Currently Browsing: Market Comentary

These Numbers Don’t Jive!

These Numbers Don’t Jive!

Today I want to run through some numbers because they are worth pointing out. This data is based on a survey done last month by NerdWallet. The two headlines: 67% of all buyers think there is a market crash coming 61% say…

Read More February 16, 2023
Who is Buying Real Estate Right Now?

Who is Buying Real Estate Right Now?

On Friday, we received data about existing home sales. There were a few things that popped out to me: Housing Prices Comparison The first data point looks at housing prices in December 2022 vs. December 2021. The numbers show that housing prices…

Read More January 25, 2023
It’s Happening!

It’s Happening!

It’s starting to look like the market is moving as we have been predicting: inflation is showing signs of dropping off, and we hope that it will continue to bring rates down. We watched last year: as inflation ran, high interest rates…

Read More January 18, 2023
Where’s the Housing Crash?

Where’s the Housing Crash?

There are so many people predicting what to expect in the real estate market for 2023. Of course, we are seeing these conversations, because it happens annually around this time of year. It’s interesting to see the varying opinions – people are…

Read More January 11, 2023
What Could Be More Exciting Than the Fed Meeting Minutes?

What Could Be More Exciting Than the Fed Meeting Minutes?

Welcome to the first week of 2023! Happy New Year! At 11am PST, the Fed released their meeting minutes from last month’s meeting on December 12th. This always happens: they have the meeting, then the meeting minutes are released a few weeks…

Read More January 5, 2023
Are Mortgage Delinquencies on The Rise?

Are Mortgage Delinquencies on The Rise?

Core Logic puts out a report every month about mortgage delinquencies, which is obviously an important statistic about the heath of the of real estate market overall. Mortgage Delinquencies are Trending Down The main headline shows 30 days past due or greater….

Read More December 28, 2022
November 2022 Market Conditions for SW Riverside County

November 2022 Market Conditions for SW Riverside County

New data was just released for November 2022 for Southwest Riverside County.  I’ve taken the time to go through this report in today’s video. It is a bit longer than my normal video, but for those of you in the Real Estate…

Read More December 14, 2022
And the National Housing Survey Says…

And the National Housing Survey Says…

Today I’m sharing details from a report that Fanny Mae released today: the Home Purchase Sentiment Index (HPSI). The report tries to gauge consumer sentiment about buying a house right now. It brings different factors together: Are you likely to buy? Are…

Read More December 7, 2022
New Loan Limits and Inflation Data Coming Tomorrow

New Loan Limits and Inflation Data Coming Tomorrow

A few quick industry updates I want to share with you today. I watch the trends and headlines so I can share this information with my clients, and we can see how mortgages might be affected going forward. Conforming Loan Limits The…

Read More November 30, 2022
Could Right Now Be a Better Time Than You Think to Purchase a Home?

Could Right Now Be a Better Time Than You Think to Purchase a Home?

Is right now a better time than you think to purchase a home? You’ve heard me say this many times lately, but I’m going to share the reminder: right now, there are many headlines that make it seem like a bad time…

Read More November 16, 2022
There is so Much Happening: What Can We Expect in Real Estate?

There is so Much Happening: What Can We Expect in Real Estate?

There is so much data coming in that has the potential to have a big impact on real estate. I want to run through some of these details and explain how it appears to be affecting the industry. Fed Day: Rates Went…

Read More November 9, 2022
The Latest Foreclosure Data:  Is It Misleading?

The Latest Foreclosure Data: Is It Misleading?

Black Night issued the month-over-month foreclosure data. I’ve heard a lot of people talking about this topic: the wave of foreclosures that are going to be coming. The current reality and good news are that according to the numbers, foreclosures appear to…

Read More October 27, 2022
Who Needs a Hug?

Who Needs a Hug?

Who in this crazy business needs a hug right now?! According to Freddie Mac, interest rates are over 7%. It feels like we’ve finally reached the spot where we are only dealing with people who really need to move. It’s a crazy…

Read More October 19, 2022
What Does Oil Have to Do with the Mortgage Business?

What Does Oil Have to Do with the Mortgage Business?

  Do you know that there is a connection between oil and the mortgage business? Most people would never make this association, which is why I wanted to talk about it. What Did OPEC Decide? OPEC (The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting…

Read More October 6, 2022
2/1 Buy Downs Explained

2/1 Buy Downs Explained

2/1 buy downs is a topic that has been trending lately, but I still have a lot of people who are wondering what it is and why they would do it. Here’s what you need to know: What is a 2/1 Buy…

Read More September 29, 2022
It’s Fed Day! Also, Next Week: Best Week of the Year to Purchase a House

It’s Fed Day! Also, Next Week: Best Week of the Year to Purchase a House

Today is Fed Day: as expected the Fed increased rates by three-quarters of a percent. The mortgage/bonds market is having a muted response. So far there isn’t too much movement. If you’ve been watching the trends, it’s been an ugly ride for…

Read More September 22, 2022
Housing Data Surprisingly Strong Considering the Run in Interest Rates

Housing Data Surprisingly Strong Considering the Run in Interest Rates

It’s no surprise that real estate volumes are slowing down, and there are less buyers in the market. Recent housing data is showing that existing homes sales are down by almost 30%. What’s interesting is that some of the price appreciation numbers…

Read More August 25, 2022
Are Home Buyers Finally Getting Their Chance to Negotiate?

Are Home Buyers Finally Getting Their Chance to Negotiate?

We’ve been talking about the real estate market a lot lately, and we are seeing the market shift quite a bit right now. There is significantly more inventory in areas, which is giving the opportunity for buyers. Finally! Is It Finally a…

Read More August 18, 2022
Buying Real Estate in the Metaverse – And Inflation Data

Buying Real Estate in the Metaverse – And Inflation Data

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AUJo1e2my4 To start on a much lighter note: did you know that you can buy real estate in the Metaverse already? I recently saw an interview with Mark Cuban and they were talking about how there is a piece of land next…

Read More August 10, 2022
The Recession Has Begun… Or Maybe Not

The Recession Has Begun… Or Maybe Not

I wanted to follow up about what I discussed in last week’s video: the GDP number that came out on Thursday. It showed another quarter of negative growth, which leads to ongoing conversation that the recession has started. I wanted to add…

Read More August 3, 2022
Fed Day Today and GDP Tomorrow

Fed Day Today and GDP Tomorrow

There are big updates today that a lot of people are paying attention to: it was established that the Fed increased rates by 3/4 of a point. If you look at the charts behind me, you’ll see the green numbers which show…

Read More July 27, 2022
Existing Home Sales Surprisingly Strong!

Existing Home Sales Surprisingly Strong!

We received data for existing home sales in June, and the numbers are worth taking a look at. Obviously, this is a report that comes out every month – and we’ve been paying more attention to it than usual. There’s no question…

Read More July 20, 2022
Inflation is Still Running Hot, As Expected, But Don’t Panic!

Inflation is Still Running Hot, As Expected, But Don’t Panic!

Today’s topic is about the CPI (inflation) number that came out this morning: a record-high 9.1%. It’s definitely running high and we are all feeling it, of course. But this is totally to be expected and will continue happening for the next…

Read More July 14, 2022
The Latest Installment Of: Politicians Just Don’t Get It

The Latest Installment Of: Politicians Just Don’t Get It

Rumors were flying months ago, and now it looks like it’s going to happen… today’s topic is further proof that politicians are focused on votes and that’s all that matters. The recent announcement is that California has green-lighted checks up to $1,050…

Read More June 29, 2022
What’s More Painful Than Purchasing a House Right Now… RENTING!

What’s More Painful Than Purchasing a House Right Now… RENTING!

What is more painful than buying a home right now, even with interest rates high and housing prices going up year over year? It’s renting! Double-Digit Increases in Rent Costs We have a report on rent costs around the country. The lowest…

Read More June 22, 2022
It’s Fed Day – So Far So Good

It’s Fed Day – So Far So Good

Today is Fed Day, and it’s been a doozy! Last Friday, the CPI number came in higher than expected, so there’s been a lot going on in the market. We’ve seen mortgage rates up by 3/4 of a percent! It hasn’t been…

Read More June 15, 2022
Jobs Report Friday… Why Does It Matter?

Jobs Report Friday… Why Does It Matter?

