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Lending / Financial

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)
While the week had a significant absence of impactful data releases, there are still the notable U.S. retail figures numbers, as the turbulent tariff policies that have been announced have sent shockwaves across many industries. This time the U.S. retail sales have seen a significant jump as consumers try to get ahead of the tariff policies, although it is suspected that the subsequent data will show a significant curtailing of purchasing power by consumers. This restraint in the future is what has most analysts concerned about the future in addition to inflation rising as a result of the tariff policies.U.S. Retail SalesThe numbers: Retail sales in the U.S. surged 1.4% in March—the biggest increase in more than two years—as shoppers sought to buy big-ticket items such as cars before Tr...
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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 Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a vital step in the homebuying process. While many buyers rely on online calculators or their first pre-approval offer, these tools and initial approvals might not always provide the best options. If you're serious about making a smart financial decision, seeking a second opinion from a trusted mortgage officer is a step worth taking. Why a Second Opinion Matters Your first pre-approval might feel like a green light to move forward, but it's important to remember that not all lenders offer the same terms. A second opinion could uncover better interest rates, saving you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. Additionally, it might provide access to...
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I don't know about you, but I get entirely too many garbage phone calls and anything that I can do to eliminate them is welcomed! (because cursing at a computer generated voice has not been effective.)A problem in the Mortgage World is Trigger leads.  When we run a full credit report the credit bureaus sell your information and let others know you are shopping for a loan.  The calls happen almost immediately and often the perpetrators insinuate that they are calling from the organization that you authorized to run the credit: (In my case CMG)While I am all for honest people trying to make a living, it is the under handed sales tactics like I mentioned above that are misleading and should be illegal. First off: if you get calls like this, hang up and call the original person you spoke wi...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Saving for a Down Payment to buy a home is the BEST way to save for retirement. What gives? (primary photo: Piggy Bank Savings for Home by David Yonatan, Pixabay)Seems strange doesn't it? Save for a down payment on a home before saving for retirement. That is what financial guru Dave Ramsey says. Why? Well, read on...Save for down payment on a "home" before saving for retirement?Per Realtor.com on March 3, 2025 by Dina Sartore-Bodo, "As home prices rise, so do down payments, making it increasingly difficult for potential buyers to invest in real estate. While experts have suggested a multitude of ways to afford a house in the current market, financial expert Dave Ramsey proposed a radical solution to anyone trying to find the money for a down payment. His advice? Stop planning for the f...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
Last week’s inflation reports, both the CPI and PPI, came in significantly cooler than expected. However, this must be viewed in the context of the administration’s recent tariff policies. Rather than signaling a healthy reduction in inflation, the data points to signs of deflation—which can be just as damaging to the economy as high inflation. While the FOMC Minutes offered little insight regarding interest rate changes, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has made it clear that no action will be taken until more data becomes available. Finally, the latest consumer sentiment report dropped to its lowest level in three years, with inflation concerns reaching their highest point since 1981.Consumer Price IndexConsumer prices fell in March for the first time since the outbreak of the c...
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By Kathryn Acciari, Mortgage Loan Originator
(NewFed Mortgage Corp.)
This afternoon, I am co-hosting an open house with Realtor Paula O'Brien of Century 21 North East. The address:  13 Reo Rd, Maynard MA.  The open house runs from 12 - 2 PM, and many visitors are anticipated. The spring market is in full swing here in New England. The last open house that I co-hosted had 32 parties come through. Both the listing agent and the seller were grateful that I was able to be on hand to greet visitors, help with sign-in, and  answer lending questions.If you are a listing agent who would like an experienced co-host at your open houses, please contact me: kacciari@newfed.com or 508-982-0686. It is just one of the ways that I support my Realtor partners. (The property website link is also a service that I provide to my real estate partners, at no charge.)  Here's t...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
VA Allows Buyer-paid Broker Fees11/13/2024 The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issued a policy change that now allows payment to buyer brokers on VA loans. However, these fees will be subject to certain safeguards, such as requiring that all buyer-broker fees charged to veterans "must be reasonable and customary within local markets."  The circular is effective Aug. 10, 2024, and is valid until rescinded. The VA also clarified that veterans can still ask sellers to cover these fees, which will most often be negotiated in the offer to purchase agreement. As the practicality of the lawsuit settlement becomes clearer, the VA is expected to issue a permanent policy. This policy change will protect veterans in situations where there is competition for a particular property, and the...
