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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 Rodney Mason, VP of Mtg Lending, AL,AR,AZ,CA,CO,FL,GA,IN,MI,MS,NC,SC,TN,TX,VA,WA
(Guaranteed Rate NMLS# 2611)
Today, the Federal Housing Administration issued guidance regarding the payment of Real Estate Agent commission and forthcoming changes in the real estate industry.  This is in response to numerous inquiries received by FHA after the recent settlement proposed by the National Association of REALTORS®.    In its announcement, they stated: Since its announcement, FHA has received questions from its stakeholders regarding how the proposed settlement agreement will affect the treatment of seller-paid buyer real estate broker fees in transactions using FHA-insured mortgage financing.Under existing FHA policy, if sellers continue to pay buyer-side real estate agent commissions and fees as a manner of state and local law or custom, and if the commissions and fees are reasonable in amount, exis...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy. – Dale Carnegie.​Over 28 years in the mortgage industry and I still struggle with the same fear I had when I first started back in 1995. “Fear of making a mistake”. 😱​I don’t care how many managers, co-workers , friends and family tell me people make mistakes, there are times when I just can’t shake that fear.​But….. One thing I never do is allow that fear to stop me. I own it. I admit it and I do it scared. Procrastination is a common symptom of fear. This Wednesday…. I say do it scared! 💪🏽​#wednesdaywisdom Happy Hump Day Everyone! 🐪 🐫​❓Ask me about Monthly Mentoring​#asktheunderwriter, #nofileleftbehind, #mortgagetraining, #mortgag...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
As expected, the Fed kept rates unchanged last Wednesday. They reiterated a few things that instilled confidence in the markets. 1. Inflation is continuing to come down. The markets liked hearing this from the Fed as we were coming off the heels of a few hotter-than-expected inflation reports.2. We are at peak rates for this cycle. This leaves the Fed with the possibility of only pausing or cutting at future Fed meetings. 3. We are still on pace for 3 rate cuts for 75 bps. The Fed let the markets know this is still the plan and the markets were happy to hear that. Rates have been propelled higher in recent weeks due to the higher-than-expected inflation reports. The Fed meeting was a breath of fresh air though and allowed for rates to come down a bit. Looking ahead, the next Fed meeting...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
“The same wall that keeps out your disappointment also keeps out the sunlight of enriching experiences. So let life touch you. The next touch could be the one that turns your life around.” -Jim Rohn   In 2008, I discovered that I was relying too heavily on past experiences and letting fear or uncertainty cloud my judgment, causing me to miss out on new opportunities.   It didn't take long for me to realize my mistake, prompting me to self-correct!   Now, I actively keep my options open and welcome "different and unfamiliar" territory because I've learned that it's crucial for expanding both my business and knowledge.   Happy #MotivationalMonday!   #asktheunderwriter, #nofileleftbehind, #mortgagetraining, #mortgagebrokers, #creditunions   Dionne Bass www.asktheunderwriter.net Monthly Me...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
“The same wall that keeps out your disappointment also keeps out the sunlight of enriching experiences. So let life touch you. The next touch could be the one that turns your life around.” -Jim Rohn In 2008, I discovered that I was relying too heavily on past experiences and letting fear or uncertainty cloud my judgment, causing me to miss out on new opportunities. It didn't take long for me to realize my mistake, prompting me to self-correct! Now, I actively keep my options open and welcome "different and unfamiliar" territory because I've learned that it's crucial for expanding both my business and knowledge. Happy #MotivationalMonday! #asktheunderwriter, #nofileleftbehind, #mortgagetraining, #mortgagebrokers, #creditunions Dionne Basswww.asktheunderwriter.netMonthly Mentoring for Mor...