In a few days, on Friday, is the 1x per month jobs data number report. This comes out the first Friday of every month. It looks at the previous month’s jobs numbers and includes unemployment information. Why does it matter? It’s one…

Read More June 1, 2022
April Housing Data Still Looking Strong

April Housing Data Still Looking Strong

The April housing data report came out, and it continues to show strong numbers. But some of what we have been talking about is indeed starting to happen. Here’s what you need to know: Year Over Year Inventory is Higher For example,…

Read More May 18, 2022
Peak Inflation… Probably Not Yet

Peak Inflation… Probably Not Yet

Today, a big economic data point came out: Consumer Price Index (CPI). It’s an inflation number, which is an important hot button in the mortgage industry right now, because inflation is the main reason why interest rates are going up. Inflation is…

Read More May 11, 2022
Fed Day – Green is Good

Fed Day – Green is Good

It was highly anticipated that on Fed Day this week that rates would be raised by half a percent. One thing I want to point out with this Fed announcement is something that I’ve shared in the past: when the Fed raises…

Read More May 5, 2022
Housing is Still Looking Strong

Housing is Still Looking Strong

This morning, important monthly housing data came out. The numbers show that the market is continuing to stay strong. There are some possible hurdles ahead, but things are still looking good currently. Annual Home Sales 5.77 million annualized units (which is strong…

Read More April 21, 2022
Hard Money Loans for Owner Occupied Properties

Hard Money Loans for Owner Occupied Properties

This week, we rolled out a product that I thought we’d never see. At Franklin Loan Center, we’re pretty good with hard money loans for people who need loans where income or employment doesn’t matter. But these types of loans are only…

Read More April 13, 2022
Are You Having a Difficult Time Getting Financing for a Property… We Can Probably Help

Are You Having a Difficult Time Getting Financing for a Property… We Can Probably Help

A topic that has been coming up as a byproduct of the current market: financing unique properties. I wanted to talk about this a little bit today to let you know that there are options available. Any Property Can Sell Right Now…

Read More April 6, 2022
I’m No Professor, But I Think This Might Be a Bad Idea…

I’m No Professor, But I Think This Might Be a Bad Idea…

This week I’m talking about a topic that isn’t necessarily real estate related, but it definitely has a tie-in: inflation. Here in California, we are hearing a lot about our state government working on a $400 giveaway for everybody because gas prices…

Read More March 30, 2022
The Fed Increased Rates By .25%. The Market is Skeptical

The Fed Increased Rates By .25%. The Market is Skeptical

The Fed meets on Wednesday every six weeks, and this week they decided to increase the Fed Funds Rate by .25%. I’ve talked about this topic before, but it’s a good chance to review: does this rate change have any impact on…

Read More March 17, 2022
Uncertainty is the Name of the Game

Uncertainty is the Name of the Game

The main topic of today: the uncertainty of what is happening with the economy and everything that is happening right now. The combination of COVID plus the news that is coming out of Ukraine is adding even more uncertainty to our situation….

Read More March 9, 2022
The Fed Says They’re Only Increasing Rates by 25%. It’s Not What It Seems…

The Fed Says They’re Only Increasing Rates by 25%. It’s Not What It Seems…

Earlier today, The Fed was in front of congress and talking about the direction we are going with rates. One thing they said seemed to be great news on the surface – regarding a small increase in rates. Note: remember that we…

Read More March 2, 2022
Significant Changes for Self-Employed Clients Looking to Get a Mortgage

Significant Changes for Self-Employed Clients Looking to Get a Mortgage

Today, I’m sharing news about big changes that just rolled out regarding conventional loans for people who are self-employed. Are You Self Employed? If you are running a company or are a member of a corporation, LLC, or a partnership (holding 25%…

Read More February 16, 2022
What’s Really Happening with Interest Rates?

What’s Really Happening with Interest Rates?

In today’s video, I’m sharing some geeky charts so we can what is happening to interest rates and where we stand right now – and where I think we are heading (based on my opinion). Breaking Down Interest Rates In this chart,…

Read More January 19, 2022
How Do the Numbers for a Home Purchase Compare to Renting?

How Do the Numbers for a Home Purchase Compare to Renting?

It’s been a while since I shared a video on a rent vs. buy scenario. In the real estate business, there is always a mindset: you need to live somewhere – might as well be smart with your spending. If you are…

Read More January 13, 2022
Update: How Have the Bond Markets Responded to Last Week’s Fed Announcement?

Update: How Have the Bond Markets Responded to Last Week’s Fed Announcement?

I want to follow up about the big Fed announcement from last week. Some of the experts that I’m following were predicting that the Fed would double the amount of tapering of bonds that they are buying (both treasuries and mortgage-backed securities)….

Read More December 23, 2021
What Will the Fed Do About Inflation?

What Will the Fed Do About Inflation?

One of the biggest talking points in the financial industry right now is the topic of inflation. We are seeing the prices go up across all industries, which means that we are paying more for stuff compared to the prices just a…

Read More December 15, 2021
Here’s a Way to Look at Housing Price Activity I Haven’t Seen Before

Here’s a Way to Look at Housing Price Activity I Haven’t Seen Before

There’s no question at this point that housing prices are going up and up. But part of the challenge with looking at median home prices is that these increases can be a little misleading. Especially here in Southern California: when the high…

Read More December 8, 2021
New Loan Limits: What Home Buyers Need to Know

New Loan Limits: What Home Buyers Need to Know

The big news in the mortgage industry is that we have new conforming and FHA loan limits for 2022! New Loan Limits for Conventional and FHA Loans Starting right away for conventional loans, the new limit across the United States is $647,200….

Read More December 2, 2021
Slowing Appreciation Starting to Show Up in the Charts

Slowing Appreciation Starting to Show Up in the Charts

Today, I want to revisit a chart that we looked at a few months ago. I’m bringing it up again because we’ve received new housing data in recent days, and it is still showing low inventory. What is Affecting Low Inventory? There…

Read More November 18, 2021
Zillow is Shutting Down Their iBuyer Program

Zillow is Shutting Down Their iBuyer Program

There’s a big headline in the news: Zillow is shutting down their iBuyer program. It’s interesting to see how Zillow stepped in confidently – following the algorithms (their “Zestimates”), making blind offers on properties, sending someone to do a quick inspection, and…

Read More November 3, 2021
Home Appreciation is Slowing… That’s the Good News!

Home Appreciation is Slowing… That’s the Good News!

A report came out yesterday: the FHFA Housing Price Index. The update was all over the media outlets, with lots of people talking about a possible housing crash. This report shows that housing appreciation is slowing down across the nation. My opinion…

Read More October 27, 2021
New Conforming Loan Limits

New Conforming Loan Limits

This topic has been all over the news lately: the new loan limits. Every year, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac re-evaluate conventional loan limits. They go back to look at how much appreciation they saw in Q3, then they increase the loan…

Read More October 21, 2021
Does Today’s Housing Market Resemble 2006?

Does Today’s Housing Market Resemble 2006?

With the escalation we’ve seen in home prices over the past few years, many fear that we may be headed for another housing “bubble” and that a crash is just around the corner. So are we truly in the same place as…

Read More October 13, 2021
How Could Threats of a Change in Long Term Capital Gains Affect Real Estate?

How Could Threats of a Change in Long Term Capital Gains Affect Real Estate?

As we start Q4 this year, there is a lot of talk out of Washington D.C. about a possibility of an increase in the short-term capital gains tax. It feels like a situation where there has been so much in real estate…

Read More October 7, 2021
It’s Fed Day! I Hope These Fed Presidents Know What They are Doing…

It’s Fed Day! I Hope These Fed Presidents Know What They are Doing…

Anyone in the mortgage or real estate business needs to be paying attention to what is happening in the Fed meeting and the announcement. Today was day 2 of the meeting, where they always make an announcement at 11 am PST. I…

Read More September 22, 2021
Franklin Rolls Out New Down Payment Assistance Program

Franklin Rolls Out New Down Payment Assistance Program

Great news: we just rolled out a new down payment assistance program. This option is for first-time home buyers. With prices going up, the down payment is getting harder to achieve. There is a big cross-section in the world that assumes you…

Read More September 15, 2021
How Much Equity is Available?

How Much Equity is Available?

There was a headline today that jumped out at me – it speaks to what is really happening in the housing market right now. People are wondering if the current trends are sustainable and whether we have a big crash coming. The…

Read More September 8, 2021
An Interesting Look at Where Housing Prices are Today

An Interesting Look at Where Housing Prices are Today

In today’s video, I’m sharing data from a presentation that we do every month. This information shows an interesting perspective to show the run-up in prices that we are seeing recently. I think it makes a strong justification that maybe the market…

Read More August 11, 2021
Mortgage Rates in a Downward Trend. Can it Last?

Mortgage Rates in a Downward Trend. Can it Last?

I want to talk about rates today. Rates have been so great for a while that it seems like we are used to the low numbers that we’ve been seeing for some time. Interest Rate Trends So Far in 2021 They have…

Read More August 4, 2021
Actual Appreciation VS. Median Home Price

Actual Appreciation VS. Median Home Price

Today I want to talk about what is going on with the housing market and current housing prices. If you’ve been paying attention, you can see that the real estate market is still on fire. Last week, we got year-over-year median home…

Read More June 30, 2021
Moving to Another State… Franklin Likely Has You Covered

Moving to Another State… Franklin Likely Has You Covered

I was out of town this week, and it reminded me that I haven’t really talked about how many states that Franklin is licensed in. Personally, I can help with mortgages in California and Washington. I’ve got those 2 state licenses. If…

Read More June 10, 2021
The Fix for Inflation… Who Agrees with Me?

The Fix for Inflation… Who Agrees with Me?

Who agrees with me on fixing inflation? The inflation numbers are showing that things are out of control. I think these numbers are actually worse than what is being reported. The most obvious fix: we have to stop the “Great American Giveaway.”…

Read More June 3, 2021
Housing Price Appreciation is Accelerating

Housing Price Appreciation is Accelerating

Yesterday, a new housing report came out – it was another doozy in the housing market. The numbers show that nationally we are up more than 13% year-over-year. That’s higher than it was last month, which means that things are accelerating faster….

Read More May 26, 2021
Inflation has a Huge Jump – What Does it Mean for Real Estate?

Inflation has a Huge Jump – What Does it Mean for Real Estate?

Inflation is kicking in – does it matter? I’m talking about this topic in today’s video because of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report this morning. The numbers were 3 – 4x of expectations, and those expectations were already higher than normal….

