGlone Mortgage has a pretty amazing 5-star rating out of a possible 5 from nearly 1,300 customer reviews.
And on top of that, 100% of customers who reviewed the lender would recommend them to others.
It’s the same story over at Zillow, where the company enjoys a 4.98-star rating from over 1,000 customer reviews.
A whole lot of those reviews indicate that both the interest rate and fees/closing costs were both lower than expected. That might explain the high level of satisfaction.
Additionally, they’ve got a 4.8-star rating from about 200 customer reviews on Google, and a 4.5-star rating from 30 reviews on Yelp.
One of the reviews even mentions a customer receiving a gift package containing Wisconsin’s finest cheese. Sounds pretty above the beyond if you ask me.
The mortgage company is also an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau (since 2015) and currently boasts an ‘A+’ rating based on complaint history.
They even have a perfect 5-star rating on the BBB website, which is relatively unheard of since most people generally go there just to complain.
In summary, McGlone Mortgage could be a good choice for both home buyers and existing homeowners looking to refinance thanks to their exceptional customer satisfaction and perceived low rates/fees.
While they might not be a household name, they’re certainly legit if you take the time to read their thousands of highly positive customer reviews.
McGlone Mortgage Pros and Cons
The Pros
Can apply online via their digital mortgage platform
Also offer a free smartphone app
Tons of home loan programs to choose from
Near-perfect customer reviews across all major ratings websites
Today we’ll check out a large-scale mortgage broker by the name of Sunnyhill Financial that’s looking to start a “Doc Less Revolution.”
By that, they mean make it easier for folks to apply for a home loan without having to track down lots of paperwork, scan/upload it, fax it, etc.
Yes, all those things are still verified to ensure you’re a creditworthy borrower (it’s not 2006!).
But it’s done so in a more efficient manner (using the latest technology) so you can spend less time getting a mortgage, and more time enjoying that new low rate.
Sunnyhill Financial Fast Facts
Independent mortgage brokerage
Offers home purchase loans and refinances via it wholesale partners
Founded in 2018, headquartered in San Francisco, California
Currently licensed to do business in 10 states nationwide
Provides a digital home loan experience to their customers
Sunnyhill Financial is an independent mortgage broker, which means they connect consumers to wholesale mortgage lender partners.
This gives them the advantage of shopping your loan scenario on your behalf so you don’t have to.
For those who don’t like to comparison shop, or simply don’t have the time, a broker can accomplish the shopping piece for you by checking out rates from their partners, then presenting you with the best offer.
Aside from saving you time, it could also save you money if they match you with a lender that offers lower mortgage rates and reduced lender fees.
The San Francisco, California-based company seems to be pretty young, having been founded as recently as 2018. But says it has over 50 years of combined mortgage experience.
Currently, they’re licensed to do business in 10 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, and Utah.
They plan to roll out to additional states soon, including Maryland, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Washington.
So they should have a lot more coverage in the near future, with licensing in about half the country.
How to Apply with Sunnyhill Financial
They offer a digital mortgage application powered by Blink
Allows you to verify income, assets, and employment electronically
You can also eSign disclosures and other necessary documents
And potentially fund your loan via a virtual e-closing from the comfort of your home
As noted, the company say its starting a “Doc Less Revolution,” and instead of asking you to gather documents, they automatically verify income, assets, and tax returns for you.
This is possible thanks to Single Source Validation, which lets you use login credentials to access things like pay stubs and bank statements that are then automatically imported into your application.
And you won’t have to sign any necessary paperwork with a pen and then scan it back – they let you eSign documents and disclosures so you can speed through the process, no matter where you happen to be.
To get started, simply visit their website and click on “Apply Now” to create an online account and begin the process.
Their digital mortgage app seems to be powered by Blink, which is provided by United Wholesale Mortgage, the largest wholesale lender in the country.
Alternatively, you can request a personalized mortgage rate quote via their website first, or simply call them up to get connected with one of their loan officers.
Once your loan is submitted, you’ll be able to track status via the online borrower portal, and receive updates as your loan progresses to the next step.
Aside from it being easy and convenient, Sunnyhill Financial aims to close loans super-fast thanks to the use of the latest technology.
So if you’re the type that likes to do things remotely, potentially from a smartphone, this company might be for you.
Of course, you can still get in touch with a loan officer and loan processor along the way if and when questions arise.
Loan Programs Available at Sunnyhill Financial
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate/term, cash out, and streamline
Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Jumbo home loans
Government-backed loans: FHA and VA
Fixed-rate mortgages: 10, 15, 20, and 30-year loan terms
Adjustable-rate mortgages: 5/1, 7/1, and 10/1 ARMs
Sunnyhill Financial provides the majority of the most popular loan programs available, including conforming loans, jumbo loans, FHA loans, and VA loans.
The only major loan type missing seems to be USDA loans, along with second mortgages, such as HELOCs.
However, they lend on all property types, including single-family homes, condos, and multi-unit properties, and offer financing on second homes along with investment properties.
You can get purchase loan or a refinance loan, including rate and term and cash out refinances.
Both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage options are available in a variety of different loan terms.
Sunnyhill Financial Mortgage Rates
One slight downside to Sunnyhill Financial is the fact that they don’t publicize mortgage rates or lender fees on their website.
Of course, because they operate as a mortgage broker it means they have access to rates from all their wholesale lending partners.
As such, they can scour all their partner’s rate sheets and provide you with the most competitive rate quotes.
I believe they are approved to work with United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), so those looking to work with that company might be able to via Sunnyhill Financial.
One hint we have about rates comes from their participation in the Bankrate mortgage comparison tables. From what I saw, their rates were pretty low relative to other lenders listed.
More importantly, they offered some of the lowest mortgage APRs on the platform, which is a more important figure that factors in lender fees including discount points.
You also might be able to haggle with them if you don’t like what you hear the first time around since they can shop your loan with multiple lenders.
In terms of lender fees, they don’t mention them on their own website but I did see a flat $999 underwriting fee via their Bankrate listing.
Be sure to inquire about both rates and fees to get the best deal on your home loan.
