Tabitha Treber, Mortgage Banker, NMLS #30079

Tabitha Treber, Mortgage Banker, NMLS #30079 Mortgage Banker at First Merchants Bank with 15+ years experience helping people buy and refinance their homes.

A good credit score isn't the only number that matters when buying a home.Lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio...
09/03/2026

A good credit score isn't the only number that matters when buying a home.

Lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), which compares your monthly debt payments to your monthly income.

Your DTI includes things like:

✅ Rent or future mortgage payment
✅ Car, student, and personal loans
✅ Credit card minimum payments
✅ Child support / alimony
✅ Buy Now, Pay Later accounts (Affirm, Klarna, Afterpay, etc.)

A lower DTI can give you more flexibility when qualifying for a mortgage.

Aim for a ratio of 36% or lower for the best rates and terms.

And remember: just because an expense doesn't count toward DTI doesn't mean it won't affect your budget.

Thinking about buying a home? Let's talk through your numbers and explore your options. 🏡
https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Many of these programs can be combined, creating opportunities for homebuyers to reduce upfront costs and purchase soone...
09/01/2026

Many of these programs can be combined, creating opportunities for homebuyers to reduce upfront costs and purchase sooner than they may have thought possible.

Reach out anytime if you'd like to discuss your options or get a personalized mortgage quote.
https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

If you're house hunting, or if you're a realtor with clients preparing to make an offer, I'm always available to help wi...
08/31/2026

If you're house hunting, or if you're a realtor with clients preparing to make an offer, I'm always available to help with mortgage pre-approvals and answer questions along the way.

📩 Reach out to get started.

https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

In the first half of 2026, First Merchants helped 310 households access $2.95 million in down payment assistance. Our te...
08/27/2026

In the first half of 2026, First Merchants helped 310 households access $2.95 million in down payment assistance.

Our team is experienced in matching homebuyers with available grant programs to make homeownership more affordable.

If you know someone planning to purchase their first home, have them reach out. I'll help them explore what's available and see if they might qualify for assistance.
https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Many homeowners assume refinancing is only worth considering when interest rates fall.In reality, there are a variety of...
08/25/2026

Many homeowners assume refinancing is only worth considering when interest rates fall.

In reality, there are a variety of reasons people choose to refinance based on their financial goals and needs.

Some homeowners use refinancing to access home equity for renovations, consolidate higher-interest debt, pay off credit cards or personal loans, or help cover major expenses like college tuition, medical bills, or weddings.

If you’re ever curious about refinancing, I offer a free refinance analysis to help you evaluate the costs and benefits.
https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Is homeownership still worth it?For many families, the answer is still yes, especially when you look at the long-term pi...
08/20/2026

Is homeownership still worth it?

For many families, the answer is still yes, especially when you look at the long-term picture.

The Federal Reserve’s most recent Survey of Consumer Finances shows homeowners had a median net worth of nearly $396,000 in 2022, compared to about $10,000 for renters.

Homeownership can help build wealth through equity, potential appreciation, and the stability of owning something that is yours.

Thinking about homeownership? Message me for help understanding what’s possible.

If a lake home is on your mind, it’s important to understand the full picture, from financing and insurance to maintenan...
08/18/2026

If a lake home is on your mind, it’s important to understand the full picture, from financing and insurance to maintenance, taxes, and lake-life extras.

Have a specific property you’re considering? Send me the address. I can put together a monthly payment estimate so you can understand the numbers before you make a move.

📣 Attention Realtors: Condo financing rules just got stricter.Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are placing greater emphasis on...
08/17/2026

📣 Attention Realtors: Condo financing rules just got stricter.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are placing greater emphasis on the financial strength of condominium associations.

Key changes include:

• Limited reviews largely eliminated

• More scrutiny of HOA finances and insurance

• Stronger reserve funding requirements

• Expanded waiver opportunities for some 2-10 unit projects

What does this mean for your buyers and sellers?

Projects that may have sailed through financing in the past could require additional documentation and review today.

The sooner we review a condo project, the better we can identify potential issues and keep your transaction moving.

https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Many homeowners assume refinancing is only worth considering when interest rates fall.In reality, there are a variety of...
08/17/2026

Many homeowners assume refinancing is only worth considering when interest rates fall.

In reality, there are a variety of reasons people choose to refinance based on their financial goals and needs.

Some homeowners use refinancing to access home equity for renovations, consolidate higher-interest debt, pay off credit cards or personal loans, or help cover major expenses like college tuition, medical bills, or weddings.

If you’re ever curious about refinancing, I offer a free refinance analysis to help you evaluate the costs and benefits.

https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Outgrowing your home, your mortgage, or both?Your first mortgage may have fit your life perfectly when you bought your h...
08/13/2026

Outgrowing your home, your mortgage, or both?

Your first mortgage may have fit your life perfectly when you bought your home. But life changes. Growing family, changes in income, needed repairs, higher-interest debt, or plans to renovate can all be reasons to take a fresh look at your options.

Maybe you’re considering a refinance to access home equity or consolidate debt. Maybe you want to improve or expand your current home with construction or renovation financing. Or maybe you’re thinking about upsizing, downsizing, or buying something that better fits this season of life.

If your home goals have changed, reach out for a free consultation. I can help you take a fresh look and talk through your options.
https://myoc.io/tabithatreber

Address

43683 Schoenherr
Sterling Heights, MI
48313

Telephone

(734)2776430

Website

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