Recent Articles

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Fannie Mae’s Big Update: You May Qualify Even With a Credit Score Below 620

Fannie Mae’s new credit score policy lets lenders use automated approvals even for borrowers below 620. Here’s what that means for homebuyers who thought they couldn’t qualify.

Published on 11/08/2025

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What’s Going On With Mortgage Rates? (Explain-It-to-a-5th-Grader Version)

Mortgage rates dipped, then jumped after the Fed’s cut. A $15B corporate bond sale and stronger economic reports added pressure. Here’s the simple, kid-level way to understand what’s happening and what it means for buyers.

Published on 11/06/2025

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Economists’ forecast: Housing, Wall Street a mix of ‘we are screwed’ to ‘all good’

Most think mortgage rates will go down, while others see danger signs in labor market and homebuying affordability

Published on 11/03/2025

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Mortgage Rates Jump After the Fed’s Rate Cut — Here’s Why

The Federal Reserve cut rates again, but mortgage rates actually rose. Learn why this happens, what Powell said, and what it means for homebuyers.

Published on 10/29/2025

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Homebuyers, do you finance now or wait for Fed to drop rates?

The 30-year fixed rate averaged 6.19%, 8 basis points lower than last week

Published on 10/27/2025

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Mortgage Rates Hold Near Yearly Lows as Market Awaits Next Data

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering near 3-year lows as bond markets hold steady amid limited economic data. Learn why rates remain low and what could move them next.

Published on 10/22/2025

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Homebuyers will spend at least $1,500 before escrow closes

We're talking about the deposit, home inspection and appraisal

Published on 10/20/2025

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Gen Z and the Dream of Homeownership: Adapting to a Challenging Market

A new Realtor.com survey reveals that 1 in 5 Gen Z adults say housing affordability is their top life concern. Learn how young buyers are adapting, saving, and staying determined to achieve homeownership.

Published on 10/15/2025

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How to shop for a mortgage loan originator

Mortgage shopping can be a complicated and time-consuming process

Published on 10/13/2025

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Mortgage Rates Tick Up Slightly as Bonds Weaken and MBS Underperform

On October 9, 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate edged slightly higher to 6.38% after a weaker 30-year Treasury auction and mild MBS underperformance. Rates remain stable within a narrow range as the government shutdown continues.

Published on 10/10/2025

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How to find a buyers’ real estate agent and negotiate the commission

California law requires house hunters sign a buyer representation and broker compensation agreement before making an offer

Published on 10/06/2025

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Mortgage Rates Holds Steady After Weak Jobs Report

On October 1, 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate held at 6.37% after weak private payroll data. Bigger shifts may follow when the delayed government jobs report is released.

Published on 10/01/2025

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How to avoid overpaying for escrow and title insurance

Federal law allows homebuyers to shop and choose their settlement services

Published on 09/29/2025

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3 Reasons Home Affordability Is Improving This Fall

Affordability is finally improving this fall thanks to lower average 30-year fixed mortgage rates, slower home price growth, and rising wages. Learn why now could be the right time to buy.

Published on 09/26/2025

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Mortgage applications explode as interest rates drop

The refinance index increased 58% from the previous week and was 70% higher than the same week one year ago

Published on 09/22/2025

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Mortgage Rates Hit Yearly Lows—Then Jump After the Fed Cut. Here’s What Happened (and Why Applications Just Surged)

After touching yearly lows early in the week, the average 30-year fixed rose following the Fed’s rate cut—thanks to the dot plot and Powell’s comments. Still, mortgage applications just saw their biggest weekly jump since 2021 as homeowners reacted to earlier rate declines. Here’s what it means for buyers and homeowners.

Published on 09/19/2025

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Timing your refinance: Should you wait for Fed rate cuts?

Should you wait to refinance as rates are about to head lower? Or should you pull the trigger now, assuming you are “in the money?”

Published on 09/15/2025

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Mortgage Rates Near 11 Month Lows—What’s Next With the Fed?

The average 30-year fixed is holding near the lowest levels since October 2024 after a weak jobs report and cooler inflation. Here’s why—and what to watch at next week’s Fed meeting.

Published on 09/12/2025

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How 4 exotic mortgages can help unconventional borrowers

If a homebuyer doesn’t fit the conventional mortgage box, there is the option to use a so-called non-qualified mortgage, which often comes with higher rates and more money down

Published on 09/08/2025

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Why Mortgage Rates Move: What Every Homebuyer Should Know

Mortgage rates are holding near 10-month lows—but don’t assume they’ll stay there. Learn why rates move, what drives them, and what smart buyers and homeowners should do next.

Published on 09/03/2025