Answers by Will LaValle

That’s a great question, and honestly one I’m hearing all the time right now. Unfortunately, in most cases you can’t take that mortgage with you. That rate is tied to the property itself, not something you can transfer to your next home. There are a few exceptions with certain loan types, but that’s usually for a buyer taking over your loan—not you moving it. That said, people are still making moves. A lot of it comes down to how the numbers look with your equity and what your next payment would be. Some people keep the current home and rent it out, others use their equity to bring the payment down, and some just decide the move makes sense for their situation regardless of the rate. The biggest thing is not guessing—just run the numbers and see what it actually looks like for you. That usually makes the decision a lot clearer.

Great question—and one that comes up pretty often. Some buyers do use funds from a 401(k) for a down payment, either through a loan or a withdrawal. Whether that’s a good move really depends on your overall financial picture, so it’s something you’ll want to review with your lender and financial advisor. From a mortgage standpoint, a 401(k) loan can impact your debt-to-income ratio, since it’s typically treated as a repayment obligation. How it’s counted can vary depending on the loan program and lender guidelines, so it’s important to confirm that upfront. The biggest thing I always suggest is making sure you’re looking at the full picture—how it affects your loan approval, your monthly payments, and your long-term financial goals. If you’d like, I can connect you with a couple of great local lenders who can walk you through the options and show you exactly how it would look in your situation.

You’re not alone—almost everyone with a low rate feels this right now. People are still moving, but they’re being more strategic. Most are using their equity to keep the new loan smaller, negotiating seller credits or rate buydowns, and focusing on a payment they’re comfortable with—not just the rate. In reality, the move usually happens when life makes sense—not when rates are perfect. The key is running the numbers on your specific situation and seeing if it works for you today, not in theory.

That really depends on what kind of lifestyle you’re looking for, but Florida continues to be one of the top choices for retirement—and for good reason. In Central Florida, you have a wide range of options depending on your preferences. Communities like The Villages are very active and social, while areas around Winter Park, Lake Mary, and Clermont offer a mix of 55+ communities and traditional neighborhoods with great access to healthcare, dining, and recreation. What I usually tell clients is to focus less on “the best community” and more on what fits you: • Lifestyle (active vs. quiet) • Proximity to family • Access to healthcare • Budget and cost of living • Maintenance level (low-maintenance vs. single-family home) A lot of people relocating to Florida are also surprised by how many options there are beyond just 55+ communities. The best first step is narrowing down the area and style of living you want—then identifying the communities that match that.