Read More May 12, 2021
Federal Judge Overturns National Eviction Ban

Federal Judge Overturns National Eviction Ban

A saw a headline on CNBC: Federal Judge Overturns National Eviction Ban. The article is quick to mention that it may not have the immediate effect of all landlords being able to evict people right away. But it certainly appears to be…

Read More May 5, 2021
Federal Assistance to First Time Home Buyers Right Now? Are You Kidding Me?!

Federal Assistance to First Time Home Buyers Right Now? Are You Kidding Me?!

I mentioned this topic a few months ago – but I’m amazed that it’s actually trying to fight its way through congress right now. There’s a bill released where they are trying to put together a $25,000 credit (in the form of…

Read More April 28, 2021
Showing Time vs SentriLock – Does it Even Matter?

Showing Time vs SentriLock – Does it Even Matter?

This topic has nothing to do about the mortgage business, but is very related to the real estate industry – and I hope to start a conversation on this topic. Thanks to Bob Fox and National Real Estate Post for bringing this…

Read More April 21, 2021
Is There Any Good Argument for Purchasing a House Right Now?

Is There Any Good Argument for Purchasing a House Right Now?

The housing market is insane right now. It doesn’t matter where you are: Northern California, Southern California, Seattle, Idaho, etc. All of the markets that I can get data on are exploding right now. Of course, now there is a steady stream…

Read More April 14, 2021
Southern Cal Real Estate Numbers for March: Another Crazy Month!!

Southern Cal Real Estate Numbers for March: Another Crazy Month!!

Every month, we get a real estate report – click here if you want to download the full report. Most of these comparisons are year-over-year, and the numbers are getting crazier with time. This month in particular is odd because a year…

Read More April 8, 2021
It Could Be a Pivotal Fed Day Today

It Could Be a Pivotal Fed Day Today

It’s Fed day – I mention it every time the Fed meets. More often than not, it’s pretty mundane because the market is has already anticipated what is going to happen, so the news isn’t surprising. A Lot Hanging on the Fed…

Read More March 17, 2021
Rates May Increase – Will They Come Back Down?

Rates May Increase – Will They Come Back Down?

It’s been a tough few weeks with interest rates running in the wrong direction. I’ve been looking to various resources to make sense of what is happening right now. Barry Habib offered great insight, particularly for those of you in the real…

Read More March 11, 2021
What is Zillow’s Plan?

What is Zillow’s Plan?

Zillow has forever been the place to go when people want to check the value on their house, known as a “Zestimate.” Many regular consumers who aren’t in the industry didn’t realize that Zillow has been a big lead generation source for…

Read More March 3, 2021
The Forbearance Can is Continuing to Be Kicked

The Forbearance Can is Continuing to Be Kicked

Headline this morning: Mortgage Delinquencies Fell Below 6% for the First Time Since March. That sounds like good news! What is 6% relative to? How does it shape up compared to where we really stand? Mortgage Delinquencies Are Down The good news…

Read More February 24, 2021
What is Real the Unemployment Rate?

What is Real the Unemployment Rate?

Hint… it’s not what the Fed report says. Today I want to touch on the unemployment reports that we hear from the government each month – an announcement that always comes out the first Friday every month. It’s always a big number…

Read More February 10, 2021
Headline: Homebuyers Stall Due to Sticker Shock

Headline: Homebuyers Stall Due to Sticker Shock

I saw a headline on CNBC today that made me laugh: Homebuyers Stall Due to Sticker Shock. Is it true? There’s definitely a bunch of buyers out there, especially for this early in the year. Inventory is still low – it’s a…

Read More February 3, 2021
When Tax Credits are Actually Bad

When Tax Credits are Actually Bad

Yesterday, I had 2 conversations that gave me the idea to address this topic in a video. One of the things that Biden talked about in his election campaign was a first-time homebuyer tax credit – up to $15,000. Why Real Estate…

Read More January 27, 2021
Touchy Investors in the Bond Market – What it Means for Mortgage Rates

Touchy Investors in the Bond Market – What it Means for Mortgage Rates

It’s interesting to see how much things can change in just a week! So many events that have happened since my video last Wednesday, making it a challenge to keep up with everything that is going on. How do we tie these…

Read More January 13, 2021
Housing Finishes 2020 with a THUD! Nope!!

Housing Finishes 2020 with a THUD! Nope!!

It’s the last Wednesday in 2020! This year has been a mix of good and unusual circumstances. Pending home sales came out this morning. The headline makes it sound like the year might be ending on a bad note, potentially predicting what…

Read More December 30, 2020
A Serious Question About the Proposed Stimulus Checks

A Serious Question About the Proposed Stimulus Checks

I need someone to objectively help me understand why we are talking about giving tons of money in stimulus checks to everyone in the United States. I realize it’s not everyone because there are limitations on income, etc. But, why are we…

Read More December 23, 2020
Fed Announces They are Staying Involved in Bond Purchases

Fed Announces They are Staying Involved in Bond Purchases

It’s Fed day, which always gives us a chance to talk about how the mortgage industry is affected by these announcements. To reiterate: they always make an announcement about the Fed funds rate, but this rate is a completely different rate than…

Read More December 16, 2020
So Much for the Cyclical Year End Slow Down…

So Much for the Cyclical Year End Slow Down…

Going into the holidays, we typically see a cyclical slowdown in the real estate market during this time of year. Today I looked at November’s stats to see the current trends in the market, and it’s clear that this slowdown isn’t happening…

Read More December 9, 2020
Is December a Good Time to Sell Your Home?

Is December a Good Time to Sell Your Home?

Every year during this time, we hear about the same topic from homeowners: is it a good month to buy or sell? Or, should I wait until the new year? Volumes tend to nosedive in December when it comes to real estate…

Read More December 2, 2020
The News Cycles Continue… What’s the Impact?

The News Cycles Continue… What’s the Impact?

As a follow-up to last week’s topic, I’m still watching the news headlines to see what is going on in our country. These news stories impact the financial markets, which has an impact on interest rates – so I want to see…

Read More November 11, 2020
Since There is Nothing Happening in the News… Today We Talk About Knitting!

Since There is Nothing Happening in the News… Today We Talk About Knitting!

There’s not really anything going on in the news today… since it’s super slow, I figured we’d talk about knitting! Yeah right! Can you hear the sarcasm coming through? Who Knows What to Expect? Here we are, it’s 2020 – the election…

Read More November 4, 2020
Don’t Assume Mortgage Rates Will Be This Low Forever

Don’t Assume Mortgage Rates Will Be This Low Forever

We’ve seen rates really low in recent months, and mortgage rates continue to hang in there at these low levels. But I don’t want us to get lulled into believing that these rates will be here forever. Current Conditions Affecting Mortgage Rates…

Read More October 28, 2020
It’s All About Slow and Steady

It’s All About Slow and Steady

The insanity leading up to this election is almost more than I can handle! So, I’m asking myself: where do we find sanity, where do we take some control back? First thing: turn off your TV and social media. I’m thinking about…

Read More October 21, 2020
September Housing Data… Unbelievable!!!

September Housing Data… Unbelievable!!!

We just got information about the September 2020 housing data – click here if you’d like to see a copy of the report. There are some crazy stats that continue to blow me away. There’s no doubt about it… the market is…

Read More October 14, 2020
Housing Affordability… What’s the Real Story???

Housing Affordability… What’s the Real Story???

Recently two experts have set me straight on what is going on with housing affordability: Walter Neil (the CEO of Franklin Loan Center), and also Barry Habib (a mortgage-backed securities guru). These guys both look at the numbers at a high level….

Read More October 7, 2020
CA Prop 15 – Non-Political

CA Prop 15 – Non-Political

Let’s talk a little bit about Prop 15 today. I’ve always promised no politics in my updates, and I feel like this is an appropriate topic because I don’t see it as a political thing. For anyone who doesn’t know, Proposition 15…

Read More September 30, 2020
What’s Driving Real Estate?

What’s Driving Real Estate?

Last week, Walter Neil (CEO of Franklin Loan Center), put on a presentation about the real estate market where he talked about what’s driving the industry right now. Today, I want to pass along a few nuggets that I thought were super…

Read More September 23, 2020
The Fed Says…Low Rates Forever???

The Fed Says…Low Rates Forever???

Today was another Fed meeting – day 2 of their regularly scheduled meeting. They came out with their announcement. I like to talk about this every time they meet since these announcements shine light on economic factors in our country. Rates are…

Read More September 16, 2020
Market Data Event: Wednesday, September 16th

Market Data Event: Wednesday, September 16th

Two things I want to cover today to keep you updated about what is going on right now: #1 – Market Data Event Next week, Franklin Loan Center is putting on a full market update, really geared towards the real estate community….

Read More September 9, 2020
The Eviction Moratorium – a Catch 22

The Eviction Moratorium – a Catch 22

One significant catch-22 we’re facing with COVID-19 and everything else that is going on right now in the economy is the eviction moratorium. Eviction Moratorium Thru the End of 2020 It was announced earlier today that the Trump administration has pushed the…

Read More September 2, 2020
Homeownership Rates Up. Is That All Good News?

Homeownership Rates Up. Is That All Good News?

A report came out yesterday regarding homeownership rates. These rates have been on a steady include over the last several years. It got me wondering: last time we hit a peak in homeownership was 2006, and we all know how that ended!…

Read More August 5, 2020
It’s Fed Day! Wait… What???