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
March’s meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) came and went largely as expected on Wednesday, with the policy-setting body of the Federal Reserve again keeping its anchor rate unchanged at 5.25% to 5.5%.It’s the fifth consecutive meeting that the central bank has held the benchmark rate steady at its highest level since 2001, in keeping with its well-documented “higher for longer” proclamation. Most Fed watchers aren’t expecting a rate cut until spring (Moody’s has the first decrease pegged for May, while Fannie Mae anticipates the initial reduction in June), and hotter-than-expected inflation data from the past couple of months bolstered the case for holding off on a rate-lowering cycle.The post-meeting statement issued by the FOMC reflected the ongoing holding pattern in...
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By Robin Gauthier, I have the Key to your NextHome
(NextHome Tidewater Realty)
The Assist: Don’t Miss These First-Time Homebuyer Grants and ProgramsCongratulations on deciding to step onto the homeownership court! As you gear up for this exciting journey, remember that finding the right loan is just as important as finding the perfect home. Luckily, there are plenty of grants and programs available at Southern Trust Mortgage to help you with down payments, closing costs, and other expenses associated with buying a home.  1.Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Loans:Think of FHA loans as your MVP in the game of homeownership. With their low down payment requirements and flexible eligibility criteria, they make scoring your dream home easier with as little as a 3.5% down payment.  2.Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac HomeReady and Home Possible Programs:These programs are l...
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By Dan McElfresh, Your St. Louis real estate & lifestyle guide
(St. Louis Living powered by Narrative Real Estate)
Purchasing a home is a milestone that many of us dream of, but the journey to turning that key for the first time can be filled with uncertainty and stress. That's where Emily and the team at Flat Branch Home Loans shine, transforming the daunting into the doable, the complex into the clear.The Journey to Mortgage MasteryEmily's venture into the mortgage industry was sparked by her own home-buying experience. Understanding firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions and the avalanche of questions that come with purchasing a home, she embarked on a mission: to demystify the mortgage process for others. Emily is not just any loan officer; she's a guide, a supporter, and, most importantly, a listener who knows that at the heart of every mortgage is a dream waiting to be realized.A Personal Tou...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
I grow and develop at my own pace. I give myself permission to exceed the progress of those around me. ​This is not always accepted, but it's essential for my personal growth and fulfillment.What or who is holding you back from your goals or progress? Happy Hump Day! 🐪 🐫Dionne BassMentor & Mortgage Underwriterwww.asktheunderwriter.net 
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey real estate sales
(Fathom Realty)
Great VA loan info here. Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of VA loan entitlement, including basic vs. bonus entitlement, and how they impact your down payment and maximum loan amount.   What is VA Loan Entitlement? VA loan entitlement represents the dollar amount that the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to repay to a lender in the event of default on a VA hom...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Informative post! Understanding VA loan entitlement is crucial for maximizing benefits for veterans and service members. This blog likely offers valuable insights into how VA loan entitlement works and how to make the most of it when buying a home. Thanks for shedding light on this important topic! Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into t...
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By Trish Cole
(Veterans United Home Loans of Puget Sound NMLS#1907)
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of VA loan entitlement, including basic vs. bonus entitlement, and how they impact your down payment and maximum loan amount. What is VA Loan Entitlement?VA loan entitlement represents the dollar amount that the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to repay to a lender in the event of default on a VA home loan. Essentially, it serv...