Sunnyhill Financial Reviews
On Google, Sunnyhill Financial has a perfect 5-star rating out of 5 from just over 200 customer reviews. Both professionalism and responsiveness seem to stand out as keywords.
Over at Bankrate, the company also has a perfect 5-star rating from about 150 reviews, with 100% of reviewers saying they’d recommend them.
They’ve also got a 5-star rating on Zillow, albeit from a much smaller number of reviews (about 30 at last glance).
But most of the reviews on Zillow indicate that the interest rate was lower than expected, which is a good sign on the pricing front.
All in all, it’s pretty impressive to see perfect ratings across several major review sites – hopefully this means they consistently make their customers happy, regardless of their loan specifics.
In summary, Sunnyhill Financial seems to be excelling in customer satisfaction, perhaps thanks to their digital loan process and hopefully their low mortgage rates.
They could be a good fit for both a new home buyer or an existing homeowner looking to refinance in order to save money and/or pull cash out of their home.
The one downside might be that you’ll need to work remotely, which for some might not be a good fit if looking for a more hands-on approach.
Sunnyhill Financial Pros and Cons
The Good
Offer a digital home loan process
Can apply from any device in a matter of minutes
They’re able to shop your rate with multiple lenders because they are a broker
Plenty of loan programs to choose from
Offer virtual e-closings (sign from anywhere)
Perfect customer reviews across major ratings sites
Indiana is a hub of industry, attracting households and businesses with its vast farmlands and thriving big cities. So, it’s only natural that a variety of banks have emerged, from branches of large national banks to small local banks.
The best banks in Indiana combine minimal checking account fees with competitive rates on savings and CDs. It’s also important to look for a bank that lets you manage your account online while also getting that in-person service when you need it.
18 Best Banks in Indiana
With so many banks in Indiana, it can be tough to narrow down the options. This list can help you get started.
1. U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank is a top choice for those seeking a blend of national reach and local presence in Indiana. With eight locations in the state, U.S. Bank offers convenient access to banking services, as well as a comprehensive suite of banking products.
One standout offering is the U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account, which is currently offering a $300 sign-up bonus to new customers. This account was designed to provide customers with a simple, low-cost banking experience.
Pros:
U.S. Bank Smartly Checking account offers no monthly maintenance fees and easy mobile banking
Eight convenient branch locations in Indiana
Access to over 32,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide
Cons:
Limited physical presence compared to some larger national banks
Higher-tier checking accounts may require minimum balances or direct deposits to avoid monthly fees
2. Chase Bank
If you prefer the power of a national bank, Chase is worth considering. In addition to online and mobile banking, Chase has branches and ATMs scattered across the state. You’ll find a wide variety of banking products, including savings accounts, personal and business banking, and wealth management services.
Pros:
ATM access at more than 15,000 ATMs and 4,700 branches nationwide
Sign-up bonuses on new checking accounts
No monthly service fees with direct deposit
Cons:
Only 0.01% APY on savings
$3-$5 fee for out-of-network ATM use
3. Fifth Third Bank
Fifth Third Bank is a regional bank with branches in 11 states, including Indiana. You can find fee-free checking accounts with Fifth Third, but savings rates are less competitive than some online and local banks.
Pros:
No fees or minimum balance on Preferred Checking
Student and military accounts available
Fee-free ATM use at more than 40,000 locations
Cons:
Lower rates on savings accounts
Branch locations tend to be near larger cities
4. Chime
Chime is an online bank that offers more conveniences than usual. Your checking account not only gives you fee-free cash access at more than 60,000 ATMs, but you can deposit cash at Walgreens and 75,000+ retail locations. You can manage the rest of your account online, and you’ll get no monthly fees or overdraft charges, as well as automatic savings features.
Pros:
Deposit cash at more than 90,000 retail locations
No overdraft fees
Credit-builder credit card available with no credit check required
Cons:
No in-person customer service available
Withdrawal limits can be low
5. GO2bank
Another online-only option with cash access is GO2bank, which allows fee-free ATM transactions at 43,000 AllPoint locations. You can also deposit cash at any CVS Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Walgreens, or Walmart. Checking accounts come with no monthly fees as long as you have at least one payment deposited directly each month. Direct deposit accounts are also eligible for up to $200 in overdraft protection.
Pros:
4.50% APY on savings account
Fee-free cash access at 43,000 AllPoint ATMs nationwide
Deposit cash at CVS Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Walgreens, or Walmart locations
Cons:
No in-person customer service available
Savings APY limited to first $5,000 of balance
Direct deposit required for fee-free checking
6. First Financial Bank
One of the best banks in Indiana is First Financial Bank, an Ohio-based bank with branches throughout Indiana, as well as in Illinois and Kentucky. You’ll get all the amenities of a national bank with the exceptional customer service that comes with banking locally. Some checking account options offer discounts on loans, and you’ll get rates of up to 4.50% on CDs.
Pros:
Local branches throughout Indiana
Fee-free ATM access at 55,000+ AllPoint locations
Interactive tellers provide personal service
Cons:
$25 overdraft fee
$10 monthly maintenance fees on checking (waived with $500 balance or debit card activity)
7. First Merchants Bank
First Merchants Bank is a local bank that primarily serves Central Indiana. But you’ll find branches as far north as Fort Wayne. First Merchants Bank has been voted one of the best banks in Indiana for its attention to customer service, community focus, and mobile banking features.
First Merchants Bank has a low barrier on its fee-free checking account, letting you qualify with only a $100 balance or at least one customer-initiated transaction each statement period.
Pros:
Free checking with $100 balance or one qualifying transaction monthly
Fee-free national access at 37,000 MoneyPass ATMs
Up to 4.75% APY on 12-month CDs
Cons:
Branches limited to Northern and Central Indiana
$37 overdraft fee per transaction
8. Huntington Bank
Although it’s a regional bank, Huntington Bank is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, so Indiana was an easy fit for its expanded service area. One of Huntington’s premiere features applies to its overdrafts.