It’s Fed Day! Wait… What???

I might be the only guy that gets excited about Fed day! Today marked day 2 of the Fed meeting, and there were no surprises. If anything, the Fed sounded a little dejected about the market. There is no reason to start…

Read More July 30, 2020
Here We Go Again?

Here We Go Again?

The big news of the week is that we are going back to a partial shutdown again. These are crazy, unprecedented times – it’s hard to know what to say about it. We are back to conversations about who is essential and…

Read More July 16, 2020
Save BIG on Real Estate Over the Long Haul

Save BIG on Real Estate Over the Long Haul

Last week, I talked about how to save a ton of money by taking advantage of today’s interest rates – which is a ton of money on the mortgage front. It made me think: why not tell my own story about what…

Read More July 8, 2020
How to Save Nearly $100,000 on Purchasing a Home

How to Save Nearly $100,000 on Purchasing a Home

Did the headline catch your attention? There is a simple solution if you are looking for a way to save $100,000 when buying a house: buy now, instead of a year ago when rates were 1% higher! Interest Rates: 2020 Compared to…

Read More July 2, 2020
It’s All About Supply and Demand

It’s All About Supply and Demand

The market is showing amazing resilience – particularly in the purchase market and the things that are happening here in the Temecula area and Southwest Riverside County. I know that there are differing results across the country, with other pockets of areas…

Read More June 18, 2020
Good News from the Fed

Good News from the Fed

Instead of recording my video in the morning like usual, I waited until after the Fed announcement today. They announced that rates are staying at zero – which is no surprise. One surprising bit of news is that they expect rates to…

Read More June 11, 2020
The Housing Market is the Brightest Spot in the Economy

The Housing Market is the Brightest Spot in the Economy

First, I wanted to send out a big THANK YOU for the major love I’ve received in response to my 50th birthday yesterday. Thank you for the messages and well-wishes! Unexpected Results in COVID-19 Walter Neil, the owner of Franklin Loan Center,…

Read More June 3, 2020
Realtors and Home Buyers: Good News on the Forbearance Front

Realtors and Home Buyers: Good News on the Forbearance Front

We heard a great update last week from Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac regarding conventional loans. We are finally going to be able to let loose a bit to get some of the loans going again if they went into forbearance. A…

Read More May 27, 2020
Jumbo Lending Showing Signs of a Bit of a Thaw

Jumbo Lending Showing Signs of a Bit of a Thaw

I have a bit of good news. In recent weeks, lending has been shrinking due to the pandemic and economic changes that have been happening. But things are starting to shift again, which is good news in the mortgage industry. Jumbo Loan…

Read More May 21, 2020
3 Good Things about the Mortgage Business You Should Know

3 Good Things about the Mortgage Business You Should Know

It seems like everyone is talking about how the sky is falling, and we’re obviously feeling a little cooped up being stuck at home. Today, I wanted to share 3 great things that are going on in mortgage and real estate right…

Read More April 29, 2020
Join Us on April 23 at 9:00am: Tips for Keeping Your Business on Track During COVID-19

Join Us on April 23 at 9:00am: Tips for Keeping Your Business on Track During COVID-19

A quick announcement for you: On Thursday, April 23 I am putting on a free Zoom call with a handful of people from the real estate industry. It’s going to be a great call for anybody, even if you don’t work in…

Read More April 23, 2020
Be Cautious About the Quality of Your News Sources

Be Cautious About the Quality of Your News Sources

  Many of us are checking the news throughout the day right now. Not only do we have extra time at home, but everyone is looking for the latest updates on the current pandemic situation. While it’s important to stay up-to-date on…

Read More April 16, 2020
Current News: Updates in the Mortgage Biz This Week

Current News: Updates in the Mortgage Biz This Week

It’s been another crazy week with a lot of changes going on in the mortgage and real estate industries. I wanted to share a few things that are brand new since the last time we talked: What You Need to Know about…

Read More April 8, 2020
Things are Fluid in Real Estate Right Now

Things are Fluid in Real Estate Right Now

It is amazing how much happens so quickly in such a short time right now! I wanted to share details about a few new updates in the industry – changes that have come about since my video last week. Real Estate is…

Read More April 2, 2020
Updates: This Week in Mortgage and Real Estate

Updates: This Week in Mortgage and Real Estate

What a week! It feels like every week goes by and we have a whole new set of circumstances that we couldn’t have anticipated. When you compare last Wednesday with this Wednesday, it’s a different picture: we are all kept inside the…

Read More March 25, 2020
Come Together: Leadership is What We Need

Come Together: Leadership is What We Need

I do this video every week – and it’s amazing how much things have changed since last Wednesday. So many businesses are closing and a lot is going on around the world. A few days ago, Walter Neil (the owner of Franklin…

Read More March 19, 2020
What a Ride the Last Couple Weeks

What a Ride the Last Couple Weeks

If you’ve been paying attention to the news, you know that the financial markets have been going nuts – with big up days and big down days. There have been more down days than up, which creates a bit of uneasiness. How…

Read More March 12, 2020
How are the Big Moves in the Financial Markets Affecting Rates?

How are the Big Moves in the Financial Markets Affecting Rates?

My phone has been blowing up with people asking questions about the current news headlines: The Fed dropping rates by .5 of a point, and the DOW average is moving fast. What is going on? Here’s what you need to know: Quick…

Read More March 4, 2020
Things to Watch for in the Economy

Things to Watch for in the Economy

Last week I shared undeniable signs that show strength in the economy and real estate industry. In the spirit of being realistic, let’s look at the factors that could indicate signs that the economy is weakening. This information also came from Walter…

Read More January 29, 2020
Undeniable Signs of Strength in Real Estate

Undeniable Signs of Strength in Real Estate

Today I’m going to highlight a few interesting things from our economic update conference last week. Every person that I’m working with right now shares their concerns about what is happening in the real estate market. Where are we? How are things…

Read More January 22, 2020
The More You Know… A Day of Market Updates

The More You Know… A Day of Market Updates

Today, I have a bunch of market updates to share with you. First, if you are local in Temecula, Murrieta, or in the Southwest Riverside County, Franklin Loan Center is having our market update event at the Board of Realtors. We’re pretty…

Read More January 15, 2020
REALTORS! See Franklin Loan Center’s CEO for a Real Estate Update

REALTORS! See Franklin Loan Center’s CEO for a Real Estate Update

Happy New Year! It’s our first full week back in the office, and it feels good to get back into the regular schedule again. The holiday break is always fun, but I like the excitement when everyone returns to the office again….

Read More January 8, 2020
Top 50 Boomtowns…Menifee, Seattle and Bellevue on the List

Top 50 Boomtowns…Menifee, Seattle and Bellevue on the List

I recently read an article by Smart Asset that listed the top 50 “Boom Towns” in the United States. A lot of these cities were in the Southeast, like South Carolina. I also noticed cities in Texas and Colorado dominate the top…

Read More December 11, 2019
New Conventional Loan Limits

New Conventional Loan Limits

Every year during this time, Fannie and Freddie roll out their new lending details for the next year. This week, the Federal Housing Financing Agency (FHFA) announced the 2020 loan limit. These new limits are essentially available today. New Lending Limits The…

Read More November 27, 2019
It’s Fed Day!

It’s Fed Day!

Happy Fed Day! Today is another Fed meeting. The way it works is that they have a 2-day meeting, then on Wednesday they announce whether they are going to make a move on the Fed Funds rate. When I recorded the video,…

Read More October 30, 2019
The Power of a Tweet…

The Power of a Tweet…

This morning, I want to talk again about how small, simple things from our politicians can impact bigger trends economically. Sometimes we see the markets and rates whipping around because of one statement or another. Yes, big economic changes can have an…

Read More September 25, 2019
The Psychology of the Economy

The Psychology of the Economy

I’m excited to have my special guest, Lexi Provost with us today – talking about the psychology of the economy. Lexi recently graduated from UCSB with a psychology and brain science major. One thing that has been coming up in the real…

Read More September 18, 2019
Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth?

Looking a Gift Horse in the Mouth?

Continuing with our conversation last week about low interest rates, I have to ask the question: are we looking a gift horse in the mouth? The gift I’m talking about is the drop in interest rates we are experiencing right now. 1%…

Read More August 28, 2019
Refinance Activity Up Dramatically Year Over Year

Refinance Activity Up Dramatically Year Over Year

This morning I listened to a podcast that shared an interesting statistic: year over year, refinance activity is up 180%. Anyone in the loan business has seen an increase in demand for refinances. A bunch of activity has been happening right now,…

Read More August 21, 2019
What’s Happening in the Financial Markets Today?

What’s Happening in the Financial Markets Today?

If you’ve been paying attention to the financial markets today, you know that it’s been a rollercoaster on Wall Street. I checked the trends right before filming this video, and the Dow was down over 600 points. This is my 3rd week…

Read More August 14, 2019
What’s Really Happening with Interest Rates?

What’s Really Happening with Interest Rates?

