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Mortgage / Finance

Anybody that's hung around the ActiveRain “water cooler” for any length of time understands the value of the relationships built on the site. AR is so much more than a social networking site, however.


It's also the place to get up-to-the-minute information on topics that affect your clients. Ask yourself: what's the most confusing aspect of buying a home for the real estate consumer? The answer is most likely financing the purchase. Credit scores and how they affect the mortgage rate, types of loan products, points, fees – whew! -- there's a lot to know about mortgages.


To serve your clients effectively you need to know about this stuff and keep abreast of changes in the mortgage industry. Thankfully, ActiveRain is not only popular with real estate agents and brokers but with finance professionals as well.


Whether you're an agent trying to figure out what the Fed's latest move means to your clients or a mortgage pro who needs input on how to build relationships with real estate agents, ActiveRain is the place to tap into a wealth of knowledge.

Recent blogs on Mortgage / Finance
By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 3.09% CANHOU 06/15/30 [-0.16%]     10 Year - 3.47%* Est. CANHOU 03/15/35 [-0.16%]     Floating Rate insured cost of funds 4.26% [-]     Prime Rate 5.95% [-]     GoC 2 Year - 2.87% CAN 09/01/27 [-0.12%]     3 Year - 2.86% CAN 09/01/28 [-0.10%]     5 Year - 2.86% CAN 09/01/29 [-0.11%]     10 Year - 3.02% CAN 06/01/34 [-0.09%]     GOC Bonds are for reference purposes only * denotes interpolated rate  
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By Peter Kici EA, Enrolled Agent
(Tax Debt Relief Group)
When you're facing the IRS, having professional representation isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity. You want someone who understands the complexities of tax laws and can advocate for your rights, helping you navigate audits or negotiations with ease. A knowledgeable representative can strategize to minimize your liabilities and maximize deductions, ultimately protecting your financial future. But what happens if you choose to go it alone? The potential pitfalls could be more significant than you think, and understanding those risks might just change your perspective.Understanding IRS ComplexitiesNavigating the complexities of the IRS can be daunting, but you don't have to face it alone my name is Peter Kici Enrolled Agent. We understanding tax codes and your filing requirements and th...
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By Peter Kici EA, Enrolled Agent
(Tax Debt Relief Group)
If you're facing a federal tax lien, you might feel overwhelmed, but subordination can be a strategic move to regain control. Start by collecting all your documents, including your lien notice and financial statements. Then, reach out to the IRS office that issued the lien to discuss your options. By completing Form 14134 and submitting it with the right paperwork, this is where we can help get the issue resolved. What do you need to know about the review process and potential pitfalls? Let's explore those crucial details together.Key Takeaways Gather relevant documents, including the lien notice and financial statements, before starting the subordination process. Contact the IRS office that issued the lien to discuss your situation and gather necessary information. Complete Form 14134,...
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By Doug Dawes, Your Personal Realtor®
(Keller Williams Evolution - 447 Boston Street, Suite #5, Topsfield, MA)
Americans view homeownership as an integral component of the American Dream. Many have a sense that they are being left out because of the rise in prices and interest rates. Many first-time buyers are unaware of existing Down Payment Assistance Programs for which they may qualify. So how do you find out about these programs? Talk to your local professional Realtor® and your lender. They will be aware of all the down payment assistance you may qualify for. Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown ...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
HUD is coming through againLow-Cost AreaThe FHA national low-cost area mortgage limits, which are set at 65 percent of the national conforming limit of $806,500 for a one-unit Property, are, by property unit number, as follows:• One-unit: $524,225• Two-unit: $671,200 • Three-unit: $811,275• Four-unit: $1,008,300High-Cost AreaThe FHA national high-cost area mortgage limits, which are set at 150 percent of the national conforming limit of $806,500 for a one-unit Property, are, by property unit number, as follows:• One-unit: $1,209,750• Two-unit: $1,548,975• Three-unit: $1,872,225• Four-unit: $2,326,875  @everyone#crosscountrymortgage, #guildMortgage, #MovementMortgage
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By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 3.19% CANHOU 12/15/29 [-0.08%]     10 Year - 3.62%* Est. CANHOU 03/15/35 [-0.07%]     Floating Rate insured cost of funds 4.50% [-]     Prime Rate 5.95% [-]     GoC 2 Year - 3.02% CAN 09/01/27 [-0.08%]     3 Year - 3.00% CAN 09/01/28 [-0.07%]     5 Year - 3.00% CAN 09/01/29 [-0.08%]     10 Year - 3.15% CAN 06/01/34 [-0.07%]     GOC Bonds are for reference purposes only * denotes interpolated rate
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced 2025 Conforming Loan Limits for all conventional loans delivered to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. What is the 2025 Conforming Loan Limit? The baseline loan amount for 2025 is as follows: 1-unit Property – $806,500 2-unit Property – $1,032,650 3-unit Property – $1,248,150 4 unit Property – $1,551,250 Note that the 2024 baseline loan limit for a 1-unit property was $766,550. Single-family homes, Condominiums, and Townhomes are considered 1-unit properties. The baseline loan amount means that every county in the country will have a minimum of this loan limit. Some designated high-cost counties will have 2025 loan limits higher than the baseline loan amounts. 2025 High-Balance Loan Limits The highest high-balance loan amount for 2025 is as ...
