News

December’s housing data, especially purchase apps and inventory, will offer a preview of 2026 market conditions as rates hold steady.
As interest rates continue to ease and borrower confidence rebuilds, originators are operating in a market that demands both adaptability and creativity.\n\nTo better understand how mortgage professionals are approaching today’s environment, I asked four experienced originators to share how they’re guiding clients, leveraging non-qualified mortgage (non-QM) solutions, and refining their playbooks to stay competitive. What emerged was a shared message of optimism and resilience, as well as a renewed focus on client education and relationships, two cornerstones of long-term success in our business.
Bayview Asset Management has closed its acquisition of Guild Holdings Company, the parent of Guild Mortgage, in a deal that takes the lender private and removes it from the New York Stock Exchange.
For many borrowers, the appraisal is the most stressful step in a refinance: part mystery, part high-stakes hurdle. Will the home appraise high enough? Will it delay closing? What actually determines the final value?
For the past decade, rate marketing has been the dominant gravitational force in mortgage acquisition. Whoever shouted the lowest 30-year fixed rate the loudest won the most attention. But attention has never been the same as intent, and intent has never been the same as a closed loan.
Just in time for the holidays, Troy Palmquist looks at how this legacy manufacturer bounced back from a market downturn and how agents can, too\nA few weeks ago, on a podcast, I was asked which brands I admire most. Without hesitation, I said LEGO. The toy company has an incredible comeback story, from the brink of bankruptcy to one of the world’s most beloved and profitable brands.
Lubbock housing market leads Texas in buyer market conditions as inventory climbs to 8.1 months and demand slows.
Toledo’s housing market saw 46{8798baa09ee0e22630ab1ff0bc2dcfd0435c903e6b64bd00f5a55147e796f4f4} more listings, 38.3{8798baa09ee0e22630ab1ff0bc2dcfd0435c903e6b64bd00f5a55147e796f4f4} price reductions, and an 11.8{8798baa09ee0e22630ab1ff0bc2dcfd0435c903e6b64bd00f5a55147e796f4f4} rise in weekly absorption compared to last year.
Large builders’ mortgage buydowns make new homes more accessible but may artificially inflate prices. There\'s an open debate regarding the long-term impact for buyers.
Pine Bluff homes remain unsold for 91 days, with 34.4{8798baa09ee0e22630ab1ff0bc2dcfd0435c903e6b64bd00f5a55147e796f4f4} of listings cutting prices and inventory at 4.2 months.