I talked about interest rates last week, and figured it was worth a discussion again this week because of all of the current news around the topic. Last week, I talked about how the Fed dropped rates by a quarter, which brought…

Read More August 8, 2019
It’s Fed Decision Day – But It May Not Be What You Think

It’s Fed Decision Day – But It May Not Be What You Think

Fed decision day has rolled around again, and I often highlight this topic in my video to share awareness about what is happening in the industry. The FED is finishing up their 2-day meeting today and should be finished shortly. Will Rates…

Read More July 31, 2019
The Difference Between Franklin Loan Center and Other Lenders

The Difference Between Franklin Loan Center and Other Lenders

  I pulled up some stats, and over the last 12 months over 2,000 loan officers have closed a loan in Riverside County alone! This stat shows how much competition there is in the industry, which raises the question: “Why should I…

Read More June 26, 2019
Everything is on Sale

Everything is on Sale

It was another Fed meeting today, so it’s timely for me to talk about interest rates in my weekly video. The announcement was that they decided to hold the Fed funds rate, although there has been rumor that interest rates might continue…

Read More June 19, 2019
When Does it Make Sense to Refinance My Mortgage?

When Does it Make Sense to Refinance My Mortgage?

Rates have dropped, so it is natural that I am hearing more questions about mortgage refinancing. I know that I’ve talked about this topic a few times recently, but it’s always a relevant topic in the industry. When does it make sense…

Read More June 12, 2019
Make Your Home Beautiful

Make Your Home Beautiful

Today, I talked with Annette Rogers from AMI Designs. Her specialty is making your home beautiful! Not only does Annette help with individual projects for homeowners who want to update the décor at home. But these services are also available for realtors…

Read More June 5, 2019
Interest Rates are in the News Again

Interest Rates are in the News Again

When the topic of interest rates hit the news channels, it’s common for everyone working in the real estate business to get many questions about this topic. Most of the calls I’ve received over the past few days are from clients who…

Read More May 29, 2019
How are the New Tariffs Affecting Mortgage Rates?

How are the New Tariffs Affecting Mortgage Rates?

The trade war with China is dominating the news headlines right now. Everyone knows that economic news can affect interest rates, so many people are watching to see what will happen in the mortgage industry. Will these tariff changes have an impact…

Read More May 15, 2019
Real Estate Roadblocks – When is the Right Time to Buy?

Real Estate Roadblocks – When is the Right Time to Buy?

This morning a read an article in the news that talked about how Uber and Lyft are both going public right now, and it is actually having an impact on Bay area real estate. People are pulling houses off the market waiting…

Read More April 17, 2019
Are Rates Too High to Buy a House Now?

Are Rates Too High to Buy a House Now?

One of my favorite homeownership myths to address is the topic of interest rate fluctuations. I’ve been hearing people complain about how much rates have gone up, making them think that it’s a bad time to buy real estate. One Fact to…

Read More March 6, 2019
Buyer Beware! Mortgage Companies Can Quote Anything

Buyer Beware! Mortgage Companies Can Quote Anything

Last week I was talking about how rates have dropped, and I wanted to follow up on that topic to expand a little more. It’s exciting to see the dip in interest rates. What’s happening now is there is an uptick in…

Read More January 10, 2019
New Year, New Mortgage

New Year, New Mortgage

Happy New Year! Now that 2019 is here, it’s time to think about your current mortgage and if any modifications need to be made. Whether you are considering a refinance or you are ready to buy a new home, I’m here to…

Read More January 2, 2019
It’s Fed Decision Day. Are Rates Going Up?

It’s Fed Decision Day. Are Rates Going Up?

The Fed will be deciding again today whether rates will be going up. I always keep my network updated about the changes that are happening with mortgages, so I wanted to share some insight into what to expect with mortgage rates. I…

Read More December 20, 2018
Perspective in the Real Estate Market

Perspective in the Real Estate Market

It is undeniable that we’ve seen some changes in the real estate market. Changes always make people nervous. People are looking for answers about what it means: what should your takeaway be as you listen to all of the “news” in the…

Read More December 5, 2018
New Loan Limits Just Announced

New Loan Limits Just Announced

New information has been released about the loan limits for conforming loans. This topic has been spreading all over social media already, but I wanted to share the details so that you understand your options. Yesterday, it was announced that lending limits…

Read More November 28, 2018
The Election is Over!!! Now What?

The Election is Over!!! Now What?

Are you feeling relieved now that the election is over? Regardless of politic opinions, many people felt that this election season was intense. It is exciting to know that we don’t have to see any ads about a politician who is most…

Read More November 7, 2018
Is the Housing Market Showing Some Scary Signs?

Is the Housing Market Showing Some Scary Signs?

Happy Halloween! In my video today, I’m talking about something that seems scary to people: the trends in the real estate market. Is there anything that you need to be frightened about? I’ve read a few different articles recently that talked about…

Read More October 31, 2018
Rent Control: Prop 10

Rent Control: Prop 10

One of the things Californians will be voting in November is Prop 10. I won’t get into the details of the proposition, but the 30,000-foot view is that it’s deciding whether jurisdictions can pass rent controls on homeowners. Today I’m talking about…

Read More October 10, 2018
You Have to Borrow Money When You Don’t Need It!

You Have to Borrow Money When You Don’t Need It!

The topic that I discussed in the video for the week is mainly a public service announcement, targeted for my contacts who are business owners or have an entrepreneurial mindset. Anyone who doesn’t work a salaried job has a high risk of…

Read More August 29, 2018
What You Need to Know If You are in the Fire Zones

What You Need to Know If You are in the Fire Zones

Many fires are burning in the state and threatening homes in the area. This fire season has been awful, so it is important that homeowners understand a bit of information in case you are affected in any way. Even if your home…

Read More August 15, 2018
Down Payment Gifts for Public Employees

Down Payment Gifts for Public Employees

At Franklin Loan Center, we are always looking for the best solutions for our clients. There are many options available for down payment assistance, which often result in a $0 down option when you are preparing to buy a home. Sometimes, these…

Read More August 8, 2018
Words from a Wise Real Estate Investor

Words from a Wise Real Estate Investor

No… that wise real estate investor is not me. This advice comes from someone with a ton more experience than me and much richer than me. My dad’s cousin, Frank, was a very successful real estate investor, and he offered this advice…

Read More June 21, 2018
What is Happening with Interest Rates?

What is Happening with Interest Rates?

Today was another day that people in the finance industry anticipate: another Fed meeting. The announcement is that rates went up by .25% today, but that doesn’t mean your mortgage rate is up .25%. This has been a common trend and is…

Read More June 14, 2018
It’s Graduation Time! Who is Thinking about Downsizing?

It’s Graduation Time! Who is Thinking about Downsizing?

It’s that time of year: high school students are graduating and preparing to move to college. At the same time, recent college graduates are moving away to start their careers. This topic touches the hearts of my wife and I because three…

Read More May 24, 2018
Perspective in Mortgage Rates: How Current Rates Compare to the Past

Perspective in Mortgage Rates: How Current Rates Compare to the Past

Today I want to bring some perspective on interest rates, helping you see the whole picture of the mortgage industry. Rates have been on an uptrend for 18 months, with a little bit of normal volatility along the way. Short-Term and Long-Term…

Read More May 10, 2018
The Vocabulary of Real Estate

The Vocabulary of Real Estate

Every industry has unique acronyms and terms that are used to talk about business, and real estate is no different. If you aren’t familiar with the industry terms, then it might feel like you need a translator to understand the conversations about…

Read More April 25, 2018
Selling Your House so You Can Rent??

Selling Your House so You Can Rent??

Recently, I’ve had several people tell me that they are selling their real estate so they can wait for the crash, then buy back into the market again. From my perspective as a real estate professional, this idea doesn’t make sense. Here’s…

Read More April 11, 2018
You are Paying How Much in Rent!?!

You are Paying How Much in Rent!?!

Last week, I stumbled across an article that I thought would be a good starting point for our conversation today. The headline was talking about how millennials will spend almost $100,000 in rent between the ages of 22 and 30. Keep in…

Read More April 4, 2018
What Factors Influence Interest Rates?

What Factors Influence Interest Rates?

After our discussion last week about how the Fed rate changes don’t have a big effect on mortgage interest rates, I thought it would be a good topic to discuss the things that DO impact interest rates. This topic gets a little…

Read More March 29, 2018
Fed Rate Hike: What it Means for Mortgage Rates

Fed Rate Hike: What it Means for Mortgage Rates

It’s that time again. Today is the 2nd day of the Fed meeting; it’s the first meeting with Jay Powell as our new Fed Reserve chairman. Every time there is a meeting, I talk about this topic. This month is no different…

Read More March 21, 2018
Should You Be Worried about the Swings in the Markets This Week?

Should You Be Worried about the Swings in the Markets This Week?

When the national media is talking about the equities market, then it’s probably something that we need to look at. Have you been following the rollercoaster ride that has been happened in the markets this week? The swings have been huge, causing…

Read More February 8, 2018
State of the Union Address

State of the Union Address

The title of this video and post was my way of teasing you… I’ll never talk about politics on these videos. I would rather talk about hair product rather than the State of the Union address! So, instead of diving into the…

Read More February 1, 2018
Dealing with Insurance When Flood and Fire Happens

Dealing with Insurance When Flood and Fire Happens

Nobody wants to consider the risk of a flood or fire in their home, but it can definitely happen. With all of the fires that have occurred in California, it is important to consider the financial implications if this natural disaster impacted…

Read More January 17, 2018
A Few More Details on How the 2018 Tax Changes Will Affect Real Estate

A Few More Details on How the 2018 Tax Changes Will Affect Real Estate

A few weeks ago, I shared a video after the new tax bill came through and mentioned how the proposed changes could affect the real estate market. At the time, I promised to share more information as it became available. So, this…

Read More January 10, 2018
Helping Our Agents with Marketing

Helping Our Agents with Marketing

2018 is here! We are excited about starting a New Year. 2017 had some great victories and challenges, and we are looking forward to seeing what 2018 has in store. My message today is geared towards realtors: here at Franklin Loan Center,…

Read More January 4, 2018
‘Tis the Season for Predictions

‘Tis the Season for Predictions

Can you believe that it is the last week of 2017? We hope that you had a great Christmas weekend, and enjoy the New Year celebrations with your family. At the end of each year, it seems to be the time when…

Read More December 27, 2017
How Will the Anticipated Tax Reform Impact Real Estate?

