The PCE Index has aligned with expectations, and as the Federal Reserve's preferred measure of inflation, it eases the sense of urgency for policy action. GDP data has also indicated continued economic growth, though this is tempered by future forecasts predicting a potential economic contraction. This outlook is further reflected in the Consumer Confidence report, which has shown a significant decline since the change in administration. Uncertainty is evident across lending and broader markets, affecting all aspects of the economy.
How the Purchase and Refinance Mortgage Process Works
When it comes to home financing, purchasing and refinancing a mortgage share similarities but serve distinct purposes. Understanding how each process works can help you make informed decisions about homeownership and financial planning.
The Key Details About Home Appraisals That You Might Not Know
A home appraisal is a critical step in the buying, selling, or refinancing process, yet many people don't fully understand how it works or what factors influence it. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or homeowner looking to refinance, here are some key details about home appraisals that you might not know.
Creative Ways to Use Home Equity Loans for Investment
For homeowners looking to build wealth, a home equity loan can be a powerful financial tool. With the equity in your home, you can access funds at relatively low interest rates and put that money to work in smart, strategic ways.
Understanding Mortgage Escrow Accounts and Why They Are Important
A mortgage escrow account is a financial tool used by lenders to manage and disburse payments for property-related expenses, like property taxes and homeowners insurance. Rather than paying these expenses separately, a portion of your monthly mortgage payment is set aside in the escrow account.
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 24th, 2025
The most impactful report released last week was the regular Consumer Sentiment reports, which have indicated the more recent concerns rising food costs have soured the view on the current state of the economy for the U.S. The talks between the Federal Reserve members have also slanted in a negative direction as they feel they still do not have a strong grip on inflation. With the Trump administration also shaking things up in the office with their views on Tariffs, the land lending and broader markets have seen a lot of turmoil and uncertainty about the future. There should be dampened expectations going forward across all markets.
How Do Mortgage Lenders Decide How Much You Can Borrow?
When buying a home, one of the most critical factors is determining how much you can borrow through a mortgage. Lenders evaluate multiple financial aspects to assess your borrowing capacity.
To Finance Or Not To Finance
Deciding to finance a new home can be exciting, and because of that buyers tend to want to jump right in. Not so fast! Before you start searching for your dream home, you need to get pre-approved and that means applying for a loan.
Common Places to Find Tax Deductions in Your Home
Paying your income taxes each year leaves your wallet a bit thin? There may be money hiding in your home that lessens your tax burden. Here are four places to look
What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 18th, 2025
The major inflation data reports have been released, and the initial readings indicate that inflation has exceeded expectations. While the data suggests that the Federal Reserve is unlikely to allow any further rate cuts beyond those already implemented, optimism remains in the broader lending markets. This optimism is driven by expectations that the new administration may introduce changes to monetary policy in the longer term. Although inflation has come in higher than expected, it remains to be seen what next week's PCE Index--the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation indicator--will reveal.