Deposit accounts qualify for 24-Hour Grace, which allows you extra time to take action if your account goes into the negative. But if you travel, be aware that Huntington’s ATM access is limited to its service area. You’ll pay $3.50 plus third-party fees for every out-of-network ATM transaction.
Pros:
24-Hour Grace allows extra time to resolve overdrafts
Fee-free ATM access at 1,434 Huntington locations
In-person service at branches throughout the service area
Cons:
$3.50 fee for out-of-network ATM transactions
Low savings account rates
9. CIT Bank
You won’t find local branches or ATMs, but CIT Bank is a great option for building savings. CIT’s Platinum Savings account offers up to 4.75% APY, and they have a no-penalty CD with rates as high as 4.80%.
Their eChecking product is impressive, as well, with no monthly maintenance fees and up to 0.25% APY on your balance. You can withdraw cash at any ATM and CIT will refund up to $30 in fees every month.
Pros:
Interest rates of up to 4.75% on savings
Great rates on no-penalty CDs
Up to $30 a month in ATM fee refunds
Cons:
No branches
No in-network ATMs
10. Centier Bank
Centier Bank is another local option considered one of the best banks in Indiana. Although it’s local, it’s certainly not small. In fact, it’s the largest family-owned bank in the state.
You’ll find branches from Fort Wayne to Indianapolis, as well as ATMs nationwide through the AllPoint and Publix Presto! networks. Savings rates pay as high as 5.00% APY when you connect your checking to your savings account.
Pros:
Up to 5.00% APY on savings account
Low monthly fees on checking accounts
Fee-free access to Centier, AllPoint, and Presto! ATMs
Cons:
$100 savings balance required to earn APY
$50 minimum opening balance
11. BMO Harris Bank
Indiana residents have access to BMO Harris Bank, a regional bank that also services Illinois, Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Kansas, Florida, and Wisconsin. You’ll find branches and ATMs across the state, with a heavy concentration in Indianapolis and Gary.
The savings account only offers 1.00% APY, but BMO’s CD rates are competitive, paying up to 4.50% APY. Currently, new BMO Harris customers can earn a $200 cash bonus on basic checking accounts and a $350 bonus on high-balance checking.
Pros:
Fee-free checking accounts
Fee-free access to more than 43,000 AllPoint ATMs
$200-$350 cash bonus for new customers
Cons:
Only 1.00% APY on savings account
$25 minimum opening deposit
12. 1st Source Bank
1st Source Bank is set up to serve banking customers in Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan, but it has a small presence in Florida as well. If you regularly travel and need cash, 1st Source Bank might not be the best option, as ATMs are limited to its service area. 1st Source will refund up to four ATM fees on their end each year, but you’ll still pay third-party ATM fees.
Pros:
Student checking option available
Offers Health Savings Accounts
Variety of loan options
Cons:
Branches are limited to Northern Indiana
Rates on CDs aren’t competitive
ATMs limited to Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan
13. Ally Bank
Another online and mobile banking option is Ally, which has an interest-bearing checking account that currently pays 0.25% APY and has no fees. You can withdraw cash at more than 43,000 AllPoint ATMs nationwide, and if you can’t find an AllPoint ATM nearby, Ally will reimburse up to $10 per statement cycle for out-of-network ATMs.
However, the best thing about Ally is its rates on savings accounts and CDs. Currently, Ally is offering up to 4.80% on CDs and up to 3.75% on your savings account.
Pros:
Great rates on CDs and savings
Fee-free access to more than 43,000 AllPoint ATMs
No fees or minimum balance requirements
Cons:
No physical branches
No cash deposit option
14. Old National Bank
With branches across Indiana, as well as in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Kentucky and Illinois, Old National Bank is a great brick-and-mortar option. Although it’s a regional bank, Old National Bank has plenty of amenities found with national banks, including a full-featured mobile app and cash deposits at select ATMs.
Pros:
Some Old National ATMs accept cash deposits
Fee-free cash withdrawals at Old National and AllPoint ATMs nationwide
Student checking accounts available
Cons:
Savings account rates lower than some competitors
Direct deposits or minimum balance required for free checking accounts
15. First Bank
For Indiana’s small business owners, First Bank is a great local Indiana bank. First Bank serves Indiana and Illinois businesses with online and mobile banking options to help you manage everything.
You’ll find a variety of financial products for small business customers, including business loans, equipment financing, and cash management tools. One downside, though, is that it’s a completely online branch, but you’ll get fee-free cash access at more than 40,000 MoneyPass ATMs nationwide.
Pros:
No-fee checking options available
Great rates on business and equipment loans
Fee-free ATM use at 40,000+ MoneyPass locations
Cons:
No local branches
Only serves Evansville, Haubstadt, Mount Vernon, Poseyville, Princeton, and Vincennes businesses
16. Regions Bank
One of many regional banks with a heavy Indiana bank presence is Regions Bank. You’ll find branches throughout Indiana, as well as in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.
Regions Bank’s checking account lacks the amenities of some online-only and national banks, with a $1,500 balance required to eliminate the monthly maintenance fees.
Pros:
Earn rewards on savings and checking through Regions Cashback Rewards
User-friendly mobile banking experience
24/7 customer support
Cons:
$1,500 balance to qualify for free checking
Branches limited to service area
$3 transaction fee for non-Regions ATM
17. Community First Bank of Indiana
If wealth management services are your top priority, consider Community First Bank of Indiana, which offers financial assistance through a dedicated investment services team.
In addition to wealth management services, Community First Bank offers the personalized customer service that’s typical of a local bank. But if you regularly travel outside the area, note that Community First has no nationwide ATM network.
Pros:
Community focus with great customer service
Fee-free checking accounts
Dedicated investment support team available
Cons:
Only seven branch locations
Fee-free ATMs limited to seven branch locations
18. Bank of America
There are benefits to a national bank like Bank of America. Like most national banks, you’ll find branches and ATMs throughout Indiana, but with Bank of America, this is found in towns throughout the country. Bank of America also offers better-than-average rates on home equity loans and auto loans.
