Good Morning Tri-Valley! It’s Cinco de Mayo AND Taco Tuesday. The stars have aligned!

The response to my first Q&A with Jai Kooner and Debbie Aynaga from UNCLE Credit Union was fantastic so we’re back for round 2!

Jai and Debbie are both experienced Mortgage Consultants with deep knowledge of the local home loan market, and I know mortgage questions are always top of mind for so many people around here.

This week, I asked them two more questions that I think a lot of readers will find helpful.

1. What Credit Score do I need?
Your credit score can affect your mortgage approval and interest rate. A higher score indicates to a lender the ability to make payments on the loan. A lower score indicates a higher risk, but it doesn’t mean you won’t be approved.

Although the guidelines can differ, 640 is a common minimum baseline for most mortgage types. If you have a low score, you may want to take some steps to increase your credit score before meeting with a lender. A higher score will increase your chances of getting a better interest rate and loan approval.

2. Do I need a 20% Down Payment?
The short answer is no. But larger down payments can help you secure a lower interest rate and avoid paying mortgage insurance. Mortgage Insurance is required on any mortgage with less than 20% down payment.

UNCLE Credit Union has been serving the Tri-Valley for more than 65 years.

Jai can be reached at [email protected] and Debbie can be reached at [email protected].

The first annual Tri-Valley Twist is bringing three days of art, culture, music, food, and wine to the entire Tri-Valley.

There are 20+ events happening throughout the weekend, including a Greek Food Festival, live music, comedy, wine tasting, car shows, chef-driven experiences, hands-on activities, a film festival, museum and art gallery tours, family-friendly pop-ups, and more.

Basically, there will be even more reasons to get out and explore the Tri-Valley! Click here for more information!

Rare South Livermore Wine Country Estate

This is a rare one in the heart of South Livermore wine country.

This private ranch estate features three separate homes, making it ideal for multi-generational living, extra guest space, or anyone looking for a true resort-style property.

The main residence includes 3 bedrooms plus an office, beautiful natural light, soaring ceilings, a bar and dining area, and an outdoor kitchen made for entertaining.

Outside, you’ll find a pool with waterfall and slide, spa, horse barn, arenas, pasture space, and a fully gated setting.

For details, contact Katie Moe at (925) 216-9083 or [email protected]

The Alameda County Fair is BACK in Pleasanton from June 19–July 12, Wednesday through Sunday.

Don’t miss 17 nights of the Big O Tires Summer Concert Series at the Cuervo Amphitheater, including R&B icons En Vogue on Friday, June 26.

With hits like Free Your Mind, My Lovin’, and Giving Him Something He Can Feel, this is sure to be a fun show.

Enter to win:

• Two general Fair admission tickets
• Two reserved Big O Tires Concert seats to En Vogue

Let’s go fly a kite!

The San Ramon Art & Wind Festival returns to Central Park on Sunday, May 24 and Monday, May 25, from 11am–6pm both days.

This longtime favorite brings together fine arts, crafts, specialty food vendors, live entertainment, children’s shows, festival food courts, family amusement zones, professional kite flying demonstrations, and free kite-making workshops.

It’s also pet-friendly, bike-friendly, and family-friendly, which makes it an easy one to add to your weekend plans.