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Buying real estate is even more challenging for those of us whose eyes glaze over at the mere mention of decimals, percentages or anything else that even hints of mathematics.


The financial aspect of purchasing the largest investment of your lifetime, though, is the most important. Nobody wants to lose money. Nobody wants to leave money on the table.


If you're in the market for information on mortgages, credit scores and interest rates, you've come to the right place. The financial and mortgage pros here at ActiveRain even tell you how to shop for and compare lenders, how to raise your credit score, how to get a mortgage after a short sale or foreclosure and how to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. Even Mom and Dad can't give the great advice you'll find here at ActiveRain.


Plan to spend some time here because ActiveRain's content library is massive. Lucky for you we've arranged it so that it's über user-friendly. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to put your finger on just the information you're looking for without having to surf a million other pages.

Recent blogs on Lending / Financial
By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The latest inflation data has been released, offering insight into the near-term impact of the recent tariff measures. The results indicate that despite deflationary pressure on the economy, inflation continues to trend upward with the recent, ongoing tariff wars.While the tariffs have been temporarily suspended, their effects are already being felt—consumers are experiencing price increases, and retailers have already been positioning themselves to increase prices due to the impacts of the tariff policies. While wholesale and producer inflation has seen a modest decline, this was expected as the market adjusts to the shifting economic landscape. Economists broadly predict that consumer prices will rise in the near term.These findings reinforce what consumers have already been experienc...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
Many of the home buyers we talk to struggle with down payment, meaning coming up with 10 to 20% for a down payment just isnt happening.  So what are the alternatives to a no down payment USDA Home Loan Program near Raleigh? If you are not a Veteran, qualifying for a VA Loan – then the FHA Loans in Garner and Fuquay Varina NC are the most flexible options. We CAN offer down payment assistance with this program, and that means you can live where you want to !Western Wake County, especially the areas closest to Fayetteville, are growing like wildfire. Not surprising, you can benefit from a home that’s located in “small town USA” with award winning schools!  Fuquay Varina and Garner are two cities that have benefited from this unique location. Unfortunately, USDA Home Loans, the program tha...
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By Steve and Eleanor Thorne, Mortgage Loan Johnston County
(Advantage Lending, NMLS 60596)
Here’s a North Carolina VA Home Loan Guide, useful to those looking to buy a home in North Carolina with your VA benefits. Whether you’re a first time home buyer or relocating after deployment, VA loans are one of the best military home loan options available. This guide breaks down everything Veterans and active-duty service members need to know—from eligibility and steps to closing timelines and tips for buying near bases like Fort Liberty, Camp Lejeune, and Seymour Johnson AFB.North Carolina VA Home Loan Guide: What Veterans Need to KnowIf you’re a Veteran or active-duty service member thinking about buying a home in North Carolina, the VA loan program could be your ticket to homeownership—with no down payment required. Whether you’re stationed near Fort (Bragg) Liberty, living close...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
Part of Durham County, NC qualifies for USDA mortgages – and the qualifying guidelines have recently changed!  We will cover as many USDA Home Loans Durham NC tips as we can – but feel free to reach out to us for more information.To see maps specific to where you can find a home that qualifies for this 100% financing in Durham, click hereThe maximum income is calculated per family members living at home. In general, USDA Home Loans Durham meet different income guidelines than other areas in North Carolina.The current guidelines are: 1 person in the household maximum income is $116,300 2 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 3 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 4 people in the household maximum income is $116,300 5 people in the household maximum income is $1...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
Over the weekend, the recent talks with China and the U.S. about the recent tariffs have been said to be making progress recently in Geneva, leading to restoring some stability across all sectors and markets. The prior week, the FOMC decided not to change the rates and that will likely be the case in the foreseeable future. While having less presence due to the current economic climate, this week's CPI and PPI inflation data releases remain as important as ever. These reports will offer insight into the recent impact of the trade war and help inform expectations for the near-term economic outlook.Trade DeficitThe U.S. international trade deficit, including goods and services, widened 14% in March to a record seasonally adjusted $140.5 billion, the Commerce Department said Tuesday, as co...
