Dora Griffin's Blog

Vantage 4.0  Credit Scoring For Conventional Loans Homebuyers just got a powerful new advantage in mortgage qualifying. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now allow lenders to use either the new VantageScore 4.0 or the traditional tri‑merge credit report when underwriting conventional loans, and many len...

What does oil have to do with long term mortgages?It seems like we've been waiting a few years to see long term interest rates go down.  Just when it looked like there may be a light at the end of the tunnel, a war with Iran has caused quite a shakeup with oil prices. What does oil have to do wit...

LOYAL TO YOUR BANK Even for your home mortgage? Being a mortgage broker, sometimes I talk to a home owner or home buyer who feels like they should work with their bank on a home mortgage.  Usually the reason is, well they have all my stuff, so it is regarded as convenient. I understand how one ma...

HOME REFINANCING - It's about your options Home refinancing isn't just about the rate - it is about options.   When homeowners hear the word refinancing, they think one thing - a lower interest rate.While this can be a part of the picture, it is not the whole reality.  Refinancing is less about c...

50 YEAR MORTGAGE FACTS 50 Year Mortgages:  According to a recent Forbes report, the Trump administration says it's exploring the possibility of 50 year mortgages as a part of a plan to make monthly housing payments more affordable. It's an eye catching headline - a mortgage that could stretch acr...

That 30 Year Mortgage Interest Rate Seeing on the internet "the average 30 year mortgage rate has dropped the last four weeks reaching 6.17%"  I asked AI what are the costs of that rate.  Here's the reply: The 6.17% rate is a typical market rate as of today, October 31, 2025, and you would be res...

Why Mortgage Rates Move: What Every Homebuyer Should Know Mortgage rates are holding near 10-month lows—but don’t assume they’ll stay there. Learn why rates move, what drives them, and what smart buyers and homeowners should do next.  Mortgage rates have been making headlines lately—especially af...

2025 Bank Deregulation: A Balancing Act Between Opportunity and Risk2025 looks to be a pivotal year for the banking industry, with a renewed focus on deregulation in the United States under a new administration. This shift promises both potential benefits and significant challenges for financial ...

Why a Home Inspection Is a Must for HomebuyersLearn why a home inspection is essential for buyers—even in a competitive market. Discover how it protects your investment and helps avoid costly surprises. In a competitive housing market, many buyers are looking for ways to make their offers more ap...

Selling Your Home? What You Need to Know About Capital Gains Taxes Learn how capital gains taxes work when selling your home and how to reduce what you owe. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice. Mar 12, 2025 If you’re planning to sell your home, you may have heard about capital gai...