Episodes

Episode 084 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officer, Angel Saldana (NMLS #2767126) talks about the strategy of using an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) in today’s rate environment in the 4th quarter of 2026. He also stresses the need to look at the cap on the ARM that can provide some peace of mind in a rising-rate environment. Rates mentioned during the episode are as of the date of recording on 10/8/26. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company...

Episode 083 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), stress that while it may be more difficult to buy a property in some cases, the dream of home ownership is still alive and well. Whether you read financial news or watch business channels, you'll often hear discussions about whether the dream of homeownership is fading. Some say it’s harder to buy a home, others believe renting has become more popular, and there are vari...

Episode 082 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), talk about gift letters from family members. Buying a home is more challenging now than it was decades ago, as house prices have outpaced wage growth. Many families want to help their children or relatives by giving gifts while they're still alive, allowing them to enjoy seeing those resources put to use. Gifts from family members can be used for a mortgage down payment...

Episode 081 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), share what those who have embraced the gig economy need to do to buy a property. Our network also includes family members of first responders who are eager to work with us, even if they are not actively involved in law enforcement, firefighting, or similar professions. Nowadays, with the rise of the gig economy, individuals can assemble a career and income through variou...

Episode 080 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), agree that a little bit of pain in saving and buying the right home is almost always better than renting long term. Even when the process proceeds smoothly with a competent loan officer, affordable property, and favorable conditions, home ownership inevitably involves some level of challenge. For individuals seeking to purchase a home, there is an expected degree of disc...

Episode 079 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), stress the fiduciary duty to set their clients up for success. It is the responsibility of Police Mortgage to provide clients with a clear pathway, including a step-by-step plan for managing future rate adjustments. Discipline and control are key concepts, particularly for first responders, who typically possess strong risk management skills. Whether controlling emergenc...

Episode 078 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), discuss the value of an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) and when it makes sense. An ARM is best suited for those with significant down payments, ideally at least 20%—and established equity at closing. This product typically benefits experienced homebuyers who plan to stay in the property short-term and can take advantage of lower rates, potentially paying extra toward pri...

Episode 077 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), talk about the timing of purchasing a property. There is rarely a “bad” time to buy a home if you’re thinking long term and planning to stay in the property. The main risk buyers fear is buying at the peak of the housing market, but building equity and getting out of the rent cycle is almost always beneficial over a lifetime. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mo...

Episode 076 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), discuss financial habits, common mistakes, and best practices for young first responders. Daily incremental purchases can really add up and drive up debt, as well as big purchases like expensive cars. Young first responders can set themselves up for a better financial future by being diligent with their finances which includes: - Paying bills on time - Setting aside a ...

Episode 075 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), discuss the implications for mortgage payments when a first responder is injured in the line of duty. It’s critical to inform lenders promptly to prevent potential financial challenges in the event of injury and loss of overtime. Early communication, especially with an organization that cares like Police Mortgage, may enable access to options such as forbearance or defer...

Episode 074 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), talk about the relationship between Police Mortgage and The National Police Federal Credit Union. Police Mortgage is owned by The National Police Federal Credit Union, creating a relationship closer than a simple partnership. We've mentioned before on the podcast that if Police Mortgage can't assist you, The National Police Federal Credit Union or Gwen's Helping Hands mi...

Episode 073 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), remind us that you don’t have to be “house poor” when buying a property. It’s important to distinguish between what buyers are qualified for and what will actually suit their comfort and lifestyle. Striking a balance is essential; while the desire to secure a contract on a dream home is strong, it is crucial not to overextend financially. Homeownership encompasses more t...

Episode 072 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage Loan Officers, Vivian Abraham (NMLS #2451439) and Patrick Doah (NMLS #2025761), provide perspective on overtime and buying a home. Many first responders, especially police officers, work overtime to afford a home. However, it's possible to buy a house with just your base income if you manage your finances well. Mortgage pre-approvals usually start with your base salary to ensure you can handle payments comfortably. Overtime and additional jobs can b...

Episode 071 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, provides tips for empty nesters planning to downsize to a smaller home. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.com or call 312-499-8878. ...

Episode 070 of Mortgage Beat While property taxes and other factors may make buying a home in another state look attractive, the grass isn't always greener on the other side. John Aretos explains why. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to appl...

Episode 069 of Mortgage Beat Many times home ownership is a linchpin to a solid financial plan. Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, tells us why. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.comor call 312-499...

Episode 068 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, applies the organization's motto of "Don't wait" to the action of moving from renting to owning. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.co...

Episode 067 of Mortgage Beat Homebuying and home ownership requires a level of financial discipline that will pay dividends over the course of your wealth-building journey. That remains the case even in situations where down-payment assistance is available.Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs o...

Episode 066 of Mortgage Beat There’s no question that it's tougher for Gen Z homebuyers than it was for their parents and grandparents. Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, provides some valuable tips forfolks in their 20's who want to buy a property. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those...

Episode 065 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, provides an update on the End-of-Watch Loan Protection program for first responders. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.comor call 312...

Episode 064 of Mortgage Beat Police Mortgage CEO, John Aretos, looks ahead to possible opportunities in the homebuying market heading into 2026. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.comor call 312-49...

Episode 063 of Mortgage Beat John Aretos answers a home-buying question that has been around for decades. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage.comor call 312-499-8878. NMLS #268165 Police Mortgage ...

Episode 062 of Mortgage Beat Do you know which police department hired the first female police officers? It happened in one of Police Mortgage's primary markets. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to apply for a home loan go to policemortgage....

Episode 061 of Mortgage Beat In a side discussion during recording, John Aretos discusses his pride in the Chicago Police Department and the privilege Police Mortgage has to serve many of those officers. Mortgage Beat is brought to you by Police Mortgage, a full-service mortgage company dedicated to serving Police Officers and First Responders. Founded in 2008, Police Mortgage offers a variety of mortgage products tailored to meet the needs of those who serve and protect. To learn more or to a...