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Today I am interviewing Ronda Hennessy who owns Hennessy Mortgage.  If you follow my articles I often talk about Ronda who is my lender guy who is not a guy!  The topic today is Preapproval and Prequalifying and what is the difference, she also discusses the importance of your credit score.  Ronda has a program to help you raise your credit score which in turn can help you get a better interest rate on your mortgage.  Remember a lower interest rate will help bring down your monthly mortgage payment.If you are planning on shopping for a home remember we need either proof of funds, preapproval, or a prequalifying letter from either a lender or a statement of funds available.  Shop your mortgage is a great suggest from both Ronda and me.  She explains the difference between a hard pull and...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Home Buyer Programs SHIP First Time Homebuyers Program The City of Pensacola and Escambia County jointly participate in the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) First-Time Homebuyers Program. The program is designed to assist low—and moderate-income families in obtaining affordable housing. Based on income, SHIP funds of up to $45,000 are available for down payment and closing cost assistance. The monies are offered in the form of a zero-interest deferred payment loan. Program Requirements: Applicant(s) cannot have owned a home or had ownership interest in homesteaded property in the last three years. Applicant’s total household income must be within the maximum income eligibility limits. Applicant(s) must have sufficient income and creditworthiness to qualify for primary financ...
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By Chris Dunham, The Real Estate Guy™
(Brokers Hub Realty)
When Mark and Jenna decided to buy their first home in Gilbert, Arizona, they thought the hardest part was over. They’d saved for the down payment, got pre-qualified, and found the perfect 3-bedroom home close to Jenna’s work and Mark’s favorite golf course. But what they didn’t expect was how crucial the Financing Section of the Arizona Residential Purchase Contract would be to securing that dream.Most buyers don’t read past the headlines of a contract. They trust their agent to guide them—which is why it’s so important to work with someone experienced. That financing section? It's not just boilerplate. It's your roadmap—and your safety net.Let me break it down, in plain English.Section 2: Financing – More Than Just a CheckboxIn the Arizona Residential Purchase Contract, Section 2 (Lin...
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By Kimo Stowell, REALTOR® RS-76763 - Honolulu Hawai'i
(HI Pro Realty LLC RB-21531 )
               Latest rates, based on 20 percent down, $200,000 owner-occupant mortgages. The rates and terms may vary; check with lenders for details. Rates may have changed click here to verify Wednesday, May 7, 2025  Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 5.375 1.750 5.774 30-YR Fixed 6.375 1.875 6.643 5-YR ARM 5.375 1.875 6.660 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 5.500 0.750 5.616 30-YR Fixed 6.000 2.000 6.189 5-YR ARM 5.375 2.000 6.575 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 5.375 1.875 5.803 30-YR Fixed 6.250 1.875 6.521 5-YR ARM 6.375 0.000 7.018 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 5.250 1.875 5.764 30-YR Fixed 6.250 2.000 6.589 5-YR ARM 6.375 1.500 7.067 First Hawaiian Bank808-643-...
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By Steve and Eleanor Thorne, Mortgage Loan Johnston County
(Advantage Lending, NMLS 60596)
USDA Home Loans remain a top choice for North Carolina homebuyers, especially with the 2025 income limits increasing once again! These no-down-payment loans offer lower interest rates and reduced monthly mortgage insurance compared to FHA or Conventional loans, making them an excellent option for many families.  USDA Home Loan income limits in NC, generally allow you to purchase upto a home valued at $425,000 with no down payment (depending on your other debts)… maybe more!To qualify, the home must be located in an eligible USDA area, and household income must fall below the updated limits. For most counties in NC, the new 2025 USDA income limits are: $112,450 for households of 1–4 people $148,450 for households of 5–8 people If your household has more than 8 members, the limit increase...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
As the Federal Reserve prepares to make its next rate announcement this Wednesday, you’re likely seeing bold predictions everywhere—rates will drop! No, wait, rates will spike!  But here’s the truth most won’t say out loud: when it comes to mortgage rates, predictions are for suckers.That’s not a cop-out—it’s reality.Whether you’re a homebuyer trying to time your mortgage lock or just someone watching the economy, the urge to follow expert forecasts can be strong. After all, every week there’s another “top economist” predicting what the 10-Year Treasury or mortgage rates will do next. But here’s what most people don’t realize: even the pros are wrong half the time.The Market Is Built on GuessesFinancial traders are betting billions of dollars every day trying to out-guess the market. Th...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
Last week featured a slew of releases, but the most important one as of this writing is the GDP estimates. Both the GDP and GDP deflator data have started to reverse their previous trends, raising serious concerns that the economy may be experiencing deflationary effects.This is somewhat offset by the Personal Income and Spending reports, which showed favorable numbers, as well as the Non-farm Payroll figures, which have also increased during this period.The impact of the latest tariffs and trade wars has already appeared in estimates and data releases across numerous markets. There is strong expectation that the Federal Reserve will need to respond with support to ensure market stability, chiefly by reducing interest rates. Additionally, Consumer Confidence reports have shown a consist...
