Sarah Mitchell, CFP
Personal Finance Advisor
Sarah Mitchell is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) dedicated to helping families achieve financial independence through smart homeownership. With a background in consumer advocacy, she spent a decade counseling first-time homebuyers on navigating the complex lending landscape. Sarah is a regular contributor to personal finance podcasts and workshops. Her advice focuses on practical household budgeting, down payment strategies, and avoiding 'house poor' scenarios.
Areas of Expertise
Credentials
- ✓ Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- ✓ HUD Certified Housing Counselor
- ✓ B.S. Consumer Economics
Articles by Sarah (2)
First-Time Homebuyer Guide 2026: How Much House Can You Really Afford?
A certified financial planner explains the 28/36 rule, down payment options, FHA vs conventional loans, and step-by-step calculations for first-time homebuyers in 2026.
Understanding Your Mortgage Statement: Principal, Interest, and Escrow Explained
A step-by-step breakdown of every line on your monthly mortgage statement, how payments are applied, and what changes to watch for over the life of your loan.