Recent Articles

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Fed Cuts Again, But Dot Plot Steers Mortgage Rate Outlook

The Fed cut rates by 0.25% and ended quantitative tightening, but the real story for the average 30-year fixed is in the dot plot and Powell’s comments. Here’s what that means for mortgage rates and homebuyers.

Published on 12/10/2025

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Is paying for a mortgage rate buydown a good idea for you?

Whether buying property or refinancing, you have the option to pay for points and lower the mortgage interest rate.

Published on 12/08/2025

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This Week in Mortgage Rates: Buyers Are Back as Rates Hover in the Low 6s

Mortgage rates bounced around but stayed in a tight range near the low 6% area this week, while purchase applications hit their highest level since early 2023 and refinance demand more than doubled compared to last year. Here’s what that means if you’re thinking about buying or refinancing.

Published on 12/06/2025

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Southern California’s mortgage loan limits get a small boost for 2026

The maximum conforming mortgage size for one unit goes to $832,750 from the 2025 maximum limit of $806,500

Published on 12/01/2025

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Stronger Data Last Week Caused a Slight Rate Bump

Stronger jobless-claims and durable-goods data from last week pushed the average 30-year fixed slightly higher, but mortgage rates are still near recent lows. Here’s what that means for buyers and homeowners

Published on 12/01/2025

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VantageScore, a new FICO competitor, may help mortgage shoppers with little credit

Reporting rent, utility or a credit card for one month may make you mortgage ready

Published on 11/24/2025

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What Today’s Jobs Report Means for Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates held steady after a mixed jobs report, with unemployment rising and job growth coming in stronger than expected. Learn what this means for homebuyers and what to watch next.

Published on 11/21/2025

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How a 50-year mortgage can improve affordability for first-time buyers

As the homebuyers grow into the home more comfortably, they can always refinance into a 30-year fixed rate.

Published on 11/17/2025

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50-Year Mortgages? Here’s What You Need to Know

The Trump administration says it’s exploring 50-year mortgage options to help with affordability. Learn what this could mean for homebuyers, monthly payments, and long-term costs.

Published on 11/11/2025

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Fannie Mae eliminating minimum 620 credit score eligibility requirement

This is good news for those who might be on the credit bubble with a low FICO score but have strong income and cash reserves

Published on 11/10/2025

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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