Pros:
Automatic savings options
Earn rewards with debit card
Large ATM and branch presence nationwide
Cons:
Minimum balance or direct deposit required for free checking account
Low interest rates on savings
Life can be busy. Managing your financial life can be much easier if you find a bank that fits your needs. Whether it’s a fee-free checking account or help to build your retirement accounts, the right bank can make all the difference.
Finding the Best Banks in Indiana
Whether you’re in the market for a personal checking account or business banking options, there are plenty of FDIC-insured banks in the state. To help you narrow down your options, here are some questions to ask yourself.
How often do you visit your bank right now?
As you’re browsing a list of banks in Indiana, you probably know right away which ones have branches near you. Are you the type of person who visits your local branch frequently? Even the best checking accounts won’t benefit you if you prefer that in-person experience and your new bank doesn’t offer it.
How well do you handle online communication?
Some online, national, and regional banks offer customer service via text chat, video chat, or telephone. If this is sufficient, you’ll likely find your options up open considerably. You may choose an online bank for your checking account while you go with a bank that has a local branch for personal loans.
How often do you need cash?
Some of the smaller banks in Indiana fall short when it comes to ATM access. Having a no-fee checking account but paying $30 monthly in out-of-network ATM fees isn’t ideal. You may be better off going with a bank that charges fees, but gives you fee-free access to cash when you need it.
In honor of National Homeownership Month, Chase Home Lending unveiled on Tuesday an upgraded suite of resources for homebuyers to assist in navigating the homebuying process and managing homeownership.
One resource unveiled by Chase is Lock and Shop, which enables buyers to lock in their mortgage rate for 90 days without an upfront fee when using Chase Homebuyer Advantage. Borrowers must find their property within 60 days to take advantage of Lock and Shop, and will have the option of a one-time float down if rates improve.
Once a buyer finds their home, they can take advantage of the lender’s Closing Guarantee, which guarantees an on-time closing in as little as 21 days or the borrower will receive $5,000.
In addition, the lender is offering borrowers a number of other savings and assistance programs, like the Homebuyer Assistance Finder, which allows buyers to search for and discover homebuyer grants and assistance programs they may qualify for. Chase also offers a $5,000 grant for eligible homebuyers purchasing in majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods across the U.S.
Buyers may also have the option to take advantage of a $200 Pilot Program, which is available to prospective buyers in Houston, Ohio or Arizona who have an active loan offer from another lender. Borrowers can compare their offer to Chase’s with the assistance of a home lending advisor, and if Chase cannot match or improve upon the offer, the buyers will receive $200.
New homebuyer research
In addition to the upgraded resources, the lender also unveiled data from its latest First-Time Homebuyer Study, which shows that despite fluctuations in the housing market over the past year, 44% of respondents are confident in their ability to be financially prepared for purchasing a home in the coming year. That marks a 12% increase from the previous year.
“The homebuying process can be complex, so it’s critical that homebuyers have the right knowledge, tools, and experts to help them,” said Sean Grzebin, head of consumer originations at Chase Home Lending. “The latest set of resources from Chase, coupled with our network of home lending advisors, were designed with the current needs of homebuyers in mind, like locking in a rate and finding opportunities for savings. We’re excited for consumers to explore our updated offerings and engage with tools that can help them achieve homeownership.”
Chase said it commissioned the study to gain a better understanding of the needs of first-time homebuyers amid an uncertain economic environment. The study examined attitudes, behaviors, and expectations related to homebuying, with a particular focus on confidence and financial readiness.
The study also shows that despite the prevailing economic conditions, 58% of respondents expressed a likelihood of purchasing a home within the next 12 months, while 70% still consider homeownership as a vital step toward building wealth.
“Prospective homebuyers are eager to tap into the wealth-building capabilities that homeownership brings,” Grzebin said. “Despite market uncertainty and lengthened timelines, first-time buyers are making the necessary lifestyle adjustments to reach their homeownership goals.”
The study, based on responses from 1,900 U.S.-based consumers who have never owned a home, was conducted in Q4 2022.
Other notable findings from the survey include:
Black Americans represent 21% of first-time homebuyers in 2022
13% of first-time homebuyers are Hispanic
Single women account for 22% of first-time homebuyers
63% of respondents are aware of the financial changes and activities required to qualify for a loan
59% of respondents know the amount of money they need to purchase a home, while 46% are uncertain if they will ever be able to save enough
Chase is the consumer and commercial banking business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., a financial services firm based in the United States with $3.7 trillion in assets and operations worldwide.
This content was generated using AI, and was edited and fact-checked by HousingWire’s editors.
For some, it’s the smell of freshly cut grass and the brush of leaves in the breeze, creating an escape from daily stressors. For others, it’s a competitive arena where precision skills are honed. It’s where business is sealed with a handshake, lifelong friendships are forged, wagers are won—and drinking is not only permitted, but encouraged.
It’s been called “a good walk spoiled” (Mark Twain), “the most fun you can have without taking your clothes off” (Chi Chi Rodriguez), and “an endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle” (many, many folks).
If the allure of golf has you in its grip, as it does for so many, perhaps you’ve entertained the fantasy of living near a golf course. Affordable real estate with great proximity to a course might sound too good to be true, like hitting a hole-in-one with your first swing of the day (or ever). But we’re here to correct that notion.
The data team at Realtor.com® found the places in the U.S. that have the best balance of great access to golf courses, relatively affordable real estate, and weather best suited for days on the greens. Some of these towns you’ve surely heard of and might assume come with a high price. Others are hidden gems you might not have thought of as great golf markets.
Whether you’re a near pro, a weekend duffer, or someone who just likes the idea of living near a course, you might just find your dream home on the green. Even if you’re not a golfer, these cities offer a lot to appreciate, from excellent weather to a high quality of life.
“In most residential golf communities, it’s only about a quarter of residents who are active golfers,” says Brad Klein, a golf course design consultant and golf journalist. “So what that tells you is that a lot of people are drawn to the golf community, even if they don’t play golf.”
Most golf communities draw a highly diverse group of homebuyers who nonetheless share certain bonds: They’re physically active and crave regular social interaction, says Klein.