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By Matt Brady, San Diego's Equity Advisor
(Watermark Capital)
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced 2025 Conforming Loan Limits for all conventional loans delivered to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.What is the 2025 Conforming Loan Limit?The baseline loan amount for 2025 is as follows: 1-unit Property – $806,500 2-unit Property – $1,032,650 3-unit Property – $1,248,150 4 unit Property – $1,551,250 Note that the 2024 baseline loan limit for a 1-unit property was $766,550. Single-family homes, Condominiums, and Townhomes are considered 1-unit properties.The baseline loan amount means that every county in the country will have a minimum of this loan limit. Some designated high-cost counties will have 2025 loan limits higher than the baseline loan amounts.2025 High-Balance Loan LimitsThe highest high-balance loan amount for 2025 is as follow...
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By Lynn B. Friedman CRS Atlanta, GA 404-617-6375, Concierge Service for Our Atlanta Sellers & Buyers
(Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty - Love our Great City - Love our Clients! Buckhead - Midtown - Westside)
Atlanta Buckhead Midtown- BOI REPORT Due 12/31/24 - BUT WHAT IS BOI?  Short answer? Beneficial Ownership Information is a reporting requirement for corporations, limited liability companies, and other similar entities formed or registered to do business in the United States. Warning: many acronyms ahead.EDIT: Non-reporting entities -  sole proprietorships and general partnerships - do not need to file a BOI Report.  Fred Griffin Florida Real Estate Individuals, such as real estate professionals, who are owners of an LLC, LP, LLP, Corporation or other business entity created by filing documents with the Secretary of State where founded or with a Native American tribe must identify themselves one time via this new reporting rule which went into effect on January 1, 2024.    (Click above f...
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By Matt Brady, San Diego's Equity Advisor
(Watermark Capital)
It's too early to get too far ahead of ourselves, but so far the mortgage rate market is improving dramatically in the last 72 hours. Stay tuned. This may help a lot of people. I wanted to share some insights on how election years can impact personal finances, as it's an important consideration for many. Here are a few key areas to keep in mind: Market Volatility and Investment Portfolios Election years often bring stock market volatility due to potential policy changes. Short-term market reactions can affect retirement accounts, IRAs, and 401(k)s. Long-term policies on taxation and interest rates can shape market trajectories. Interest Rates and Borrowing Costs Presidential administrations influence the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rates. Changes in interest rates impact home...
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By John Lake, Sarasota and Cape Cod Mortgage Ba
(Shamrock Home Loans)
The election results are in, and we have a new President-elect. Many of you have reached out, wondering what this means for mortgage rates. I recognize that any time there is an administration change, it will naturally bring market anxiety due to uncertainty of the future. While campaigns on both sides are filled with statements and strategies, moments of political transitions like this remind us of our shared responsibility to remain adaptable and focused. Historically, Presidents have understood the importance of accessible interest rates for consumers, and many experts believe that once the initial market reactions settle, we’ll see more stable conditions. It’s essential to remember that while Presidents don’t directly set mortgage rates, the economic policies of an administration ca...
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By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 3.18% CANHOU 12/15/29 [-0.08%]     10 Year - 3.60% CANHOU 12/15/34 [-0.07%]     Floating Rate insured cost of funds 4.71% [-]     Prime Rate 5.95% [-]     GoC 2 Year - 2.95% CAN 09/01/27 [-0.07%]     3 Year - 2.96% CAN 09/01/28 [-0.07%]     5 Year - 2.98% CAN 09/01/29 [-0.07%]     10 Year - 3.19% CAN 06/01/34 [-0.07%]     GOC Bonds are for reference purposes only * denotes interpolated rate
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By John Lake, Sarasota and Cape Cod Mortgage Ba
(Shamrock Home Loans)
What happened to the low rates we were supposed to get???FEDERAL RESERVE CUTS RATES BY A HALF POINT!September 18th 2024Mortgages continue to bleed red ink on this Halloween day What’s going on? The Fed cuts rates by a half a point, mortgage rates party for about 2 weeks then crash! We have seen rates go up over a full point in the last 2 weeks. I WANT NAMES! WHO’S TO BLAME!The answer is inflation, jobs and the consumer! Inflation and the ConsumerTREAT: Based on the data the economy is strong!  3rd Quarter GDP was reported higher than expected. Consumer confidence is strong. The Consumer keeps spending. TRICK: Credit card debt is near all time highs. Personal savings is near all time lows. We have given back all we saved and charged all we’ve paid off since COVID. That bill will come due...
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By Kathy Hyatt ~Plantation, Davie, Sunrise REALTOR, Broward Realtor Selling Plantation,Davie & Sunrise
