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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 Anna Chroscicki, Realtor - St. Lucie County affordable Real Estate
(Re/Max Masterpiece Realty)
 To check out more of Homeowner and Seller’s Tips, visit my website: https://www.annasellsrealestate.com/fine/real/estate/homeownertip/custom/Homeowner-and-Real-Estate-Tips.  ANNA CHROSCICKI with RE/MAX MASTERPIECECall me at 772-485-4188 with any Real Estate Questions. Web-site:www.annasellsrealestate.com1775 SW Gatlin Blvd Ste 101, PSL, FL, 34953
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By Kimo Stowell, James "Kimo" Stowell - REALTOR®, ABR®, GREEN
(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 verifyWednesday, May 6, 2026 Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 5.000 2.000 5.390 30-YR Fixed 5.875 2.125 6.129 5-YR ARM 5.125 1.875 6.113 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 5.375 0.750 5.491 30-YR Fixed 5.750 2.000 5.937 5-YR ARM 5.125 2.000 6.060 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 5.125 2.250 5.607 30-YR Fixed 5.875 1.875 6.137 5-YR ARM 5.375 2.000 6.444 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 5.125 1.875 5.636 30-YR Fixed 5.875 2.250 6.228 5-YR ARM 5.750 1.500 6.588 First Hawaiian Bank808-643-46...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
When headlines scream that the Federal Reserve is raising or lowering rates, it's easy to assume your mortgage will be affected immediately. But here's the truth: the Fed doesn't directly control mortgage rates. And understanding the difference could help you make smarter decisions about buying, selling, or refinancing.The Federal Reserve sets the federal funds rate, which is what banks charge each other for short-term overnight loans. This rate influences things like credit cards, car loans, and home equity lines of credit. But when it comes to long-term mortgage rates, a different market holds the reins.Mortgage rates are more closely tied to the bond market, especially the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note. Investors consider factors such as inflation, economic strength, and gl...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The latest Trade Balance data has shown that despite the rigorous action involved with tariffs, it has had little impact on adjusting the trade balance amongst the US and other countries. The imbalance has gone the other direction — becoming worse — the last 3 releases alone. The unemployment data has shown to be surprisingly resilient as people are not gaining nor losing jobs on the average. Amidst the current economic events and administrative events, there has been some job scarcity in many markets but the impact has not been shown in the data. Hourly wages has also again consistently lagged behind inflation, and this release has shown that trend to remain. The next week there is scheduled inflation data from the CPI and PPI reports set to release, but they have been often delayed wi...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
A relatively light week given recent events, with the only notable releases being Consumer Sentiment and Retail Sales. Consumer Sentiment has broken its recent downtrend, ticking up slightly. However, in the face of rising gas prices and increasing costs of living, this may shift in the next release. Retail Sales have also shown a positive uptick, indicating that the economy remains resilient despite ongoing global events.Consumer SentimentUS consumer sentiment showed some improvement amid a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, but it's still at record lows, according to new data from the University of Michigan. The Index of Consumer Sentiment showed consumer sentiment ended April with a final reading of 49.8, above the 48.5 reading economists expected but marking the lowest leve...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Nothing down or nada, zilch, nil, zero down payment for a home to buy in Arizona. YES! It still exists. (image 0 by The Digital Artist, Pixabay)There are in essence, three primary methods for a buyer to consider in purchasing a home with $0 down payment3 Types of Zero Dollar Down Payments (Image Gerd Altmann, Pixabay)1. USDA Loan (US Department of Agriculture)2. Free grant programs (down payment and/or closing costs assistance)3. VA Loan (Veterans Administration)$0 Down Payment with USDA rural farm loan was available for a home like these  in n areas of Maricopa County and Pinal Counties designated for USDA loansUSDA Loan Homes For Sale UPDATED DAILY and includes NEW HOMES. View on FULL SCREEN Homes For Sale in Arizona Eligible for USDA Loan . Create your own free MLS Search portal and ...
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By Nick Marr, Promoting real estate internationally
(HOMESGOFAST)
Owning a home is often seen as a cornerstone of financial stability and personal success in the United States. It represents security, independence, and long-term investment potential. However, while the dream of homeownership is appealing, the financial realities that come with it can be overwhelming—especially for first-time buyers.Beyond the monthly mortgage payment, homeowners face a wide range of unexpected expenses and financial pressures. From maintenance costs to property taxes and fluctuating interest rates, managing a home requires careful budgeting and planning. Fortunately, many homeowners learn to adapt and develop smart strategies to stay financially secure.In this article, we explore the most common financial challenges homeowners face and practical ways to overcome them....
