Market Update
Oil Prices Jump After U.S.-Iran Strikes: What It Could Mean for Mortgage Rates
Oil prices climbed after renewed U.S.-Iran strikes, adding a fresh inflation concern while mortgage rates remain near recent highs. Here…
Homeowner Learning Center
Independent, plain-English guidance on mortgage lending, underwriting, appraisals, and the home-financing process.
Home Purchase
Zillow Says Saving 20% Down Can Take 8.5 Years. Do You Actually Need 20%?
Zillow estimates it can take a typical household 8.5 years to save 20% down. But many mortgage programs allow less.…
Market Update
The Housing Market Is Still Stuck. One Forecast Says 2026 Could Be the Slowest Sales Year Since 2011
Mortgage rates remain near 6.7%, home sales are slowing and builders pulled back sharply in July. One new forecast says…
Government Loans
Tired of Losing to Cash Buyers? The Housing Market May Finally Be Shifting
Cash buyers still account for nearly one-third of home sales, but their market share is slipping. New data shows cash…
First-Time Buyers
If I Can Afford My Rent, Why Can’t I Qualify for a Mortgage?
If you can consistently pay your rent, it can be frustrating to hear that you don't qualify for a similar…
Market Update
Why Aren’t Mortgage Rates Falling More? The 10-Year Treasury May Be the Problem
Mortgage rates finally declined slightly, but the relief has been limited. The 10-year Treasury remains near 4.7% despite softer inflation…
Market Update
July Inflation Cools to 3.4% as Mortgage Rate Pressure Eases
July inflation cooled to 3.4%, giving the mortgage market a little breathing room. That does not guarantee lower rates, but…
Mortgage News
Borrowers Paid for Insurance They Already Had…Now NewRez Is Paying $15.5 Million
Imagine paying your homeowners insurance like you’re supposed to, only to have your mortgage servicer add another insurance policy to…
FHA Loans
Can the Seller Pay Your FHA Closing Costs? Here’s How Much Help You Can Get
FHA seller concessions can help cover closing costs, prepaid expenses, and even discount points—but the 6% rule is often misunderstood.…
Market Update
Buyers Came Back Fast When Mortgage Rates Dipped. Here’s What Changed.
Published August 12, 2026 Mortgage demand picked up last week as borrowing costs finally moved a little lower. The Mortgage…