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We’re glad you’re here. This is your go-to source for expert advice, helpful insights, and real-world guidance as you navigate the homebuying process. Whether you're just starting to explore mortgage options, buying your first home, or adding another property to your portfolio, we’re here to help.
At 14 Days to Close, we believe the mortgage process should be simple, clear, and fast. Our goal is to break down complex topics in a way that makes sense, so you can move forward with confidence.You’ll find information on loan programs like FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans, along with tips to help you improve your credit, understand your down payment options, and stay informed about Florida’s unique real estate market. We also share helpful tools and strategies for real estate agents who want to give their clients a smoother, faster closing experience.
The real estate and mortgage world is always changing, but that doesn’t mean it has to be confusing. We’re here to give you the clarity and support you need to make smart decisions every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for ways to strengthen your offer, get pre-approved, or simply stay on top of the latest market trends, you’ll find practical, easy-to-understand guidance here.
Stick with us for timely updates, tips you can actually use, and insights into one of the most exciting real estate markets in the country. Let’s make your homeownership journey simple, stress-free, and fast.
Why Florida Has No State Income Tax and What It Means for Your Mortgage
Florida is one of the few states in the U.S. without a state income tax. That makes it a huge draw for people moving from states with high taxes. But Florida’s story goes way beyond that. The history of its tax policy has shaped the economy, influenced how people buy homes, and directly affects mortgages for residents. The origins of Florida’s no income tax go back to the years after the Civil War. The state faced massive financial challenges and relied mainly on property tax
1 day ago
Top Tampa Mortgage Solutions in 2026
Buying a home in Tampa moves fast. Listings come and go. Offers stack up. And if your financing isn’t ready, you’re already behind. That’s why working with the right mortgage broker matters. At 14 Days To Close , we help Florida buyers move quickly, confidently, and without the usual mortgage chaos. Why Tampa Buyers Work With a Mortgage Broker Big banks slow things down. Call centers pass you around. Online lenders give you estimates that fall apart once the paperwork starts.
3 days ago
FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium Explained
If you’re looking at an FHA loan, you’re going to hear the term MIP a lot. It usually shows up right next to your monthly payment, and for many buyers, it raises questions right away. What is MIP? Why do I have to pay it? How much does it cost? And does it ever go away? At 14 Days To Close , we explain FHA MIP every day because it’s one of the most misunderstood parts of FHA loans. Here's a breakdown. What Is FHA MIP MIP stands for Mortgage Insurance Premium . It’s required
Jan 22
How Long Do You Pay PMI on an FHA Loan?
If you’re considering an FHA loan , you’ve probably heard about PMI. Or more accurately, Mortgage Insurance Premium , which is what FHA loans require. At some point in the process, almost every buyer asks the same question. How long do you actually have to pay it? The answer is simple, but it might surprise you. FHA mortgage insurance works very differently from conventional PMI, and if you don’t understand the rules upfront, it can lead to frustration later. At 14 Days To Cl
Jan 20
Do Mortgages Vary State to State?
If you’re buying a home in a different state than where you live now, or even just comparing markets, it’s a fair question to ask. Do mortgages vary state to state? The short answer is yes, but not in the way you might expect. The mortgage itself follows national rules, while the costs, timelines, and experience around it can feel very different depending on where you’re buying. Understanding that difference helps you avoid surprises and make better decisions. What Stays the
Jan 15
A Comprehensive Guide to APR: What It Really Tells You About Your Mortgage
APR is one of those mortgage terms everyone sees, almost no one fully understands, and yet it can quietly influence some of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. You’ll spot APR right next to the interest rate on loan offers. It’s usually a little higher. Most people glance at it, shrug, and go right back to focusing on the rate. That’s a mistake. Not because APR is more important than the interest rate, but because it’s telling a different story altogether. What
Jan 13
Mortgage Interest Rate vs APR
When you’re shopping for a mortgage, two numbers show up almost immediately. They look similar, they’re both percentages, and they’re both important. That’s exactly why so many buyers assume they mean the same thing. They don’t. Interest rate and APR are closely related, but they’re designed to answer different questions. Understanding that difference can help you avoid choosing a loan that looks good on the surface but costs more than you expected over time. What the Interes
Jan 7
A Comprehensive Guide to Interest Rates: How They Work and Why They Matter
Interest rates are one of the most talked-about parts of buying a home and also one of the least understood. People hear rates are up. Or rates are down. Or that they missed the “good time” to buy. But very few people stop to learn what current interest rates actually are, how they work, and why they affect so much more than just a monthly payment. What an Interest Rate Really Is An interest rate is the cost of borrowing money. When you take out a mortgage, the lender gives
Jan 5
Does Bad Bunny Live in Florida?
