Market Update
Mortgage Rates Ease From Last Week: What Buyers Should Know After the August 10 Update
Mortgage rates moved lower on Monday, August 10, with Zillow data showing the average 30-year fixed purchase rate at 6.51%,…
Homeowner Learning Center
Independent, plain-English guidance on mortgage lending, underwriting, appraisals, and the home-financing process.
Government Loans
Rocket Is Gaining Ground While UWM Posts a $451.9 Million Loss
Published: August 10, 2026 Two of the biggest names in mortgage lending just reported second-quarter results, and you could almost…
FHA Loans
Found a Fixer-Upper? Here’s What FHA 203(k) Will Actually Let You Repair
FHA 203(k) financing can cover much more than cosmetic remodeling. Here is what may qualify and when Standard 203(k) is…
FHA Loans
Your Fixer-Upper Needs Work — Which FHA 203(k) Loan Actually Fits?
Limited and Standard FHA 203(k) loans handle different renovation projects. Cost matters, but the scope and complexity of the work…
FHA Loans
Want the Fixer-Upper Without a Second Loan? FHA 203(k) May Be the Answer
FHA 203(k) loans can combine a home purchase with eligible renovation costs. Here is how Limited and Standard 203(k) financing…
Market Update
UWM Links $603 Million Hedge Loss to Failed Two Harbors Deal
United Wholesale Mortgage says a large hedge established around its failed Two Harbors acquisition contributed to a $603.2 million derivatives…
FHA Loans
Want to Buy a Duplex and Rent Out the Other Unit? FHA May Let You
FHA can be used for an eligible duplex, triplex, or fourplex, but buyers often miss the occupancy and rental-income rules.
FHA Loans
The Computer Said No. Can FHA Manual Underwriting Still Save the Loan?
An automated Refer does not always mean the FHA loan is finished. A manual review may still be possible, but…
FHA Loans
Can Mom or Dad Help You Qualify for an FHA Loan Without Living There?
A parent or family member may be able to help an FHA buyer qualify without living in the home, but…
FHA Loans
Buying New Construction With FHA? This Case Number Step Can Slow You Down
A brand-new home can create extra FHA case-number steps because the lender must enter the correct construction status and supporting…