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By LeAnne Carswell, Real estate broker in charge of large team
(Expert Real Estate Team)
Most people think of homeownership as one big expense. And I get it, between mortgage payments, maintenance, insurance, taxes… the list seems never-ending. But what often gets overlooked is the way your home can pay you back when tax season rolls around.If you're a homeowner, you may be sitting on deductions and credits that could reduce your taxable income, boost your refund, or soften the blow of what you owe. Here's how to take full advantage of that financial upside.Homeownership = Tax Write-Off OpportunitiesLet’s break down the most common tax perks homeowners may qualify for:Mortgage Interest DeductionYou can deduct interest paid on your mortgage for up to $750,000 of debt ($375,000 if married filing separately). This can be a major write-off in the early years of your mortgage wh...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
The Spring season is in full swing, and it's time to wipe away the dust and grime from winter. But this physical and mental refresh doesn't just apply to your home. Use these seven steps to clean up your finances! #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #happyhome #happyhomeowner #finances #a041025 #smartmoney #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #moneytips #springcleaning #springclean #spring
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Should you buy a home now or try and time the market and buy later if mortgage rates come down further? This is always a difficult decision especially when life is drawing you to buy a home. (Image: Freddie Mac Mortgage Rate Weekly Survey)Mortgage rates continue to tick down. How LOW CAN THEY GO?How Low Can They Go? Mortgage rates that is (Photo: Stocksnap, Pixabay)There may be a window of opportunity to own a home in the Phoenix Arizona metro now with home prices having declined somewhat while mortgage rates continue to "tick down" to 6.64% (good credit). Remember, you can marry the home of your dreams but only have to date the mortgage rate. One can date the rate by refinancing later when rates decrease. Over the past 100+ years home prices have gone up and down through the decades bu...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The previous week has seen tremendous impacts with the Trump administration's recently revealed tariff policies, sparking widespread concern about their broad economic effects. These concerns have already led to rapid contractions in multiple markets.Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, has stated he is very uncertain about any moves made by the Federal Reserve and wants to wait for additional information before making decisions.Uncertainty is at an all-time high, without much relief—even in light of positive data from previous months. Without any clear direction, there is growing speculation that inflation will only increase from here. Meanwhile, employment data has already shown a rapid increase in unemployment forecasts.U.S. Employment ReportThe U.S. added a bigger-than-ex...
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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, April 2, 2025  Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 5.250 2.125 5.706 30-YR Fixed 6.125 1.875 6.387 5-YR ARM 5.875 0.000 6.680 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 5.375 1.000 5.530 30-YR Fixed 6.000 1.750 6.165 5-YR ARM 5.375 1.750 6.551 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 5.250 2.000 5.695 30-YR Fixed 6.000 2.000 6.277 5-YR ARM 6.250 0.000 6.968 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 5.250 1.750 5.744 30-YR Fixed 6.000 2.250 6.356 5-YR ARM 6.000 1.500 6.989 First Hawaiian Bank808-64...
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By Kathy Hyatt, PA Realtor® Plantation-Davie-Sunrise, Broward Realtor Selling Plantation,Davie & Sunrise
(Remax Services)
Thinking 🤔About Refinancing 📉📈Your Mortgage?With Rates 👇Dropping in 2025, It Might Be a Good ⏰🕙Time to Explore 👀Your Options. But Before You Rush🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ to the Bank🏦🏢, There Are a Few Key Factors to Consider:⭐🏆Your Financial Goals - What are you hoping to achieve? Lower Monthly Payments? Faster Payoff? Access to Equity?🔢The Numbers - Factor in closing costs, potential prepayment penalties, and the long-term impact on your interest payments.🏡Your Equity Position - Having sufficient equity in your home can improve your chances of securing favorable refinancing terms.🎯💯Your Credit Score - A strong credit score is key to qualifying for the best interest rates.💳💵Your Debt-to-Income Ratio -Lenders assess your overall financial health, so managing your debt levels is important.It is a lot to ...
