NEWS & INSIGHTS

A $2,015 Difference in Monthly Payments Deserves a Conversation A $2,015 difference in monthly payments deserves a conversation before a buyer walks away. Here's a real scenario I'm seeing: $1.5M home purchase 40% down → $900,000 loan amount Option A: 30-year fixed at 7.25% → ~$6,140/month principal & interest Option B: First-lien HELOC at 5.50% (interest-only) → ~$4,125/month That's a $2,015/month difference. The HELOC isn't for everyone — it's variable, interest-only, and r

What Rates Are My Clients Actually Closing At? What rates are my clients actually closing at? I reviewed the loans I personally closed in 2026 so far including QM and Non-QM loans. These two charts show the note rate distribution: Primary residences and second homes: • Average rate: 6.163% • Range: 4.875%–7.125% Investment properties: • Average rate: 6.448% • Range: 5.5%–7% Behind every rate is a different borrower, property, and financing strategy. When I work with a client,

Why APR Alone Is a Poor Way to Compare Mortgages "Just choose the lowest APR." If only mortgage shopping were that simple. APR includes the interest rate and certain financing charges. But it does not know your plans to sell, refinance, or make extra principal payments. You may be planning a three-year relationship with the mortgage. APR is doing the math for a 30-year marriage. Lender credits can also muddy the comparison. One lender charges you $600 for an appraisal. Anothe

Vera Chang GMCC District Manager If you plan to purchase a new primary residence and rent out your current home, Fannie Mae’s updated guideline may affect how much you can qualify for. Effective for applications dated November 1, 2026, or later, with earlier adoption permitted, here are the key changes: 1. Lease agreements can no longer be used to determine qualifying rental income from a departing residence. While this may simplify the documentation process, the qualifying c