How Will the Anticipated Tax Reform Impact Real Estate?

It looks like the tax reform will be passing, which means that many people are wondering how these changes will impact their personal and business interests. What effect will these changes have in the real estate industry? I’m always working hard to…

Read More December 20, 2017
Are Interest Rates Going Up Today?

Are Interest Rates Going Up Today?

Today is the 2nd day of the Fed meeting, and many people have been waiting to see if there will be a change in the interest rates. It is anticipated that the Fed will raise interest rates by .25%, but there is…

Read More December 13, 2017
Higher Loan Limits Announced!

Higher Loan Limits Announced!

Today I’m sharing details about a few pieces of news in the industry that you need to know. Whether you are in the real estate business or you are a homeowner, it is important to keep up with the trends. Here are…

Read More November 30, 2017
CA Props 60 and 90: Affordable Living for those 55+

CA Props 60 and 90: Affordable Living for those 55+

Are you familiar with the proposed changes with Pros 60 and 90? I talked to a few people at the Board of Realtors about the proposed changes and the funding that is needed for the issue. To fund the enhancements, they are…

Read More November 8, 2017
The Benefits of Buying/Selling a Home During the Holiday Season

The Benefits of Buying/Selling a Home During the Holiday Season

Halloween is over, which means that we are moving into the busiest holiday time of the year. Before we know it, Thanksgiving will be here and then we will be wrapping up 2017. Have you finished all of your home projects and…

Read More November 2, 2017
Is the Timing Right to Buy a New Home?

Is the Timing Right to Buy a New Home?

If you are thinking about purchasing a home, then you are probably asking the same question that we hear from so many people: is right now a good time to buy a home? No one has a solid answer for this question,…

Read More October 26, 2017
What to Do as a Real Estate Buyer in Q4 of 2017

What to Do as a Real Estate Buyer in Q4 of 2017

This week, Cale Thomas of Elite Properties Direct joins me for my weekly live video and shares some very interesting facts and information… According to The National Association of Realtors, there is an “inventory problem” with respect to home sales.  Simply put,…

Read More October 5, 2017
Low Down Payment? We Have That.

Low Down Payment? We Have That.

It is interesting to see the patterns in questions that we receive. Often, customers are asking about the same things, and a popular topic this week has been about low down payment options. So, I wanted to share a few thoughts and…

Read More August 31, 2017
Who’s in Your Network?

Who’s in Your Network?

If you are like me, then you probably don’t spend enough time talking about the connections in your network. Since I have connections in the area, I can use these opportunities to help many clients and real estate partners find the services…

Read More August 17, 2017
Free Class: Tax Deferred Exchange

Free Class: Tax Deferred Exchange

This week, I talked to Josh Pena from Exchange Resources, who joined us to discuss ways to defer your taxes when you have investment properties. Certain strategies can be used so that you can defer the tax on the gain. Is a…

Read More August 9, 2017
Why a Great Team is Essential for the Success of a Loan

Why a Great Team is Essential for the Success of a Loan

Just last week we had a client who was buying a home for the first time. This client ran into issues with another lender and came to us looking for help. We were able to close the deal within 17 days of…

Read More August 2, 2017
Conventional Lending Guidelines are Easing

Conventional Lending Guidelines are Easing

This weekend, Fannie Mae is releasing a new version of their automated underwriting software. This software really drives the vast majority of the lending that is done in the United States. So, it is a big deal that they are releasing changes…

Read More July 26, 2017
Is it a Still a Good Time to Buy Real Estate?

Is it a Still a Good Time to Buy Real Estate?

Since most real estate prices are elevated right now, many people are asking the same question: is it still a good time to buy real estate? Whether you are preparing to buy your first home or you feel like it is time…

Read More July 13, 2017
Data to Show the Strength of the Housing Market

Data to Show the Strength of the Housing Market

As the market moves up and down, many people ask me about the outlook for real estate. Will home prices and interest rates continue going up, or will things change soon? The best thing that we can do is look at trends…

Read More July 6, 2017
Are You Gambling with Your Interest Rate?

Are You Gambling with Your Interest Rate?

This week, I am sharing my mortgage tip from Vegas! My daughter is at a dance competition, and I am here to support her. As I’ve been here, I’ve thought about the way that gambling can relate to mortgages in certain situations….

Read More June 29, 2017
No Closing Costs: Is it Too Good to Be True??

No Closing Costs: Is it Too Good to Be True??

Have you seen the marketing ploys from mortgage companies that advertise no closing costs? Often, these marketing campaigns target homeowners who are interested in refinancing their mortgage. Don’t be fooled by messages that make claims that are too good to be true,…

Read More June 21, 2017
The Fed Meeting: What Does it Mean for Mortgage Rates?

The Fed Meeting: What Does it Mean for Mortgage Rates?

Yesterday was the second day of the Fed meeting, which means that it was the time when Janet Yellen announced a decision on the Fed Funds Rate. What does that mean for your mortgage? What is the Fed Meeting? Janet Yellen is…

Read More June 15, 2017
The Big 3: Short Sale, Foreclosure, and Bankruptcy

The Big 3: Short Sale, Foreclosure, and Bankruptcy

Often, we hear questions from customers who are wondering how past financial problems will impact their ability to get a mortgage. If you have recently gone through one of “the big three,” will you be able to get financing for your home?…

Read More May 24, 2017
Rent vs. Buy: What is Right for Your Family?

Rent vs. Buy: What is Right for Your Family?

As housing prices are increasing and rates are going up a little bit, many people are asking if it still makes sense to buy instead of rent. Before you make your decision, there are several factors that can help you determine the…

Read More May 17, 2017
Upgrading Your Home with the HERO or PACE Programs

Upgrading Your Home with the HERO or PACE Programs

Do you love the idea of adding energy efficient upgrades to your home and getting a tax break at the same time? The Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program is a financing tool for energy efficient upgrades for residential properties. Examples of…

Read More May 11, 2017
What Makes Mortgage Rates Go Up and Down?

What Makes Mortgage Rates Go Up and Down?

Mortgage rates are a constant topic of conversation in the industry because many people are wondering how rate changes will impact their ability to buy a home. Even though rates are commonly talked about, it feels like these conversations have peaked because…

Read More May 3, 2017
Potential Pitfalls in Your Real Estate Transaction

Potential Pitfalls in Your Real Estate Transaction

  When you are buying or selling a home, the hope is that the transaction will close without any major roadblocks or problems. But, it is common for pitfalls to come up, and we have seen some crazy things over the years….

Read More April 26, 2017
Tips for Buying a Home When the Inventory is Low

Tips for Buying a Home When the Inventory is Low

Last week we shared some statistics about the real estate market and how the inventory is affecting people who are buying or selling a home. To follow-up on this topic, today we are going to look at some of the strategies that…

Read More April 19, 2017
Real Estate Inventory: What is Really Happening in the Market?

Real Estate Inventory: What is Really Happening in the Market?

The talk in the real estate industry is that there is a shortage of inventory, making it hard for home buyers to find a property for their family. In our weekly Facebook live broadcast, we talked to Cale Thomas, a local real…

Read More April 12, 2017
Debunking Myths about FED Interest Rate Changes

Debunking Myths about FED Interest Rate Changes

We often have an increase in questions about interest rates when the Fed meets to discuss changes in the rates. Since there was a meeting last week, we have decided to address this issue to help you understand how these changes will…

Read More March 22, 2017
Will Solar Installation Affect Your Ability to Buy or Sell a House?

Will Solar Installation Affect Your Ability to Buy or Sell a House?

Residential solar power is becoming more common as people are looking for ways to improve the energy efficiency of their home. If you are buying or selling a property that has solar panels, then there are a few things that might pop…

Read More March 8, 2017
Why Many Buyers Might Be Better Off With an ARM

Why Many Buyers Might Be Better Off With an ARM

With mortgage rates at record lows, it has been rare for buyer to opt for anything other than a fixed rate loan.  However, as market conditions begin to sway and we’re seeing a slight uptick in rates, many buyers may be smart…

Read More March 2, 2017
Is a 15-year Mortgage Right for You?

Is a 15-year Mortgage Right for You?

When buying a home, some buyers have the ability and option to select a 15 year term rather than 30.  The same can be true for refinancing.  There are definitely benefits to a 15-year loan, including a lower interest rate, a shorter…

Read More February 23, 2017
Should You Worry About Interest Rates Trending Upward?

Should You Worry About Interest Rates Trending Upward?