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the full release of all the data for PPI and CPI—albeit delayed—we now have a clearer picture that the recent wars have pushed inflation to a three-year high.The Federal Reserve has made no clear indication of its plans, but for the foreseeable future, much of the speculation points toward keeping rates at their current levels, with no plans to raise or cut them.Consumer Sentiment reports, as well as the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book, have also provided insight that conditions are slowing down, as businesses appear to be tempering activity amid the war in Iran. This should signal an overall slowdown across numerous markets.Price Producer Index (PPI)The producer-price index jumped 0.5% last month, the government said Tuesday, to mark the fourth straight big increase. Economists polle...
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By Solomon Greene, Real Estate Agent, Licensed Associate Broker
(Drake Realty, Inc.)
Manage the assessed value of your Gwinnett County Home to make ownership more affordable and to keep the property competitive when the time comes to sell.As we know, the start of Spring means that tax season is upon us, a time when many are thinking about income taxes.  But it’s also a time when Gwinnett County Homeowners with mortgages can influence their future monthly payments, specifically the tax portion, and all homeowners, including those without mortgages, can ensure their property is competitive when the time comes to sell.Occasionally, buyers I work with faced an interesting situation: two identical properties in the same area priced equally, but with different estimated mortgage payments.  Why was that?  While the estimated principal and interest payments on the mortgage to b...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Are you investing for retirement? If so, what is YOUR plan?Best Investments (image by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi from Pixabay)What is the BEST investment for retirement? Some may tell you: IRA, Stocks, Treasury Bonds, Crypto, or Mutual Funds. Wait, what is better than ALL of those. That would be a down payment on your first home. Mortgage rates declining even makes it better. It is time to build generational wealth.Read what Dave Ramsey says about Down Payment Math and Strategy for buying your first home. Read on...OK! Tell me more...(photos by Robin Higgins, Pixabay)Hint! Saving for a Down Payment to buy a home is also the BEST way to save for retirement. What gives? Seems strange, doesn't it? Save for a down payment on a home before saving for retirement. That is what financial guru Dave Ram...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  The Haney Group  |  Coldwell Banker Heritage What Buyers Should Know About FHA Loans in Ohio Expert guidance from Douglas Haney, Lisa Ackerman & Brad Shuman — helping Ohio buyers make confident, informed decisions. At The Haney Group with Coldwell Banker Heritage, our agents — Douglas Haney, Lisa Ackerman, and Brad Shuman — have guided numerous Ohio buyers through the homebuying process, including navigating FHA financing. Whether you're a first-time buyer or returning to the market, FHA loans remain one of the most powerful tools available — if you know how to use them. Browse current homes for sale across our markets and see what's possible at your price point.    What Is an FHA Loan? An FHA loan is a government-backed mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (HUD). Th...
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By Mike & Cindy Jones, Real Estate - (904) 874-0422 - Jacksonville, Fl
(Florida Homes Realty & Mortgage)
Adjustable-rate mortgages in 2026 are starting to gain attention again as buyers look for ways to manage higher interest rates. But are ARM loans a smart strategy for today’s homebuyers, or could they create financial risk down the road?If you’re thinking about buying a home in Jacksonville, Florida or anywhere in today’s market, understanding how adjustable-rate mortgages work is critical before making a decision.What Is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage?An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a home loan that begins with a fixed interest rate for a specific period of time and then adjusts periodically based on market conditions.You’ll often hear terms like:• 5/1 ARM• 7/1 ARMThis means your rate is fixed for the first 5 or 7 years and then can adjust annually after that.The appeal is simple — A...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The core CPI and PCE data have been released, leaving only the non-core CPI data delayed. Amid the Iran war, inflation has once again risen to higher levels, with most sectors seeing widespread price increases due to higher fuel and energy costs. As fuel costs rise, there is a knock-on effect across other consumer products as well. However, inflation has remained within expectations when considering the impact of the war.PCE IndexShortly before the start of the Iran war, a key measure of U.S. inflation rose at an excessive pace for the third month in a row, underscoring the latest challenge facing the Federal Reserve as it tries to squelch stubborn price pressures. The personal-consumption price index, the Fed’s preferred price gauge, rose by 0.4%, matching the forecast of economists.Co...
