Have ideas or feedback? Send us a text!

What if you could navigate the complexities of construction lending and housing market trends with expert insights at your fingertips? Join us for a compelling conversation with Taylor Ashburn, Senior Vice President of Residential Construction Lending at Westgate Bank. Taylor shares both personal milestones, including the new freedoms and challenges of having a teenage driver in the family, and professional insights. We track his path from a bank teller to a leader in the construction lending field, offering a glimpse into the unique processes at Westgate that prioritize personalized service and efficiency in draw processing.

The 2023 housing market has seen its share of trials, from the lowest permit totals since the Great Recession to mortgage rates hovering around 8%. Yet, there is hope around the corner, with projections suggesting a rebound in single-family housing permits in 2024. Taylor and I discuss the surprising surge in multifamily permits and the implications of Fannie Mae's adjusted guidelines for self-employed individuals. With increasing conforming loan limits, we look ahead to a more balanced mortgage landscape, reflecting on past market challenges and considering what the future holds.

The conversation takes a turn toward retirement planning and the critical role of homeownership in securing financial stability. We dive into the nuances of Federal Reserve decisions and their impact on loan rates, clearing up common misconceptions about their relationship with mortgage rates. Taylor underscores the value of shopping locally for lending needs, ensuring proactive support from engaged local lenders. As we wrap up, we explore the importance of strong relationships with builders and informed insurance choices, especially in light of recent natural disasters and evolving policies. Tune in for an episode packed with expert guidance and practical advice to navigate today's housing and financial markets.

Stay in touch! WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM