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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 Ebonie Beaco, Mortgage Strategist & Loan Officer
(Home Loans Network Powered By Loan Factory)
Why Pre Approval Letters Are Still Winning Offers Right Now?Mortgage pre approval letters have taken on increased importance as affordability margins have tightened and transactions have become more sensitive to risk. Rather than weakening a buyer’s position, higher rates have shifted attention toward certainty, structure, and preparation. Realtors are no longer just presenting offers; they are protecting their clients’ transactions from unnecessary fallout. A strong pre approval gives agents confidence that the buyer can execute on the contract they are writing. This confidence matters because realtors invest time, reputation, and resources into every deal they submit. When financing is solid, agents can advocate for their buyers more effectively. Strong pre approvals have become a fou...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The trade deficit dropped significantly this month, resulting in the smallest gap in the last 16 years. This has been entirely driven by the ongoing gold rush and, to a much less impactful degree, businesses working their way around high tariffs. The unemployment reports, however, have shed another light, showing a steady trend of unemployment rising and reaching a four-year high as of last week.This is somewhat offset by consumer sentiment, which showed a slightly positive increase alongside relative improvements in the economy. All in all, the data points to mixed results for the broader market. The upcoming week will be a much greater indicator, with all major inflation reports in the PPI and CPI scheduled for release.Trade DeficitThe U.S. trade deficit plummeted 39% in October to re...
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By Ebonie Beaco, Mortgage Strategist & Loan Officer
(Home Loans Network Powered By Loan Factory)
How Buyers Are Qualifying for Homes?Mortgage qualification looks very different from what many buyers remember and even different from what some agents expect. While interest rates and home prices often dominate conversations, lenders are primarily focused on borrower stability, documentation quality, and overall financial structure. Approval is no longer about meeting one benchmark but about demonstrating consistency and financial responsibility over time. Buyers who understand this process tend to move forward with greater confidence. Those who rely on outdated assumptions often encounter avoidable delays. Education and preparation play a significant role in successful mortgage approvals.Buyers who understand how qualification works usually receive stronger pre approvals and experienc...
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Good post by today, and worthy of our daily Re-Blog.BillGILBERT ARIZONA HOMES FOR SALE, Bill Salvatore, AZVHV / HelpingArizona Heroes, New-Construction Advantage, Realtor, sell my house, 2026Market, Chandler On Thursday afternoon with less than an hour left to trade, Trump announced he would be directing his representatives to buy $200bln in mortgage-backed securities (MBS). No matter what one's personal opinions may be regarding bold announcements from the President, this one is definitely serious. How do we know?  First off, if you don't want to apply any critical thought to the matter, simply consider that the MBS market reacted immediately and forcefully.  In other words, traders have done the mental heavy lifting for you. They wouldn't have been moving billions of dollars of MBS at...
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By Doug Jones, Mortgage Broker - NMLS 286668
(Mortgage Magic)
On Thursday afternoon with less than an hour left to trade, Trump announced he would be directing his representatives to buy $200bln in mortgage-backed securities (MBS). No matter what one's personal opinions may be regarding bold announcements from the President, this one is definitely serious.How do we know? First off, if you don't want to apply any critical thought to the matter, simply consider that the MBS market reacted immediately and forcefully.  In other words, traders have done the mental heavy lifting for you. They wouldn't have been moving billions of dollars of MBS at a time of day typically reserved for playing Angry Birds on the train back to the burbs.Those who want to dig a bit deeper can do just a little bit of math. Trump said "$200bln." Incidentally, as of the most r...
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By Joe Metzler, Sr Loan Officer
(Cambria Mortgage)
STOP GUESSING About Refinancing! Your Personal “Should I Refinance” Answer Is HereYou’re searching for a simple rule to answer one of the biggest financial questions a homeowner can ask: "Should I refinance right now?"Forget the vague, one-size-fits-all advice. Your loan size is the real game-changer, and with rates moving in your favor, this window of opportunity won’t stay open forever. This isn’t just about chasing a lower percentage—it’s about real money hitting your bank account every single month.See what a 1% rate drop puts back in your pocket:$250,000 loan: ~$155/month → $1,860 per year$400,000 loan: ~$247/month → $2,964 per year$500,000 loan: ~$309/month → $3,708 per year$600,000 loan: ~$371/month → $4,452 per yearYour 60-Second Refinance Rule:Stop waiting for a “magic number.”...
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By Tom Gilliam | RE/MAX Classic, Exceeding Your Expectations
(RE/MAX Classic)
More than one in eight American homeowners have faced serious mortgage trouble in the past decade, causing stress for families across Oakland County, Michigan. If foreclosure feels inevitable, a deed in lieu offers an alternative path that can protect your financial future and preserve peace of mind. Understanding your options empowers you to make decisions with confidence, backed by professionals who know the unique challenges of the Michigan real estate market.Table of Contents What Is a Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure How the Deed in Lieu Process Works Eligibility and Key Requirements in Michigan Financial, Legal, and Tax Implications Deed in Lieu vs. Short Sale and Foreclosure Key Takeaways Point Details Deed in Lieu Benefits Homeowners may avoid the full foreclosure process, reduce lon...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the only notable item on the schedule being the release of the Federal Reserve minutes, which reflect the current stance of the Fed, virtually nothing has changed since the last rate cut. The Federal Reserve is expected to continue its wait-and-see approach.Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.06% with the current rate at 5.44% 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.03% with the current rate at 6.15% MND Rate Index 30-Yr FHA rates saw no change for this week. Current rates at 5.85% 30-Yr VA rates saw no change for this week. Current rates at 5.87% Jobless ClaimsNo release of data due to the holidays.What’s AheadThe upcoming week will feature the usual data releases, with the major ones being the Trade Deficit, Consumer Credit, and Consumer Sentime...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Finding your car keys may be hard, but finding the right mortgage does not "have to be"; we will find the right mortgage for you. Call/text "mortgage" to 850-476-4494. How Much Home Do I Qualify For Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWhat IS My Home Worth?  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 owning rental properties, we have got you covered. With Charles Stallions as your trusted real estate broker since 1995, you’ll find expert advice and actionable insights to help you make confident decisions.Do you have a question about the local area, from top dining spots to job opportunities or real estate guidance? Call or te...
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By Kimo Stowell, REALTOR®, GREEN - 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, December 31, 2025  Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 4.875 2.125 5.322 30-YR Fixed 5.625 2.375 5.924 5-YR ARM 4.875 2.125 6.114 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 5.125 0.750 5.240 30-YR Fixed 5.500 2.000 5.684 5-YR ARM 4.750 2.000 5.961 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 4.875 2.125 5.408 30-YR Fixed 5.625 2.250 5.964 5-YR ARM 5.625 0.000 6.427 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 4.875 1.750 5.360 30-YR Fixed 5.625 2.125 5.959 5-YR ARM 5.375 1.500 6.364 First Hawaiian Bank80...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
Buying property that doesn't exist yet sounds risky on paper, but it's become one of the most common ways people enter Dubai's real estate market. The appeal is obvious - lower prices, flexible payment plans, and the chance to own something brand new. But here's what most marketing brochures don't tell you: the journey from signing that initial paperwork to getting your keys can take anywhere from 18 months to four years, and the path isn't always straightforward.Understanding the actual timeline helps set realistic expectations. This isn't about scaring anyone off, plenty of people have excellent experiences with off-plan purchases. It's about knowing what you're signing up for and being prepared for the stages ahead.The First 30 Days: Reservation to ContractThe process moves fast at t...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
You Need a 20% Down Payment — Pensacola Edition.One of the biggest myths I hear from buyers across Pensacola, Pace, and Gulf Breeze is the belief that you must have a 20% down payment to purchase a home. This misconception keeps far too many people on the sidelines, leading them to assume homeownership is out of reach when it’s actually closer than they think.The truth is, today’s buyers have far more flexible options. VA and USDA loans offer zero‑down opportunities for qualified buyers—something especially valuable here along the Gulf Coast, where many military families and rural‑area buyers benefit from these programs. Beyond that, Florida offers state-specific grants and down‑payment assistance designed to help first-time buyers step confidently into homeownership.According to the Na...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
A nice Christmas present? Buy a home with a $0 (zero) down payment. Here are Homes For Sale in Arizona Eligible for USDA Loan. Other homes are available through other methods, read on...Zero Down Payment, Image by Gerd Altmann from PixabayThere are in essence, three primary methods for a buyer to consider in purchasing a home with $0 down payment1. 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 ow...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The Consumer Price Index was scheduled to be released this week but has once again been delayed, with no explanation provided. This left the unemployment data as the only notable economic release from last week. The data showed that unemployment numbers came in higher than expected; however, this result is somewhat tempered by the fact that the figures are supported by a more limited data set.Even so, it is not a positive sign that unemployment numbers are exceeding expectations under these circumstances. At this time, there is still no word on when the Consumer Price Index will be released, with the Christmas holiday fast approaching.Unemployment ReportUnemployment rate climbs to 4-year high of 4.6%, November jobs report shows. The economy lost 105,000 jobs in October and added 64,000 ...