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By ReadySetLoan Team, Home Loans, Market Trends, Condo Approval Experts
(ReadySetLoan)
Will Friday’s Jobs Report Push Them Even Lower?📉 Mortgage rates just hit their lowest levels of 2025—and tariff news is the driving force behind the dip. A sharp drop in the 10-year Treasury yield followed after global markets reacted to fresh tariff headlines, prompting a major sell-off in stocks and a move into bonds. That shift brought mortgage rates down with it.At ReadySetLoan, we’ve been watching the bond market closely. In this week’s Housing Market Tracker, we pointed out that the 10-year yield was sitting stubbornly high and needed a dose of bad economic news to break lower. That forecast played out exactly as expected—and rates responded.So, where do we go from here?🐷 RSL Piggy Points Mortgage rates are now at 2025’s lowest level The 10-year Treasury yield finally broke key re...
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By ReadySetLoan Team, Home Loans, Market Trends, Condo Approval Experts
(ReadySetLoan)
 🐔 11 Million Chickens… and a Mortgage Metaphor We Can’t IgnoreIn 2024, 11 million U.S. households are now proud owners of backyard chickens. That’s a huge jump from just 5.8 million in 2018, according to the American Pet Products Association.Even U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins is ruffling feathers (in a good way), saying she wants to make it easier for families to raise their own egg-laying hens and save money on groceries.Which is great. Who doesn’t want fresh eggs, a quirky pet, and an excuse to wear overalls in the suburbs?But here’s where it gets interesting… and a little ReadySetLoan-y:🏡 Backyard Chickens and Mortgages: More Alike Than You ThinkRaising chickens is surprisingly similar to buying a home. Think about it: First, the prep work: You need a secure coop before ...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Understanding Mortgage Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval 🏠When you're gearing up to buy a home, navigating the mortgage process can feel like learning a new language. Two terms that often come up early in the journey are pre-qualification and pre-approval. While they sound similar, they serve different purposes and carry varying levels of weight in the home-buying process. Pre-Qualification: Testing the Waters 🌊Think of pre-qualification as dipping your toes into the mortgage waters. It’s a preliminary assessment conducted by a lender based on information you provide about your income, assets, debts, and credit score. This process gives you an estimate of how much you might be able to borrow. It’s quick and usually doesn’t require documentation verification. Essentially, it helps you u...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the introduction of tariffs on Tuesday, there is significant uncertainty across all sectors regarding the potential outcome. While important data releases—including the PCE Index, Personal Income & Spending, and Consumer Sentiment for the quarter—have taken place, their impact is expected to be largely overshadowed by apprehension surrounding the widespread tariff decisions.With the upcoming release of inflation reports, including the CPI and PPI this week, all eyes will be on these two key metrics. The focus remains on tariffs and their impact on the markets, as well as inflation, which is likely to be influenced by the new tariff policies.PCI IndexA separate measure of prices known as the core rate rose a sharper 0.4% in February, a tick above Wall Street's forecast. The increase...
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By Manfred Lewis Leslie Horne & Associates, Realtor Spartanburg and Greenville SC
(Leslie Horne &Associates )
Ready to stand out in a competitive market? 🌟 Working with pre-approved buyers makes the home search smoother and more successful. It shows sellers you're serious and ready to make a move! 🏡 If you're thinking of buying, let's connect — I can help guide you every step of the way. #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #newhome #househunting #a033125 #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #dreamhome
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
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 navigating the mortgage landscape? Charles Stallions is here to demystify the process. Whether you n...
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By Rodney Mason, VP of Mtg Lending, AL,AR,AZ,CA,CO,FL,GA,IN,MI,MS,NC,NV,SC,TN,TX,VA,WA
(Rate, Inc NMLS# 2611)
FHA Policy Change – Major Impact on Non-Permanent Residents  On Wednesday March 26, 2025, HUD issued Mortgagee Letter 25-09 announcing that Non-Permanent Resident Aliens will no longer be eligible for FHA financing. The change applies to any type of VISA (including DACA or H1-B) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card holder. The change will be effective with FHA Case Numbers issued on or after May 25, 2025. Any Non-Permanent Resident Alien using FHA financing will need to be under contract a few days before this May 25th deadline. On or after May 25th, only Borrowers that are a US Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien (Green Card) will be eligible for an FHA mortgage moving forward.  Who’s Impacted? If you are a Non-Permanent Resident Alien with an acceptable VISA, you will no l...
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