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By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 3.94%CANHOU 06/15/29 [+0.10%]   ‌ 10 Year - 4.02%CANHOU  03/15/34 [+0.10%]         * denotes interpolated rate GoC 2 Year - 4.37% CAN 11/01/25 [+0.07%]   ‌ 3 Year - 3.99% CAN 09/01/26 [+0.08%]   ‌ 5 Year - 3.62% CAN 03/01/29 [+0.10%]   ‌ 10 Year - 3.55% CAN 12/01/33 [+0.11%] GOC Bonds are for reference purposes only Floating rate insured cost of funds 5.41% [-]                   Prime Rate 7.20% [-]
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By Linda Peltz, It's The Sold That Counts
(eXp Realty)
Waiting on a home purchase can be costly for buyers due to rising property prices and interest rates. Delaying a purchase can result in paying more for the same property or facing higher mortgage payments. Additionally, waiting may mean missing out on preferred homes or desirable locations.Limited inventory affects home buyers waiting to purchase because it reduces their options, leading to increased competition for available properties. This can result in bidding wars and higher prices, making it harder for buyers to find a suitable home within their budget.In recent conversation with Michelle Johnson from Hero Loan Team, we gained valuable insights into the repercussions of delaying this crucial decision. Michelle Johnson, a seasoned expert in home loans, shed light on the financial i...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Desktop Ooooh & Ahhhh-praisals Recently, I asked this question in the ActiveRain Q & A section regarding: Under what circumstances would you order a desktop appraisal for a buyer client? Never was the majority of answers! They do have a place in this new market, if only to prove a listed property is indeed way overpriced. A desktop appraisal can be advantageous to cash buyers looking in the market when price is a key component in making an informed decision. Here are three ways to limit the risk of paying too much for a property: 1. Since an appraiser doesn't need to visit the property, desktop appraisals cost less. Of course, the amount depends on the selling area. They can be as inexpensive as $150 - $300, compared to $600 or more for a traditional appraisal. 2. Saving time is another...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
Bending beats breaking ― Betty GreeneOver the years I've learned that embracing change doesn't mean abandoning my goals; it means finding innovative ways to reach them. There are three things I do stay on the path:Stay focused - amidst the noise and distractions, I remain unwavering in pursuit of my goals.Stay determined - unfazed by negativity and competition, I recognize my unique value and persist with confidence.Flexibility - in an ever-evolving landscape, I prioritize continuous learning to adapt to changing technology and guidelines.These are daily practices I cultivate for myself and my mentees.Hopefully this helps someone push past whatever is challenging them today.  Dionne Bass - Mentor & Underwriterwww.asktheunderwriter.net 
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
According to the World Health Organization, the entire populace is rapidly aging. All countries face major challenges to ensure that their health and social systems are ready to make the most of this demographic shift. In 2050, 80% of older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries. The pace of population aging is much faster than in the past. In 2020, the number of people aged 60 years and older outnumbered children younger than 5 years. Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world's population over 60 years will nearly double from 12% to 22%. Overview People worldwide are living longer. Today most people can expect to live into their sixties and beyond. Every country in the world is experiencing growth in both the size and the proportion of older persons in the ...
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By Dionne Bass, Blog: Ask The Underwriter
(Ask The Underwriter)
Throughout the years, I've created strategies and habits to overcome various obstacles that arise.I've found that the more strategies I develop to address different issues, the smoother tasks like underwriting, training, marketing and mentoring become.❓What systems do you use to tackle the challenges of originating, processing, and marketing?❓Do they align with your needs, or are you struggling to keep up with someone else's system?#TuesdayTip: Create a daily routine that works well for both you and your family. Otherwise, you may end up consistently REACTING instead of being PROACTIVE.#asktheunderwriter, #nofileleftbehind, #mortgagetraining, #mortgagebrokers, #creditunions
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By Matt Brady, One of San Diego's Best Equity Advisors
(Watermark Capital)
Rates are coming off their best week since the most recent CPI numbers came out a month ago. Jobs were weaker than expected and the unemployment rate came in 0.2% higher (at 3.9%) than expected. Remember, we are in a "celebrate the bad news" era so the Fed can "save" us sooner. Speaking of CPI (inflation on the consumer side), we get another report this Tuesday. The markets will be weighing it heavily as it comes before the March 20th Fed meeting. I expect this report to be better simply on the fact that the market expectations are more in line with the previous month's dataset. Last time, the expectations on inflation varied too much from the previous dataset and were hard to meet/beat. We were being set up for failure. Then, Thursday brings us the PPI (inflation on the producer side)....
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