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By Steve and Eleanor Thorne, Mortgage Loan Johnston County
(Advantage Lending, NMLS 60596)
One of the top reasons people continue to move to Raleigh area is because of its strong economy, growing job market, business-friendly environment, family-oriented communities, and high quality of life. The region is known for its natural beauty, access to world-class education, and vibrant lifestyle.Once a quiet capital city known mostly for government offices and college campuses, Raleigh is undergoing a dynamic transformation that’s gaining national recognition.   FHA Loans Raleigh, Cary & Apex NC are leading mortgage programs for those looking for a “starter” home in this area.For prospective homebuyers, Raleigh’s “hot spots” remain North Raleigh, the North Hills/Midtown area, and Downtown Raleigh. First-time buyers are especially drawn to the condos and walkability of downtown. Nor...
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By Rick Cordisco, Pocono Real Estate Professional
(Pocono Mountain Lakes Realty )
The DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) Program is designed to help borrowers qualify for loans based on the cash flow generated by their investment properties rather than their personal income.Here are the main points: Qualification Criteria: Borrowers qualify based on the property's income, specifically the ratio of the property's net operating income to its debt service (loan payments). Loan Types: Typically used for investment properties, including residential and commercial real estate. Benefits: Allows investors to leverage the income from their properties to secure financing, potentially enabling them to expand their portfolios. Requirements: Properties must generate sufficient income to cover loan payments, usually with a DSCR of 1.00 or higher. Flexibility: Offers more flexible ...
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By Eleanor Thorne, Advantage Lending 919-649-5058
(Equity Resources)
In most cases FHA financing is easier to get than conventional financing. So if you are likely to need FHA financing, you need to know the maximum FHA loan limits for each county in NC.  The price points change, once you cross the county line.  FHA updates these loan limits each fall across the Country.  If you are looking at homes in Wake County (for instance), and part of the subdivision is in Harnett County you could have a substantially different price point for your home.  High Point, NC is actually in four NC counties, so understanding the maximum purchase price and FHA loan limit is critical for loan approval.Why do you need to know the FHA loan limits in NC? Here are 3 good reasons:Many home buyers, especially first time home buyers in NC, use FHA financing because it has the mo...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
When it feels like the cost of just about everything is rising, it’s only natural to wonder what that means for the housing market. Some people are even questioning whether more homeowners will struggle to make their mortgage payments, ultimately leading to a wave of foreclosures. And recent data showing foreclosure filings have increased is only feeding into this fear. But don’t let that scare you.If you put the latest data into context, it’s clear there’s no reason to think this is a repeat of the last housing crash.This Isn’t Like 2008While it’s true that foreclosure filings ticked up in the latest quarterly report from ATTOM, they’re still lower than the norm – and way below levels seen during the crash. And it’s a lot easier to see if you graph that out.If you compare Q1 2025 (on t...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
While many useful indicators are set to be released this week, the previous week left us only with the Leading Economic Indicators, which showed signs of the economy slowing down in the future. Consumer Sentiment reports also indicated widespread dissatisfaction across all levels of income and education, largely due to the impacts of recent tariff decisions, which have been on hold.We should expect next week to provide a clearer picture as decisions are made in the trade war between China and the United States. The PCE Prices, Non-farm Payrolls, Chicago Manufacturing PMI, Personal Income, and GDP estimates will offer more insight into the impact of the tariffs.Concerns about inflation remain, but given the current stance on monetary policy, the Federal Reserve is much more likely not to...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWe would love to show it to you How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or managing rental properties, we’ve got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker, you’ll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Have a question about the local area, from top dining spots to job opportunities or real estate guidance? Call or text Charles at 850-476-4494, or email charles@charlesstallions.com—it’s who we “R.”Mortgage 101: Simplifying the ProcessAre you considering financing, refinancing, or just naviga...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWe would love to show it to you How Much Home Do I Qualify For  The C-Note: Your Quick Guide to All Things Real EstateWelcome to The C-Note, the go-to source for everything real estate in Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze, Florida. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or managing rental properties, we’ve got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker, you’ll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Have a question about the local area, from top dining spots to job opportunities or real estate guidance? Call or text Charles at 850-476-4494, or email charles@charlesstallions.com—it’s who we “R.”Mortgage 101: Simplifying the ProcessAre you considering financing, refinancing, or just naviga...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Before you start house hunting, make sure you’re preapproved! ✅ It shows sellers you’re serious, gives you a clear budget, and can even help you close faster. In a competitive market, having that pre-approval letter can make all the difference. Ready to start the process? I can connect you with a trusted lender! #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #finances #a042125 #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #dreamhome
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