“If you have golf, you probably also have pickle ball, swimming, platform tennis, a gym, and a social center at the local clubhouse,” he says. “Even if you don’t play, you have all kinds of options living near this sort of community.”
The cities on our list aren’t just golf havens. Many are also places with a high quality of life, where a cost of living below the national average makes them affordable not just in terms of real estate, but also in terms of everyday expenses.
We found these places by first rounding up all the real estate listings on Realtor.com from the past year within a 10-minute drive (in normal conditions) from one or more of the 6,445 public and private golf courses in the nation that we were able to map out. Then we aggregated home price data for those listings by city.
Then we factored in the number of golf courses clustered in those areas and weighed the climate and weather patterns—favoring places with more warm days to hit the links. Finally, we selected just one place per state, to ensure geographic diversity. (Otherwise, the list would be mostly Florida towns, along with some Mississippi locations and a couple of spots in Arizona.)
Let’s tee off into our top 10 locations for finding affordable homes near a golf course.
Nearby golf courses: 28 Median list price* for homes near golf courses: $299,900
Sun City, known for decades as a golf lover’s dream community, has year-round golf weather, a staggering number of nearby courses, and real estate that’s priced about 9% below the national average, vaulting it to the top of our list.
Now, this does come with a caveat: Generally, residents must be aged 55 and up, because this planned community on the northwest corner of the Phoenix metro area is aimed at retirees. The rules for who can live there are a bit complicated, so be sure to read up on the details.
This desert oasis has been drawing golf-minded retirees since it was established in 1960. Sun City was the first active retirement community in the United States, and it earned its pioneering developer, Del Webb, a place on the cover of Time magazine in 1962.
“What’s most impressive about it is how difficult it was to get golf courses out there with so little water,” says golf expert Klein. “The course superintendents getting grass to grow out there, on decomposing granite in the middle of the desert, is just amazing. People must have thought they were crazy.”
The Sun City South Golf Course is one of the most well known of the 28 golf courses in the area.
This 1,700-square-foot, two-bedroom home that backs up to the course is listed for $325,000.
Nearby golf courses: 12 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $245,000
Situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, a little north of Fort Lauderdale, and just south of Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach has great access to golf courses and the shore. (See our annual affordable beach towns list, in case that also strikes your interest.)
The median home price for Deerfield Beach listings within 10 minutes of a golf course is $245,000, far below the national median of around $430,000. That’s because the vast majority of listings are cheaper condos and townhomes under 1,000 square feet.
The climate in Deerfield Beach is classified as a tropical rainforest, with warm, wet summers and mild, dry winters, making it an ideal location for all kinds of outdoor activities year-round.
“I was just in Deerfield Beach,” says Beth Daly, a real estate agent at Re/Max Experience in Fort Lauderdale. “We had the bluest sky, and the ocean was like a glass of water you could see all the way to the bottom.”
Daly says she frequently hears about the golf culture that buyers—especially out-of-towners—are looking for.
“I just had some golfers from Buffalo Grove, outside of Chicago,” Daly says, “They wanted a full-service club to live near, and they had plenty of options to choose from.”
Nearby golf courses: 11 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $215,000
Biloxi is a city that we see often when we look for affordable housing markets with standout quality-of-life features. Homes here are very inexpensive, at just about half of the national median list price.
And the Gulf coast climate means you golfers can hit the links just about anytime of the year. And when taking a day off from playing golf, residents here can enjoy the Biloxi beaches, with the neighboring Gulfport leading our most affordable beach towns list.
This three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom house on a third of an acre, for $324,900, is near the Sunkist Country Club’s championship 18-hole course.
Nearby golf courses: 11 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $319,000
One of the most iconic Southern cities takes a top spot on our list, with year-round golf weather, homes priced about 25% below the national median, and plenty of opportunities to hit the fairways. The coastal, Gothic city is also known for its antebellum architecture and arts and culture scene.
The whole southeastern Atlantic seaboard is thick with golf culture and an abundance of world-class courses.
“Savannah, and the areas north into the Charleston area—where we hear it called ‘Lowcountry’ golf—is really popular right now,” says Tom Coyne, a New York Times bestselling golf author. “There’s so much more to this area than just the buddy trip for one or two rounds.”
But it’s not just exclusive or high-priced courses that people should think of in the area.
“There’s a sneaky-good public golf course in Savannah, called Bacon Park, which is just really charming and very affordable, and I believe it was designed by Donald Ross [we checked, and it was], a famous golf course tech,” Coyne says. “To be able to play a Donald Ross course for whatever the greens fee is there, it’s just awesome.”
Home shoppers can find a three-bedroom home about a half-mile from the Bacon Park Golf Course for $328,000.
Nearby golf courses: 7 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $194,900
Mobile, located on the Mobile Bay spilling out into the Gulf of Mexico, has the most affordable golf-proximate real estate on our list. Home prices here are less than half the national median of $430,000 in April. And while the home prices aren’t high, the area is rich with golf history.
“Alabama is known for the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, where they have a literal trail of courses designed by the great Robert Trent Jones,” Coyne says. The famous golf course architect designed more than 500 courses between the 1930s and the 1990s.
Mobile and the surrounding areas have a subtropical climate, which means lots of rainfall, so it’s no wonder the area has been a center of golf culture since early in the 20th century.
Nearby golf courses: 22 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $290,000
The first thing golf expert Klein asked when he heard about our list: “Do you have Myrtle Beach on the list?”
Myrtle Beach has been referred to as “The Golf Capital of the World” due to the sheer number of courses and the rich golf history in the area. The economy in this oceanfront South Carolina city is driven in large part by the vibrant tourism industry, which is mostly centered on the attraction of the area’s world-class golf courses as well as its amusement parks and famed beach.
Boasting courses from the Pine Lake Country Club to TPC Myrtle Beach, this popular vacation spot is practically synonymous with the sport.
Plus, with home prices per square foot not too far from the national median figure, this golfer’s dream is not just for the well-heeled. And with a population just topping 35,000, Myrtle Beach is the smallest of places on our list, which adds to the homey feel.