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By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Mortgage rates inched lower this week on December 18, 2025 to 6.21% for 30 years down from 6.72% at this time last year.  (Weekly National Survey): Freddie Mac Mortgage Rate Weekly SurveyMortgage 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 6.21% (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 but the overall trend is up....WAY UP! As your parents...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
We❤️ Love OUR Seniors!Eleven Pipers Piping Seniors: Holiday traditions—recipes, storytelling, decorating, music, faith services, volunteering, card exchanges, photo albums, gift-giving, community events, gratitude rituals. Buyers: Negotiation tips—know comps, stay calm, prioritize needs, offer clean terms, use contingencies, ask for credits, time offers, lean on agent, avoid lowballing, build rapport, be flexible. Sellers: Market-ready signs—clean, staged, priced right, good photos, repairs completed, strong curb appeal, disclosures ready, flexible showings, agent engaged, marketing plan set, paperwork organized. Investors: Resources—local REI groups, podcasts, books, mentors, forums, property managers, contractors, lenders, accountants, attorneys, market reports. Search MLS  For Your N...
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By Jerry Thomas-Construction Loans, Construction Loans in MI, OH, PA, CO VA, GA and FL
(Cranbrook Loans)
Why? The short answer is that most lenders that offer OTC (One Time Close) Construction Loans will immediately reject your application if you do. The longer answer involves tracking who has worked on the project, who has provided materials, and can you document if they have been paid or not.  If someone works on your project, or provides materials, and they are not paid they can put a Workman’s Lien on your project. Liens on property have priorities and Workman’s Liens will most likely take precedence over any other kind of lien. Most importantly they will supersede a mortgage lien, the lien your lender is counting on to be the first and only lien. If a lien like this pops up during construction, the lender will freeze any draws until it is removed.  If you have started construction and...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
What can we all learn from each other.  Some may be pro's and other are con's  Debe Maxwell came up with a interesting blog that she blog on Dec 16.  Catch it if you missed it. Biweekly Mortgage Plans: What They Promise… and What You Really Need to Know If you’ve ever opened an email promising to save you thousands on your 30-year mortgage—without refinancing, points, or paperwork—you’re not alone. These biweekly mortgage ads show up everywhere, and while the claims sound exciting, there’s always more to the story. Most of these offers don’t come from actual mortgage lenders. They come from third-party companies that package the concept with lots of flashy selling points: No closing costs! No refinancing! No points! No credit check! No appraisal! Save thousands! Cut years off your mortg...
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By Renee Hahn, Top Real Estate Agent Serving Naples Florida Area
(Renee Hahn, Your Naples Real Estate Expert (Alfred Robbins Realty Group))
When you sell a home or an investment property, the IRS may want a piece of your profit - and that’s called capital gains tax. In 2025, the rules around these taxes didn’t change dramatically, but there are a few important updates that might affect how much you owe when you sell. Whether you’re a homeowner selling a primary residence, someone with a rental property, or just curious how taxes impact real estate profits - this guide breaks it down in simple terms.First, What Are Capital Gains?Capital gains are the profits you make when you sell an asset - like a house or a piece of land - for more than you paid for it. Short-term capital gains happen if you sell the property within one year of owning it. These are taxed like regular income, which can be a higher tax rate. Long-term capita...
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Biweekly Mortgage Plans: What They Promise… and What You Really Need to KnowIf you’ve ever opened an email promising to save you thousands on your 30-year mortgage—without refinancing, points, or paperwork—you’re not alone. These biweekly mortgage ads show up everywhere, and while the claims sound exciting, there’s always more to the story.Most of these offers don’t come from actual mortgage lenders. They come from third-party companies that package the concept with lots of flashy selling points: No closing costs! No refinancing! No points! No credit check! No appraisal! Save thousands! Cut years off your mortgage! And technically, they’re not lying. They’re simply charging you for something you can easily do yourself—for free.How Biweekly Payments Actually WorkA standard mortgage requi...
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