When a global superstar keeps popping up in the same places, people start connecting dots. Between Miami appearances, high profile events, and now his upcoming Super Bowl performance , people are asking the same question again. Does Bad Bunny actually live in Florida? Not officially. But also not...no? Bad Bunny doesn't publicly list Florida as his permanent, full time residence. That said, the 31-year old Puerto-Rican rapper has spent significant time in Florida, especiall
Jan 1
How to Get Quick Mortgage Approval
Buying a home is exciting, but waiting forever for mortgage approval? Not so much. You want to move fast, right? We get it. You'll be glad to know, there are smart ways to speed up the process and get that green light quicker than you think. Why Faster Mortgage Approval Methods Matter Waiting weeks or even months for mortgage approval can be a real headache. It slows down your home buying journey and can even cost you the deal if someone else swoops in with a quicker offer. F
Dec 10, 2025
Achieving Same-Day Mortgage Pre-Approval
So, you’re ready to jump into the housing market, but the thought of waiting weeks for mortgage approval makes you want to hit snooze? I get it. Waiting around is the last thing you want when you’ve got your eye on that perfect home. What if I told you there’s a way to get instant mortgage pre-approval and speed up your homebuying journey? Yep, it’s totally possible, and I’m here to walk you through it. What Is Instant Mortgage Pre-Approval and Why Should You Care? Let’s sta
Dec 8, 2025
Getting a Mortgage with a 600 Credit Score
So, you’ve got a 600 credit score and you’re wondering if homeownership is still in the cards. Sure, a 600 score isn’t perfect, but it’s far from a deal-breaker. In fact, November isn't even over and we've already had 4 clients hit clear-to-close with FICO scores in the low 600s. So we're here to walk you through the ins and outs of getting a mortgage with that score, share some smart tips, and boost your confidence. Ready? Understanding Mortgage Options for Fair Credit First
Dec 2, 2025
Why Would a Lender Approve a Mortgage Without an Appraisal?
When you’re getting a mortgage, an appraisal is usually one of the biggest steps in the whole process. It’s how a lender confirms the home is worth what you’re paying and that they’re not lending more money than the property is realistically valued at. It’s a safety check for both you and the lender. But in some situations, lenders skip this step completely. When that happens, the mortgage can move a whole lot faster, which can be a big advantage in markets where homes get mu
Dec 1, 2025
Buying a House Outright: Benefits and Considerations
So, you’re thinking about buying a house outright? That means no mortgage, no monthly payments, just you and your new home. Sounds pretty sweet, right? But before you dive in, let’s chat about the benefits and some things you should consider. Buying a home outright isn’t just about having the cash—it’s about making a smart move that fits your lifestyle and financial goals. Why Buying a Home Outright Could Work For You First off, let’s talk about the perks. Paying cash for a h
Nov 26, 2025
The Rise of the 30-Year Mortgage: A Game Changer for Homebuyers
If you tried to buy a home in the early 1900s, the mortgage would’ve looked nothing like today’s. Most loans were short-term, often 5 to 10 years. You made interest payments during the term, then owed a huge balloon payment at the end. Down payments were much larger than what most buyers put down today. And because the loans weren’t fully amortized, you never chipped away at the full balance until that final, massive payoff. Homeownership wasn’t a middle-class norm yet. It wa
Nov 24, 2025
Your Guide to Second Mortgage Companies
Navigating the world of second mortgage companies can feel intimidating at first. These lenders let you tap into your home’s equity without selling the house you’ve worked hard for. When used wisely, that equity can become a powerful financial tool. So whether you’re trying to remodel the kitchen, knock out high-interest debt, or fund a big life milestone, a second mortgage can help you get there. Second mortgages are popular because they unlock access to cash while keeping y
Nov 22, 2025
Everything First Time Home Buyers Should Know About FHA Loans
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming until you discover how straightforward an FHA loan really is. FHA loans are one of the most beginner-friendly options for first time buyers across 49 states and Washington D.C. because they offer low down payments, flexible credit requirements, and predictable monthly payments. They make homeownership possible for buyers who don’t have perfect credit or large savings, and they remove many of the roadblocks that stop people from ge
Nov 19, 2025
14 Days To Close: First Time Home Buyer Loans Made Simple
Becoming a first time home buyer should feel exciting. Most people tell us it feels overwhelming instead. There are so many loan options, confusing terms, and outdated rules that it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why 14 Days To Close keeps things simple. You can apply online anytime , even at night or on weekends, and see your buying power in minutes. First time home buyer loans help you purchase a home with less money down, easier credit requirements, and monthly paym
Nov 17, 2025
We Funded $9 Million in Home Loans in October
Buying a home right now can feel like trying to hit a moving target. Rates shift. Inventory changes. And traditional lenders still act like it’s 1998 with their banker’s-hours schedules. But even with all that, October was one of our strongest months ever at 14 Days To Close , with $9 million funded in home loans nationwide . That growth didn’t happen by accident. It came from real buyers looking for speed, transparency, and less nonsense in the mortgage process. When people
Nov 15, 2025
Trump Floated a 50 Year Mortgage. Here Are the Pros and Cons You Actually Need To Know
When President Trump teased the idea of a 50 year mortgage on November 8th, people online reacted instantly. Some loved the thought of lower monthly payments. Others said it sounded like a trap that would keep homeowners paying interest forever. Even high profile investors like Kevin O'Leary weighed in on the issue . Since there’s no official plan yet, the best way to understand it is to look at how a 50 year mortgage would actually behave in real life. Most of us are used to
Nov 14, 2025
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