For less than $100,000, golfers on a budget can find a two-bedroom condo that’s walking distance from the famous Pine Lakes Country Club.
Nearby golf courses: 13 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $569,900
About an hour east of Los Angeles, in the center of the San Bernardino Valley, you’ll find Riverside. It’s the namesake of Riverside County and the most populous city in what’s called the Inland Empire—a broad swath of Southern California’s noncoastal desert region.
With year-round golfing weather and access to more than a dozen courses within 10 minutes, Riverside has the best combo of prices, nearby golfing, and climate in the Golden State.
To be sure, Riverside is the most expensive place on our list, with homes priced more than 30% above the national average, and even more per square foot. But, in the context of California’s real estate prices, Riverside is cheap. It’s around 20% less expensive than the California average and 40% less expensive than neighboring Los Angeles.
Those looking for a place near downtown Riverside but also close to a golf course might want to look at the Jurupa Hills Country Club, where buyers can find a three-bedroom home near the greens for $455,000.
Nearby golf courses: 35 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $229,000
The last three cities on our list are all in the Midwest, where homes have historically been more affordable than in other parts of the country. In Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, homes within 10 minutes of a golf course are still 40% less expensive than the national average. And there are a surprising number of golf courses in this region.
Midwestern winters can be brutal, but the average monthly temperature is still above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for more than half of the year. While that might mean residents consider golf more of a seasonal pastime in these final three cities, the prices are less than half of what you would find in a city like Riverside, CA.
One of the most notable Indianapolis courses is built into the site of the Indianapolis 500, mixing golf with another of the town’s iconic draws.
Saddlebrook Golf Club is one of the closest to downtown Indianapolis, and for just shy of $230,000, home shoppers can get a three-bedroom home on a quarter-acre about 1,000 feet from the course.
Nearby golf courses: 26 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $239,900
Cincinnati, located on the Ohio River, boasts low home prices—and low-cost opportunities to play golf on a good public course.
“It’s so much more affordable than golfing in a place like New York or Chicago or L.A.,” says Klein of playing in smaller Midwestern cities.
Moreover, the Rust Belt city has an indelible golf tradition, in part due to the golf royalty from the area.
“In Ohio, you have a great golf history,” says Coyne. “Anyone who’s done anything big in the sport of golf has left a stamp in Ohio. And Jack Nicklaus hails from Columbus, so there’s got to be something good going on in Ohio.”
The Camargo Club, on the northeastern end of the Cincinnati area, has been ranked one of the best in the state. While the homes nearest to the course include custom-built, multimillion-dollar mansions, a three-bedroom home can be found about five minutes away for just under $280,000.
Nearby golf courses: 23 Median list price for homes near golf courses: $249,950
Golf might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Omaha, Nebraska’s largest city located on the Missouri River. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway. It also boasts one of the best zoos and aquariums in the world.
But there are many options in Omaha for those looking for a home near a golf course, says Chris Bauer, a local Realtor at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. He’s found buyers are looking for either a more affordable option, usually near a public golf course, or access to pricier private clubs.
“Those are two different sets of buyers,” he says. “For the avid golfers who would only buy on a private course, you have Shadow Ridge, Deer Creek, Happy Hollow, or the Omaha Country Club.”
And for those looking for somewhere to live near a public course: “Pacific Springs, The Knolls, or Johnny Goodman. Those are all popular. There’s a wide spectrum here,” he says.
Watch: The Best Cities in the U.S. for Home Sellers Right Now
* Median list prices are from the last year on Realtor.com.
If you’re an existing homeowner looking for a lower rate on your mortgage, Sovereign Lending Group thinks it might be able to help.
Their mantra is “Stop overpaying for your mortgage,” a common issue that affects millions of Americans.
In fact, mortgage analytics company Black Knight said there were 15.1 million high quality refinance candidates in the market as of the end of July.
And these homeowners could save a collective $4.5 billion per month if they did something about it.
What makes Sovereign Lending Group unique is that nearly every loan the company originates is a refinance. So they must have the process down pat.
Let’s learn more about them to see if they could help you save money too.
Sovereign Lending Group Fast Facts
Direct-to-consumer mortgage lender
Founded in 2005, headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA
Funded more than $2 billion in home loans during 2020
Nearly all of their production consists of refinance loans (but they also offer purchase financing)
Currently licensed to do business in 45 states and D.C.
Most active in home state of California which generated 35% of overall loan volume
Sovereign Lending Group is a direct-to-consumer retail mortgage lender based in Costa Mesa, California.
They operate a centralized call center that connects their customers with loan officers and processors.
While they offer home purchase financing, they appear to be mostly a mortgage refinance shop, with such loans accounting for nearly 100% of volume recently.
The company got its start back in 2005, right before the housing market went kaput. But they’re still here today and funding billions annually.
Last year, they originated more than $2 billion in home loans, with about half of them VA loans and the other half conventional. They also did a small amount of FHA loans as well.
Sovereign Lending Group is currently licensed to do business in 45 states and the District of Columbia, but most active in their home state of California.
They don’t appear to be available in Kansas, Missouri, New York, Ohio, or Wyoming.
How to Apply with Sovereign Lending Group
To get started, you can visit their website and click on “Apply Now,” or simply call them up on the phone.
If you go the online route, you’ll need to fill out a short lead form that includes your personal information and property details.
Once completed, a loan officer will get in touch with you to discuss loan pricing and eligibility.
Assuming you like what you hear, you’ll be able to formally apply for a mortgage online once a link is provided.
While details of their digital process are scant, they do appear to have a borrower portal where you can upload documents and eSign disclosures.
Additionally, you can check the status of your loan or view messages from your originator via the portal.
All in all, it appears they offer some digital capabilities, but perhaps less than the more tech-enabled lenders like Better Mortgage or Rocket Mortgage.
Loan Programs Offered by Sovereign Lending Group
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
FHA loans
VA loans
Second mortgages: home equity loans
Fixed-rate mortgages
Adjustable-rate mortgages
Sovereign Lending Group appears to be a no-frills lender, focusing mostly on originating low-cost mortgage refinances.