Over the past few months, we’ve seen a general trend of mortgage rates heading in an upward direction.  Historically, this makes lenders, Realtors, and buyers a bit nervous. However, is there real reason to worry?  Perhaps not. What do increasing rates REALLY…

Read More February 16, 2017
Increasing Mortgage Rates May Have Some Positives

Increasing Mortgage Rates May Have Some Positives

Even though interest rates have been rising slightly, it isn’t necessarily bad news.   I’ve always held this opinion and so do a number of industry experts.  According to a recent article from Gina Pogol from The Mortgage Reports, increasing rates might even…

Read More February 9, 2017
A Few Thoughts on Your 2017 Mortgage Situation

A Few Thoughts on Your 2017 Mortgage Situation

We’re now in month two of 2017 (hard to believe)! If financing a home is on your to-do list for 2017, here are a few things you may want to keep in mind. Should you still consider buying a home? Buying a…

Read More February 2, 2017
Hold Off on That FHA Insurance Premium Reduction

Hold Off on That FHA Insurance Premium Reduction

A couple weeks ago, you might recall reports indicating that HUD was reducing the premiums charged for mortgage insurance by 0.25% beginning on January 27, 2017. For now, that plan has been suspended. Among fears that HUD may not have adequate reserves…

Read More January 26, 2017
Here’s What Homebuyers are Really Thinking…

Here’s What Homebuyers are Really Thinking…

Today I offer some food for thought to listing agents.  Perhaps these hints can help you to sell your next listing a bit faster! It’s very common for real estate agents to use certain “buzz” words when describing their listings.  Some time…

Read More January 19, 2017
FHA Reduces Insurance Premiums!

FHA Reduces Insurance Premiums!

The department of U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced on Monday that they will reducing the premiums charged on FHA insured mortgages by a quarter of a percent (.25%). HUD secretary Julian Castro stated that four years of growth and the…

Read More January 12, 2017
How to Know When It’s Time to Refi?

How to Know When It’s Time to Refi?

We’ve been talking about how great interest rates are for a few years now and when rates are low, there’s always that thought that maybe it would be advantageous to refinance the house. So how do you know if a refi actually…

Read More January 5, 2017
6 Real Estate Predictions for 2017

6 Real Estate Predictions for 2017

With the New Year upon us and a new president being ushered in about 3 weeks, many are wondering what might be in store for the Real Estate market in 2017. Here are some bold predictions based on the thoughts and opinions…

Read More December 29, 2016
Will Rising Mortgage Rates Impact Housing?

Will Rising Mortgage Rates Impact Housing?

In case you haven’t noticed, mortgage rates are now at the highest level in two years and the Federal Reserve just raised rates on Wednesday. Even before the Fed’s move, the average rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage went up from record…

Read More December 15, 2016
Loan Limits Increase for 2017

Loan Limits Increase for 2017

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have announced an increase in the maximum conforming loan limit for 2017.  This is big news since it is the first such increase since 2006. Beginning on January 1, 2017, the new conforming loan limit for a…

Read More December 8, 2016
Possible Real Estate Trends for 2017

Possible Real Estate Trends for 2017

As 2017 is quickly approaching, many people might be wondering what they can expect to see in the real estate market for the upcoming year. A recent article in The Fiscal Times outlined several real estate trends the experts predict for the…

Read More December 1, 2016
What’s in Store for the Mortgage Industry Post-Election

What’s in Store for the Mortgage Industry Post-Election

There will be numerous mortgage and housing related issues that President-elect Donald Trump will face once he takes office in January. According to National Mortgage News, the following is a synopsis of some of these important issues that will impact the mortgage…

Read More November 10, 2016
California Association of Realtors 2017 Market Forecast

California Association of Realtors 2017 Market Forecast

According the 2017 California Housing Market Forecast, California’s housing market will post a nominal increase in 2017 as supply shortages and affordability constraints hamper market activity. The California Association of Realtors (CAR) forecasts a modest increase in existing home sales next year,…

Read More October 13, 2016
Fed Doesn’t Raise Rates…  For Now

Fed Doesn’t Raise Rates… For Now

On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve decided that a stagnant unemployment rate is the main reason to hold off on an interest rate hike, according to USA Today reporter Paul Davidson. Janet Yellen, the Fed Chair explained to reporters that despite having solid…

Read More September 22, 2016
California Senate Bill 1150 Approved

California Senate Bill 1150 Approved

Earlier this week, California’s Senate approved Senate Bill 1150, a new legislation designed to protect widows, widowers, and other heirs from unnecessary foreclosures. Called the Homeowner Survivor Bill of Rights, SBOR was approved by the Senate with 23 votes for it, and…

Read More August 25, 2016
CFPB to Offer New Rules for Troubled Borrowers

CFPB to Offer New Rules for Troubled Borrowers

Due to the financial crisis during the last decade, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) was created to protect home owners. Over the last several years, the CFPB has introduced various rules to help troubled borrowers, and last week, it updated additional…

Read More August 11, 2016
Presidential Candidates Policies on Housing and Finance Factors in Voting

Presidential Candidates Policies on Housing and Finance Factors in Voting

With the presidential election less than five months away, one of the topics voters feel is highly important is the candidate’s policies on housing and finance. According to the results of a survey conducted for LoanDepot, 21% of Americans who responded to…

Read More June 23, 2016
Having that College Degree is an Advantage when it comes to Owning a Home

Having that College Degree is an Advantage when it comes to Owning a Home

A recent article in the National Mortgage News by Jacob Passy brings to light how being well-educated today has never been more vital when it comes to being a homeowner. According to Passy, First American Financial Corp issued a report citing the…

Read More May 12, 2016
How are Lenders Performing with TRID?

How are Lenders Performing with TRID?

A recent survey conducted by TD Bank’s Mortgage Service Index polled over 1,300 American homeowners over the past ten years who took out a home mortgage and found that even with the new TRID rule, home buyers reported a positive mortgage experience….

Read More April 28, 2016
4 Reasons to Be Excited About the Housing Market

4 Reasons to Be Excited About the Housing Market

Things are looking up in the housing market these days, for a number of reasons!  Here are a few factors that may indicate the housing marketing could continue in a strong and stable direction for a while.   Low Interest Rates Even…

Read More March 24, 2016
FED Leaves Rates Unchanged…  For Now

FED Leaves Rates Unchanged… For Now

Federal Reserve Board chairman, Janet Yellen, made her March statement yesterday, announcing that the FED would not be raising rates at this time. However, she also pointed out that ongoing economic growth and labor improvement could push inflation upward over the next…

Read More March 17, 2016
Great Opportunities Exist While Rates are Low

Great Opportunities Exist While Rates are Low

According to a recent article from CNBC, close to seven million homeowners aren’t taking advantage of the low mortgage rates and refinancing. Real Estate reporter Diana Olick explained that after the Federal Reserve raised its target interest rate in early December, it…

Read More March 10, 2016
Home Prices are Up, Rates are Down

Home Prices are Up, Rates are Down

Recent housing reports have indicated that across the county, housing prices are trending upward. The S&P/Case-Shiller 20-City Home Price Index, which is an index measuring home prices in 20 major metropolitan markets in the United States, rose 5.7% in December.  While this…

Read More March 3, 2016
Mortgage Application Volume Rebounds and Increases

Mortgage Application Volume Rebounds and Increases

Those in the mortgage industry concerned about the sharp drop in mortgage activity over the holiday season don’t have to worry. According to a recent article by Diana Olick from CNBC and the Mortgage Bankers Association, mortgage application volume increased 21.3% last…

Read More January 14, 2016
More on the Federal Reserve Rate Increase

More on the Federal Reserve Rate Increase

As I am sure you know by now, the Federal Reserve approved a quarter-point increase in its target funds rate on Wednesday, December 16. This was expected. The decision was given approval from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) and marks the…

Read More December 24, 2015
How Will the Fed Rate Hike Affect Your Wallet

How Will the Fed Rate Hike Affect Your Wallet

By now, you’ve probably heard that the Federal Reserve Board did raise the prime lending rate by .25% on December 16, marketing the first such hike since 2006.  What exactly will this mean for you and your budget?  Let’s examine a few…

Read More December 17, 2015
Information About Second Mortgages

Information About Second Mortgages

In my last blog article, I provided information on Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOC).  Sometimes, however, that can be referred to by a different name.  Many homeowners have heard the term “second mortgage,” but not everyone knows exactly what it is…

Read More November 12, 2015
The Investment Value of Your Primary Residence

The Investment Value of Your Primary Residence

  For this week, I am going to do something that I really don’t do and that is an opinion piece. We are going on 8-10 years since the significant fallout from real estate. And, more and more, I am starting to…

Read More October 22, 2015
Check Out My Fully Vetted Yellow Pages

Check Out My Fully Vetted Yellow Pages

One thing that I take very seriously is the effort I make to stay connected to other professionals within my service areas.  This means getting to know other business owners on a personal level, understanding their businesses, and vetting service providers that…

Read More September 3, 2015
Supreme Court Ruling May Boost Mortgage Demand

Supreme Court Ruling May Boost Mortgage Demand

According to a recent article by Bonnie Sinnock, the Supreme Court’s decision that makes same-sex marriage legal across the nation might boost mortgage demand as it will provide gay and lesbian couples with more financing opportunities and stronger joint property rights. Shoshana…

Read More July 8, 2015
Is a HELOC Cash Crunch on the Way?

Is a HELOC Cash Crunch on the Way?

During the height of the real estate bubble of 2004-2007, may homeowners opened a HELOC (home equity line of credit). This was a popular way for homeowners to tap into their home equity to fund purchases, including home improvements and education expenses….