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By John Lake, Sarasota and Cape Cod Mortgage Ba
(Shamrock Home Loans)
It’s completely understandable to feel some frustration right now. After the progress we saw in February, the market has certainly thrown a curveball. The short answer is: it’s making the timing more challenging, but it hasn’t closed the door entirely.As of today, April 13, 2026, here is how those two factors are specifically impacting your refinance math: The "Inflation Tax" on RatesInflation is the natural enemy of mortgage bonds. When the conflict in Iran pushed oil prices toward $110 a barrel, it acted like a "tax" on everything from gas to groceries. The Impact: Because the market expects this to keep inflation "sticky," investors are demanding higher yields. This is why we’ve seen rates hover in the mid-6% range recently, rather than dropping back into the 5s. The Geopolitical "Tu...
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By Doug Jones, Mortgage Broker - NMLS 286668
(Mortgage Magic)
California state Sen. Ben Allen, D-Pacific Palisades, introduced legislation Friday that would require property insurers to give policyholders six months' notice before dropping their coverage and explain the specific reasons for doing so.Senate Bill 1301 would also prohibit insurers from nonrenewing a policy solely because a policyholder inquired about a claim, filed a claim that was not paid, or filed a claim that fell within their deductible.California policyholders face the fourth highest rate of nonrenewals in the nation, according to a 2024 congressional investigation. The state's FAIR Plan, which serves as the insurer of last resort, has seen its total exposure increase by 230% since 2022.Under the bill, policyholders would have the opportunity to make repairs or adjustments to t...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the continued delay in the CPI and PCE inflation data, this week’s headlines will focus on unemployment figures. Job reports show an increase of 178,000 workers, though this growth is unlikely to persist given the current state of the economy. Unemployment data has also shown a positive release, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous report.Since the Federal Reserve discontinued rate cuts in December, the outlook remains highly uncertain as it continues to grapple with numerous aspects of the current economic environment.Unemployment DataThe U.S. added a greater-than-expected 178,000 jobs in March and the unemployment rate fell a tick to 4.3%, signs that the labor market is holding firm even as the economy undergoes another spasm of uncertainty tied to the Iran war. The inc...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  Ohio Homebuyer Guide How Mortgage Pre-Approval Works When Buying a Home in Ohio Everything buyers in Springfield, Dayton & Columbus need to know — from documents to DTI to closing day. Talk to The Haney Group First → If you're thinking about buying a home in Springfield, Dayton, or Columbus, one of the first calls you should make is to a trusted local real estate team — and one of the second calls should be to a lender. Getting mortgage pre-approval before you start seriously shopping isn't just a smart move. In today's Ohio market, it's your entry ticket. At The Haney Group at Coldwell Banker Heritage, Doug Haney, Lisa Ackerman, and Brad Shuman work with buyers every day across Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus — and the single most common reason buyers lose homes they love is that t...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  Your Complete 2026 Guide to USDA Loans — And Why More Buyers Should Be Using Them By Douglas Haney  |  The Haney Group at Coldwell Banker Heritage Most buyers we work with have heard of FHA and conventional loans. Far fewer have heard of the loan program that could be the single most powerful tool available to a first-time — or even repeat — buyer in today's market: the USDA loan. At The Haney Group, we've helped countless families across the region achieve homeownership through programs they didn't even know existed. The USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan is one of the most underutilized, most misunderstood, and frankly, most generous mortgage programs out there. Let's fix that. What Is a USDA Loan? A USDA loan is a government-backed mortgage program administered by the U...
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By Darren Copeland, National Mortgage Broker. KC Market Expert.
(Summit Lending)
🏡 VA vs Conventional: Which One Saves You More in the Kansas City Area?If you are comparing a VA loan vs a conventional loan, the big question is pretty simple: which one actually saves you more money?For many buyers in the Kansas City area, the answer comes down to how much cash you need upfront, what your monthly payment looks like, and how long you plan to keep the home.If you are eligible for a VA loan, it often brings some major advantages to the table. But there are still situations where a conventional loan could make sense depending on your goals.Let’s break it down in a simple way.💵 1. Down Payment: How Much Cash Do You Need?This is usually the first big difference buyers notice.VA LoanWith a VA loan, eligible buyers can often purchase with zero down payment. That means you may...
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By Denise Gentile, REALTOR , Riverside County
(Coldwell Banker Associated Brokers Realty)
As a Realtor in Menifee, I get this question from buyers all the time.  Should they wait for interest rates to drop before buying a home?I talk to a lot of buyers who are waiting for interest rates to drop before they buy a home.  Many are hoping rates will fall from around 6.1% to somewhere in the 5% range before they make a move.But here’s something important to consider.On a $500,000 loan, the difference between a 6.1% interest rate and a 5.9% interest rate is only about $64 per month. That surprises a lot of people, because they expect the payment difference to be much larger.What often matters more than the interest rate is the price of the home and the competition in the market.When interest rates drop, more buyers enter the market, which can drive prices up and create multiple-of...
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