(Remax Services)
Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your MortgageWith home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don’t let that deter you: If other homebuyers’ experiences are any indication, odds are you’ll eventually find a home loan that works well for you. In fact, most U.S. homeowners say they’re satisfied with the mortgage they received, according to a recent Bankrate survey. The vast majority of the surveyed homeowners (69%) said they’d buy their current home again if they had a do-over.1 The key to finding the right home loan for you is to look for one that you’ll feel comfortable with long after you’ve closed on your new property. In addition to comparing term lengths and mortgage rates, also consider how ...
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By Peter Kici EA, Enrolled Agent
(Tax Debt Relief Group)
When you think about your financial life, you likely don’t imagine the IRS and your state government working together. But here’s the truth: they're sharing information, and if you’re not paying attention, this connection could have serious consequences for your wallet.Here’s how it works: the IRS and state tax authorities exchange details on taxpayers in a mutual effort to catch errors, find fraud, and make sure everyone is paying their fair share. If you don’t report income on your federal tax return, it doesn’t just stay between you and the IRS. State tax agencies will know about it too. And vice versa: any misstep on your state tax return can flag issues that lead to a closer look at your federal return.Now, you might be thinking, “That’s only a problem for people who aren’t followi...
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By Anne Edwards Johnson, Austin Realtor | HookemhomesATX (512)917-5260
(All City Real Estate)
CAUSE AND EFFECT SYNDROME  📉 New Jobless Claims: Initial claims unexpectedly fell, while continuing claims reached a 3-year high due to storms and the Boeing strike. 🔗 Effect: Labor market shifts could lower long-term yields, potentially easing mortgage rates if job growth slows. 🏠 Homebuyer Hesitancy: Buyer uncertainty around mortgage rates has pushed existing home sales to a nearly 14-year low. 🔗 Effect: High rates and buyer caution are slowing sales, but any rate relief could bring more buyers back into the market. 📊 Upcoming Jobs Report: October job growth is forecasted to slow, with 110,000 new jobs expected vs. 254,000 in September. 🔗 Effect: A weaker report might cool mortgage rates, though pre-election volatility could still influence them. 💸 Interest Rate Cuts: The Fed is likel...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Saving up thousands of dollars for a down payment on top of paying for rent may feel like a daunting task, but chatting with an experienced real estate professional is a great way to figure out what you need to do to get homeownership-ready. You may be closer than you think!#realestate #realestateagent #fhm1021 #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #financehub #homeowner
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By John Meussner, #MortgageMadeEasy Fair Oaks, CA 484-680-4852
(Catalyst Mortgage)
Queue the scene in Adam Sandler's "Billy Madison", when adult Billy paces back and forth waiting for the school bus singing "back to school...back to school....". After 9 years building a career and entering the corporate mortgage world with Mason-McDuffie mortgage, this week, I made the jump to a new company - Catalyst Mortgage, based corporately in Roseville, CA, joining in the role of Executive VP of Production.  My primary role with Catalyst will be managing our sales teams and fine tuning our loan processes, working closely with loan officers, operations staff, and vendors, to maintain the best mortgage process in the business.   A lot of the work mirrors much of the work I did with MasonMac, so why the change? For me, opportunity - Catalyst is a much smaller company, which to me m...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
So what are the pros and cons of paying off a low mortgage rate loan early?Photo: Pros and Cons by Robin Higgins, PixabayPer, Julie Taylor, REALTOR.COM, October 14, 2024, "Practically every homeowner fantasizes about the day their house is finally paid off, and they can kiss those mortgage payments goodbye.However, a whopping 56.2% of Americans have an outstanding mortgage with a rate of 4% or lower.When your mortgage rate is so low, does it make more sense to pay off your house early or invest that money?We asked financial experts about the matter.Pros of paying off the houseHaving a low-interest mortgage is a badge of honor for some people, especially after the way rates have so dramatically fluctuated over the past few years. But even if you have a mortgage rate low enough to give yo...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
We know all too well that taxes are unavoidable. But you can avoid expenses that stem from your own home-related tax mistakes. Those oversights can cost you money and lead to a contact from the IRS, say the tax pros. And no one wants either of those outcomes. As you prepare your tax returns for 2024 for 2023 income, be careful not to make any of these eight common tax mistakes, especially regarding the property tax deduction or the mortgage interest deduction.  #1 Deducting the Wrong Year for Property Taxes Unless you're one of the relatively few taxpayers on the accrual instead of the cash basis, you take a tax deduction for property taxes in the year you (or the holder of your escrow account) paid them. Some taxing authorities work a year behind. You’re not billed for this year's pro...
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