Karlton Uhm, NMLS 186188 Mortgage Advisor

09/19/2026

You don’t need an entire weekend to start decluttering. Sometimes you need one simple rule. 🏡

Try the 90/90 rule: Have I used this in the last 90 days, or will I realistically use it in the next 90? If the answer to both is no, it might be time to let it go.

A little decluttering can make your home feel bigger, more functional, and simply better to live in, without spending a dime.

And yes, that closet you’ve been avoiding counts. 😅

What’s the one area of your home you know needs some attention?

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https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/18/2026

A low appraisal can feel like a deal breaker, but it doesn’t automatically mean the deal is over. 🏡

If the appraised value comes in below the purchase price, you may still have several ways to move forward. The buyer and seller could renegotiate the price; the buyer may choose to cover some or all of the appraisal gap; or other options may be available depending on the financing and purchase contract.

The key is understanding the numbers before deciding what to do next.

📲 Have questions about an appraisal or buying a home? Send me a message. I’m happy to walk you through your options.

https://myoc.io/j00Lrk0zXwn
https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/18/2026

The Fed raised rates this week, but does that mean mortgage rates automatically went up too? Not exactly. 👀🏡

The Fed doesn’t directly set mortgage rates. The bond market, inflation expectations, and the overall economy influence mortgage rates.

Meanwhile, new construction slowed, but buyers haven’t disappeared. Pending home sales actually increased slightly in August despite today’s higher-rate environment.

🎥 In this week’s market update, I break down what the Fed’s decision means, what’s happening in housing, and what I’m watching next.

Thinking about buying or refinancing? Send me a message or call/text 630-865-9635. Let’s look at the numbers and build a strategy that makes sense for you.

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https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/18/2026

Big week for rates and housing. 🏡📊

The Fed raised its benchmark rate by 0.25%, average 30-year mortgage rates moved back near 7%, and housing inventory continues to climb. But the national headlines don’t tell the whole story. Your local market can look very different.

In this week’s newsletter, I break down the latest rate news, growing inventory, and what I’m seeing in North Aurora, Schaumburg, Shawnee, and Columbus.

👇 Check out this week’s update, and if you’re buying, selling, or refinancing, send me a message. I’m always happy to help you understand the numbers.

National news and local views for the week ending Friday, September 18, 2026 Happy Friday! 🏡 It was a big week for interest rates. The Fed raised its benchmark rate by 0.

09/15/2026

Still waiting until you have 20% down to buy a home? 🏡 You may be waiting way longer than you need to.

According to Realtor.com, at today’s home prices, income levels, and typical savings rate, it could take the average household 37.5 YEARS to save a 20% down payment. 😳

Here’s what many buyers don’t realize:

You don’t need 20% down to buy a home.

Depending on your situation, there are conventional options with as little as 3% down, FHA at 3.5%, and even zero-down options for eligible VA and USDA buyers.

Instead of asking, “How long will it take me to save 20%?”

Ask, “What would it actually take for me to buy now?”

📩 DM me “DOWN PAYMENT” and let’s look at your numbers and options.

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https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/11/2026

Inflation cooled in one key area, but higher energy prices are keeping the pressure on. 📊🏡

This week, core inflation fell to its lowest level in more than five years, housing inventory kept growing, and mortgage rates remain a major factor for buyers and sellers.

Now all eyes turn to the Fed’s decision next week and what it could mean for the markets and mortgage rates.

🎥 Here’s my quick breakdown of what happened this week and what I’m watching next.

And on this 25th anniversary of September 11th, we remember the lives lost, honor the heroes, and keep their families in our thoughts. 🇺🇸 We will never forget.

Questions about buying or refinancing? Send me a message. I’m always happy to help.

https://myoc.io/j00Lrk0zXwn
https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/11/2026

Buying a home? The seller may be able to help with more than you think. 🏡💰

Your down payment isn’t the only cash you’ll need at closing. Depending on your loan program and how you structure the offer, seller concessions may cover eligible closing costs or prepaid expenses, reducing what you need to bring to closing.

The key is knowing how much the seller can contribute and how to structure the offer correctly.

That’s where having your lender and Realtor working together can make a big difference.

📲 Have questions about seller concessions or how much cash you’ll actually need to buy? Send me a message and let’s run the numbers.

https://myoc.io/j00Lrk0zXwn
https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/11/2026

What could this week’s inflation numbers mean for mortgage rates? 🏡📊

Inflation, rising energy costs, and a changing housing market are giving the Fed plenty to consider ahead of next week’s meeting. Meanwhile, housing inventory is growing, which could give buyers more choices and negotiating power.

In this week’s newsletter, I break down the national headlines and take a look at what’s happening in our local markets.

👇 Check out this week’s update below, and if you have questions about buying, refinancing, or your financing options, send me a message. I’m always happy to help.

National news and local views for the week ending Friday, September 11, 2026 Happy Friday! 🇺🇸 Before getting into this week’s market, I want to take a moment to remember and honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, the heroes who answered the call, and the families forever changed. We wil...

09/08/2026

🏡 Schaumburg’s housing market has made quite a move.

The median listing price is now $483,933, compared with $326,000 this time last year.

If you own a home in Schaumburg, that could mean more equity and more options than you realize. If you’re thinking about buying, it’s another reminder that waiting for prices to come down doesn’t always work out as planned.

Buying, selling, or just curious what these numbers could mean for you? Let’s run the numbers before you make your next move.

📲 Karlton Uhm | Mortgage Advisor
NMLS #186188

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https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day! 🇺🇸

Today is a good day to recognize the hardworking people who keep our businesses, neighborhoods, and communities moving forward.

Hope you get a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the day with family and friends.

Happy Labor Day!https://myoc.io/j00Lrk0zXwn
https://activecomp.ly/nmls/186188