Episodes

  • Credit Myths Busted
    Aug 26 2025

    In this episode of Maine Mortgage Minute, Alina Burke discusses the essential aspects of credit scores and their impact on home buying. She debunks common myths about needing perfect credit to qualify for a mortgage and explains the various factors lenders consider when approving loans. Alina provides practical tips for improving credit scores and emphasizes the importance of understanding one's financial situation before applying for a mortgage. The episode concludes with answers to common questions about credit checks and their effects on credit scores.

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    11 mins
  • Why Timing Matters in Home Buying
    Aug 19 2025

    In this episode of Maine Mortgage Minute, Alina Burke discusses the current state of the mortgage market, focusing on the importance of understanding interest rates, the benefits of buying a home now, and the significance of refinancing and financial planning. She emphasizes the need for pre-approval and the role of insurance in home buying, providing listeners with practical advice to navigate the mortgage landscape confidently.

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    11 mins
  • What Happens After Pre-approval?
    Aug 5 2025

    In Episode 7, join Alina Burke, your mortgage bestie, as she guides you through the crucial steps following mortgage pre-approval. From making confident offers to understanding the importance of home inspections and appraisals, Alina shares insights to ensure a smooth journey to closing day. Discover how to avoid common pitfalls, like opening new credit lines, and learn about the role of escrow accounts. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, this episode equips you with the knowledge to navigate the home buying process with confidence. Tune in to feel prepared and empowered on your path to homeownership.

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    15 mins
  • The Truth About Down Payments
    Jul 29 2025

    In this episode of Maine Mortgage Minute, Alina Burke discusses various home financing options available to potential buyers in Maine. She debunks the common myth that a 20% down payment is necessary to purchase a home and highlights several programs that allow for little or no money down. Alina explains the benefits of VA loans, USDA loans, and FHA loans, as well as assistance programs for first-time buyers. She emphasizes the importance of having a knowledgeable lender and realtor to guide buyers through the process, and addresses the concerns of self-employed individuals looking to qualify for a mortgage.

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    11 mins
  • Winning in Today’s Housing Market
    Jul 22 2025

    Summary


    In this episode, Alina Burke discusses the current state of the housing market, focusing on interest rates, home prices, and the importance of homeownership. She emphasizes the need for potential buyers to be informed and prepared, highlighting the significance of credit scores and the buying process. Alina provides practical advice for navigating the market and making sound financial decisions, encouraging listeners to seek professional guidance.

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    10 mins
  • The First-Time Buyer Blueprint
    Jul 15 2025

    Summary


    In this episode of Maine Mortgage Minute, Alina Burke discusses essential insights for first-time home buyers, including common regrets, the importance of understanding pre-approval versus pre-qualification, and the value of working with local lenders. She emphasizes the need for a supportive team and debunks the myth that a 20% down payment is necessary to buy a home. Alina encourages listeners to ask questions and seek guidance to make informed financial decisions in their home buying journey.

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    11 mins
  • Why Local Lenders Matter in Home Financing
    Jul 8 2025

    In this episode, Alina Burke discusses the significant advantages of working with local lenders in the mortgage process. She emphasizes the personalized service, local expertise, and community investment that local lenders provide, which can lead to faster processing and tailored solutions for borrowers. Additionally, she addresses common questions about mortgage payments, including how they can fluctuate over time due to various factors.

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    12 mins
  • Finding the Best Realtor for You
    Jul 1 2025

    In this episode of Maine Mortgage Minute, Alina Burke discusses how to find the right realtor for buying or selling a home. She emphasizes the importance of doing research, asking the right questions, and setting expectations with your realtor. Alina also covers the closing process and how communication plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transaction.

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    19 mins