However, they do have the most common home loan types available that should suit the majority of homeowners.
This includes home purchase loans, along with all types of refinances, including cash out refinances.
You can get a conventional loan backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, an FHA loan, or a VA loan.
They appear to focus mostly on conventional and VA loans, with the latter being their most offered product. So if you’re a veteran, Sovereign Lending Group might be a good fit.
The only big loan types they seem to be missing are jumbo loans and USDA loans.
But they offer both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages in a variety of different loan terms. And apparently second mortgages too.
Sovereign Lending Group Mortgage Rates
While Sovereign Lending Group doesn’t post their mortgage rates online, you can sign up for their “Rate Watch” and get notified if and when mortgage rates drop.
In order to get today’s pricing, you’ll need to get in touch with a licensed loan officer first.
You can do this by filling out the lead form on their website or by calling them directly.
They say they “will beat virtually any mortgage rate quote,” so if you find something better, SLG might be able to do better.
Their main goal is to offer the best refinance rates and lowest closing costs possible, so to that end they appear to be a discount mortgage lender.
Of course, you’ll still need to shop around to verify that they’re low priced. And be sure to inquire about any lender fees charged.
My guess is that they specialize in the no cost refinance, in which no closing costs are paid by the borrower directly.
While it’d be nice to see their mortgage rates online, I would assume they’re competitive because they operate as a direct lender without branches.
This low-cost structure may allow them to be more competitive than the brick-and-mortar banks and lenders out there.
Sovereign Lending Group Reviews
At Experience.com, Sovereign Lending Group has an excellent 4.71-star rating out of 5 from nearly 1,400 customer reviews.
On that site, you can also see which loan officer the customer worked with, and fine-tune your search.
From there, you might be able to request that specific individual to work with if their reviews are much better than their colleagues.
Over at LendingTree, they score a 4.8 out of a possible 5 from over 1,500 reviews, with a 97% recommended rate.
In other words, only three out of 100 past customers wouldn’t recommend them to others.
On Google, they’ve got a similarly strong 4.4-star rating from about 700 reviews.
Lastly, Sovereign Lending Group is not Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited and currently has a ‘B’ rating based on customer complaint history.
To sum things up, they are very much a refinance shop so they’re probably best suited for existing homeowners.
If you’re looking for a lower interest rate on your existing mortgage, or want to pull cash out, they could be a good choice due to price and speed.
Those purchasing a home or with more complicated loan scenarios may want to look elsewhere.
Sovereign Lending Group Pros and Cons
The Pros
Specialize in mortgage refinances
Say they can beat virtually any mortgage rate quote
Offer a streamlined loan approval process
Online borrower portal to manage your loan and track status
Good selection of loan programs to choose from
Excellent customer reviews across multiple rating sites
Inside: Find out what a good salary for a single person is. Plus how much you need to afford your lifestyle and reach your ambitions.
This question has been popping up more and more lately. People are starting to wonder about their income and whether or not they’re getting paid enough.
Some people might think that their salaries are too low, while others may be wondering if they can afford these new bills piling upon them? Everyone knows someone who isn’t making what they should be, but no one really wants to talk about it out loud. This causes a sense of tension, that’s when success can make or break your career.
This is why it’s important to talk about salaries and be aware of what others are making in the industry. It might not provide the answer you’re looking for, but at least you’ll know where everyone else falls so that you can set yourself up for future success!
Believe it or not, the amount of money you make is a very personal decision.
There are many factors to take into account when deciding how much you should be earning and what your career will be like, including your age and experience.
This guide will break down the steps you should take to find out what salary is right for you in today’s society.
What is considered livable salary?
A living salary is one that covers all or most of the expenses.
Your salary should be a number that ensures you meet all of your bills and hopefully have money left over to save.
For many people, there is always a conflict between what income can meet the expenses and that salary may not be enough to conduct your life.
What is a livable salary for a single person?
A livable salary for a single person is the amount of money an individual needs in order to support themselves. This amount differs based on a number of factors, including location and an individual’s age.
There is no easy answer when it comes to determining a livable salary for a single person.
One of the biggest variables depends on the cost of living in your area and whether you share housing costs with roommates.
Other variables include the cost of food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment in that area. We will break down the livable salary by each state shortly.
What is the average salary for a single person in today’s society?
In general, though, a single person should expect to make at least $30,000-$40,000 per year in order to cover all of their basic expenses. That is considered a decent salary for a single person.
Most college graduates should expect to make at least the average salary starting out.
You need to make at least $15 an hour to meet the minimum average salary for a single person.
Learn how to calculate your annual income.
How Much Does a Single Person Need to Live by State?
To be realistic, this amount varies greatly by state!!
Especially with the number of workers moving remote, there are opportunities to increase your income by moving to a lower cost of living state. However, many employers are updating their figures to adjust accordingly.
So, how much do you need to live by your state (according to the Living Wage Calculator):
Alabama: $13.77 an hour or $28,642 per year
Alaska: $15.06 an hour or $31,325 per year
Arizona: 14.94 an hour or $31,075 per year
Arkansas: $13.29 an hour or $27,643 per year
California: $18.66 an hour or $38,813 per year
Colorado: $16.35 per hour or $34,008 per year
Connecticut: $15.98 per hour or $33,238 per year
Delaware: $15.32 per hour or $31,865 per year
District of Columbia: $20.12 an hour or $41,850 per year
Florida: $14.82 an hour or $30,826 per year
Georgia: $15.36 an hour or $31,949 per year
Hawaii: $19.43 per hour or $40,414 per year
Idaho: $13.95 an hour or $29,016 per year
Illinois: $15.37 an hour or $31,970 per year
Indiana: $13.44 an hour or $27,955 per year
Iowa: $13.62 an hour or $28,330 per year
Kansas: $13.51 an hour or $28,101 per year
Kentucky: $13.48 an hour or $28,038 per year
Louisiana: $14.06 an hour or $29,245 per year
Maine: $14.92 an hour or $31,034 per year
Maryland: $17.25 per hour or $35,880 per year
Massachusetts: $17.74 per hour or $36,899 per year
Michigan: $13.63 per hour or $28,350 per year
Minnesota: $14.90 per hour or $30,880 per year
Mississippi: $13.43 per hour or $27,934 per year
Missouri: $13.72 per hour or $28,537 per year
Montana: $13.94 per hour or $28,995 per year
Nebraska: $13.57 per hour or $28,225 per year
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Nevada: $13.67 per hour or $28,443 per year
New Hampshire: $14.47 per hour or $30,097 per year
New Jersey: $16.20 per hour or $33,696 per year
New Mexico: $13.97 per hour or $29,057 per year
New York: $18.62 per hour or $38,729 per year
North Carolina: $14.72 per hour or $30.617 per year
North Dakota: $13.08 per hour or $27,206 per year
Ohio: $13.16 per hour or $27,373 per year
Oklahoma: $13.53 per hour or $28,142 per year
Oregon: $16.85 per hour or $35,048 per year
Pennsylvania: $13.39 per hour or $27,851 per year
Rhode Island: $14.79 per hour or $30,763 per year
South Carolina: $14.58 per hour or $30,326 per year
South Dakota: $12.61 per hour or $26,299 per year
Tennessee: $13.25 per hour or $27.560 per year
Texas: $14.01 per hour or $29,140 per year
Utah: $14.52 per hour or $30,201 per year
Vermont: $14.93 per hour or $31,054 per year
Virginia: $16.61 per hour or $34,549 per year
Washington: $16.34 per hour or $33,987 per year
West Virginia: $13.38 per hour or $27,830 per year
Wisconsin: $14.02 per hour or $29,162 per year
Wyoming: $?13.19 per hour or $27,435 per year
Honestly, with the recent inflation reports, I truly believe it would be difficult for most of these salaries to be livable wages. But, reports like this, take time to be produced and lag what is truly happening in the world.
The US average cost of living single person will vary greatly depending on HCOL vs LCOL areas.
What is a good salary for a single person?
A good salary to live on is the amount of money you need in order to maintain a comfortable living.
The salary you need to live on depends on many factors, such as where you live and how much money you want to spend. The average annual salary in the US is $60,000. This figure takes into account all income sources including full-time employment, part-time employment, self-employment, investments, and other forms of income.
So, if you are single making over the median US salary of $60000, then you are in a better financial picture than most.
Honestly, I think most people would agree that livable wages are very difficult for many people to sustain a comfortable living for a long period of time. How would you feel making $13 an hour and barely scraping by?
Thus, what is considered a good salary for a single person depends on your education, training, and industry.
Good Salary for a Single Person by Age
Another factor to consider is your stage of life.
When you are just starting out in the workforce, you are at the early bell curve of your potential earnings. On the flip side, if you have been in your career for 10 or more years, you deserve to receive higher pay.
So, what salary should I be making at my age?
These numbers are heavily weighted by your education, training, and industry. These are the median earnings (source):
Just Starting Out (age 16-24): $646 weekly or $33,592 annually
Early Career (In your mid-20s – age 34): $960 weekly or $49,920 annually
Mid Career (In your mid-30s- age 44): $1127 weekly or $58,604 annually
Later Career (ages 45-64): $1149 weekly or $59,748 annually
One of the reasons a college education is heavily pushed is because all college graduates will make more than the median $60000 salary.
As you can see, that would put you above a good salary.
The best way to calculate how much you need is by using a cost of living calculator.
What is considered low-income for a single person?
The official definition of low-income for a single person is $12,000 in annual income.
The Federal Poverty Level is an annual income level that determines what a family or individual’s income must be in order to qualify as living in poverty. The number of people considered “below the poverty line” is different for each family size.
Given the federal minimum wage is $7.25, the poverty wage for a single person will be above this threshold if you work more than 32 hours per week.
Honestly, how much is low income for a single person is when you are able to make ends meet. Then, you need to find ways to increase your income.
Is a 3 percent raise good?
A 3 percent raise on a $50,000 salary would mean that the employee would make $1,500 more per year. Will that actually make an impact on you?
Well, more than likely, your raise is keeping up with inflation.
On average, inflation runs between 1.5-2% a year (source). So, a 3 percent raise would give you a net salary increase of 1%.
However, in 2022, inflation skyrocketed to over 8%. Thus, a 3 percent raise means nothing and will not help your situation. Another way to put it, you are making 5% less than you did the year before since the costs of goods have increased dramatically.
The goal is to increase your hourly wage or salary each year. However, you are in a linchpin situation based on what your employer wants to do. That is why many employees change jobs every 3-5 years to receive a bigger raise in salary.
What is a Good Salary for Single Person to Retire Early?
For many people in the FIRE movement, it is more about making a certain amount of money, saving a huge percentage, and investing that money to pay for their future life.
Specifically, these people are looking for a certain amount of net worth. Typically, $500k to $1 million in investments.
First of all, that number is very dependent on a number of factors.
So, let’s run through an example…
Current age: 25 years old
Current expenses: $30000
Annual Income: $50000
Zero net worth
You could retire in 23 years at the age of 48 with approximately $750K in investments.
However, you want a shorter time frame of 10 years… Then, you need your salary to be over $90,000 to retire by age 35.
Overall, if you want to retire early, then the more you can earn and save today will help you on your path quicker.
Here is a helpful FIRE calculator to help you based on your circumstances.
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What is a good yearly salary for a single person?
Honestly, the answer will vary from person to person based on their upbringing, education, experience, and age.
If you are making above the median income of $60k salary as a single person, then you should be doing very well for yourself.
One of the things we stress here at Money Bliss is finding ways to have more than one stream of income. That way you are not forced into a financial pickle and have more opportunities.
Also, the salary expectations for a single person (those not in a relationship) have changed greatly over the past years. The expectation is that people can provide for themselves; yet, are getting priced out of the rental and home market due to skyrocketing costs.
Now, you have to decide what is a good yearly salary for you.
What are your dreams?
Your ambitions?
Your goals in life?
Answer those questions and you will know if your salary lines up.
If not, find ways to make more money.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!