Read More June 25, 2015
TRID Changes Postponed

TRID Changes Postponed

Many of you are probably already familiar with the fact the changes are on the horizon with respect to real estate and lending disclosures. TRID (TILA, RESPA Integrated Disclosure) was initially targeted to go into effect on August 1, 2015 but has…

Read More June 17, 2015
Freddie Mac Releases Mortgage Rate Forecast for 2016

Freddie Mac Releases Mortgage Rate Forecast for 2016

Government-owned Freddie Mac recently issued its mortgage rate forecast for 2016. This forecast comes from Freddie Mac’s broader report titled, “May 2015 U.S. Economic and Housing Market Outlook.” The report explains that according to Freddie Mac’s estimation, the average rate for a…

Read More May 28, 2015
Freddie Mac Suggests 2015 Could be a Great Year

Freddie Mac Suggests 2015 Could be a Great Year

According to Freddie Mac, 2015 could be the best year for home sales and new home construction since 2007, which is great news for all involved in the mortgage industry. Deputy Chief Economist Len Kiefer recently said, “This month kicks off the…

Read More March 26, 2015
Why is This Spring a Great Time to Buy a Home?

Why is This Spring a Great Time to Buy a Home?

Spring is in the air and it is definitely a great time to think about purchasing a home and stop paying rent. Lawrence Yun, the chief economist at the National Association of Realtors recently said, “The cost of renting is really high…

Read More March 12, 2015
Refinancing Your Home Still a Great Deal

Refinancing Your Home Still a Great Deal

Refinancing your home is always a big financial decision. And, with the mortgage rates still very low, if you’re a homeowner who has good credit and a steady job, it could be an excellent time to seriously think about refinancing. According to…

Read More February 26, 2015
Money Saving Tips to Consider

Money Saving Tips to Consider

Saving money has continually been something that we would all love to do, but unfortunately, it just doesn’t seem to be that easy. A recent article by Michael Camacho gives individuals some insight on how to go about saving that hard-earned money…

Read More January 22, 2015
Now is a Great Time to Refinance

Now is a Great Time to Refinance

Even though most Americans probably aren’t thinking about refinancing or buying a home during to the holidays, the next few weeks may in fact be a great time to do so. According to Gibran Nicholas, chairman of CMPS Institute, an organization that…

Read More December 4, 2014
Important News About HOAs and Foreclosures

Important News About HOAs and Foreclosures

There is some disturbing news out of Nevada concerning homeowners associations (HOAs) and foreclosures. According to a recent article in Mortgage News Daily, the Nevada Supreme Court has upheld a law which allows an HOA to foreclose on homes ahead of first…

Read More October 16, 2014
Mortgage News Network Set to Launch

Mortgage News Network Set to Launch

In the highly competitive mortgage industry, there can never be too many places to get information that may help give you the edge and increase your knowledge. Starting Monday, October 13, Mortgage News Network, an online-exclusive video resource offering programming for professionals…

Read More October 9, 2014
Should I Sell My Own Home?

Should I Sell My Own Home?

If you or someone you know is debating on selling a home as “For Sale By Owner”, think long and hard before making this decision.  You could be walking into a legal and financial nightmare. Take a quick look at the video…

Read More October 2, 2014
Foreclosures Up?  Opportunities for Investors?

Foreclosures Up? Opportunities for Investors?

This week there was news that more foreclosed homes are on the market again in August.  The cause of this activity is homes that went through a foreclosure years ago and banks are beginning to release more of this inventory into the…

Read More September 18, 2014
Reasons Behind Decrease in Mortgage Originations

Reasons Behind Decrease in Mortgage Originations

According to a recent post by Freddie Mac analysts, home buyers are not taking advantage of lower interest rates, as indicated by a decrease in mortgage originations.   These analysts identified three main factors for this decrease. The first reason is that the…

Read More August 28, 2014
The Importance of Knowing Your Credit Score

The Importance of Knowing Your Credit Score

Every potential home buyer knows the importance credit scores play in getting a good interest rate on a mortgage or qualifying for a mortgage at all. Knowing your credit score is vital to understanding where you stand in getting a mortgage with…

Read More August 21, 2014
Is Paying off Your Mortgage a Good Idea?

Is Paying off Your Mortgage a Good Idea?

With all of the financial responsibilities most people have, that elusive idea or dream of having financial freedom is something everyone continually thinks about. The majority of homeowners know that their mortgage is a major factor that is preventing them from this…

Read More August 14, 2014
Where is the Housing Market Headed?

Where is the Housing Market Headed?

I get asked this question quite often and I want to provide you with my opinion as to where the housing market is headed in the coming months. Take a quick look at the video below and feel free to contact me…

Read More August 7, 2014
Foreclosure Scams are Still Causing Problems

Foreclosure Scams are Still Causing Problems

Unfortunately, many homeowners are still struggling with the possibility of foreclosure. And, where there are foreclosures, there are foreclosure modification scams. It is imperative to understand that these scams can only lead to more stress and problems for the homeowners and if…

Read More July 9, 2014
What are Your Rights Concerning a Solar Energy System and Your HOA?

What are Your Rights Concerning a Solar Energy System and Your HOA?

Many homeowners live in a neighborhood where they have homeowners’ associations, also know as HOAs. There can be many positives with an HOA, but on the other hand, there can also be some restrictions as to what a homeowner can do with…

Read More June 12, 2014
The Spring Selling and Buying Season is Here

The Spring Selling and Buying Season is Here

It definitely appears that the “Spring Selling Season” may have finally arrived. According to the National Home Sales Snapshot, which was released by DataQuick, existing home sales improved for the third time in the past five weeks, including a 1.6% increase in…

Read More April 10, 2014
The Importance of Estate Planning

The Importance of Estate Planning

One decision that most homeowners would rather not think about deals with estate planning. But we all must realize how important it is to protect, preserve, and manage your estate if you become incapacitated or pass away. When is the right time…

Read More March 13, 2014
Jobs Reports and Interest Rates

Jobs Reports and Interest Rates

Economic reports and data are released on a daily basis.  Pending expectations for these reports will often dictate market conditions and could impact interest rates.  Working with a mortgage lender who closely monitors these reports can be critical if you are looking…

Read More March 4, 2014
Mortgage Tips for 2014

Mortgage Tips for 2014

If you are in the market to become a homeowner, it is very important to make sure you are prepared to act quickly when you find that ‘perfect’ home. And, with mortgage rates still at attractive rates, it is even more vital…

Read More February 27, 2014
Continued Decline in Mortgage Delinquencies a Positive for Housing Market

Continued Decline in Mortgage Delinquencies a Positive for Housing Market

More great news in the mortgage industry came out this past week as the mortgage delinquency rate hit the lowest in five years and actually dropped below 4% for the first time since 2008! TransUnion’s latest ‘mortgage delinquency report’ said that the…

Read More February 20, 2014
Tax Time and Home Mortgage Points

Tax Time and Home Mortgage Points

Like it or not, it’s tax time again. And, in order to make sure things go as planned, if you purchased or refinanced a home in 2013 you should get a copy of your HUD to your CPA.  (If you closed your…

Read More February 13, 2014
Important Home Equity Line of Credit Information

Important Home Equity Line of Credit Information

Back in 2005, there was a plethora of Home Equity Line Of Credits (HELOC) made. And, with many of these still around and close to resetting, some borrowers may no longer be able to afford these credit lines when they are required…

Read More February 6, 2014
Is a Reverse Mortgage a Good Option?

Is a Reverse Mortgage a Good Option?

One major conversation in the mortgage market is the reverse mortgage and its pros/cons. A reverse mortgage is a special type of home loan that lets you convert a portion of your home’s equity into cash. The equity that you built up…

Read More January 23, 2014
Signs Continue to Show Improvement in Housing Market

Signs Continue to Show Improvement in Housing Market

As 2014 begins, there are signs of continued improvement in the housing market. Various reports focusing on a lower number of delinquencies, an increase in home construction, and a lower number of loan modifications is great news on the mortgage front. A…

Read More January 16, 2014
Be Careful of Mortgage Scams

Be Careful of Mortgage Scams

Due to the economy’s financial status and the housing market that is slowly recovering, home buyers need to be cautious of the possibility of various mortgage scams currently out there. A recent article from Polyana da Costa from Scripps Howard News Service…

Read More January 9, 2014
What’s In Store for the 2014 Housing Market

What’s In Store for the 2014 Housing Market

Many people in the housing industry are wondering what 2014 will be like after a very eventful 2013. And, according to a recent article in the USA Today, here is what is expected in the upcoming year. Probably the #1 main topic…

Read More January 2, 2014
Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac Raising Fees

Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac Raising Fees

Potential home buyers who do not have the money for a big down payment and with less than perfect credit scores may be facing an increase in mortgage costs starting next spring. According to a few different articles by Nick Timiraos, mortgage…

Read More December 26, 2013
What Is Single Payment Mortgage Insurance and Is It Right for You?

What Is Single Payment Mortgage Insurance and Is It Right for You?

Home owners are always looking for a way to shrink their monthly mortgage payment, and one way that this can be done is to make a single , upfront purchase on your mortgage insurance. By doing this, the home owner would not…

Read More December 19, 2013
FHA Loan Limits Decrease in 2014

FHA Loan Limits Decrease in 2014

According to a recent report, the Department of Housing and Urban Development has just released the updated loan limits for Federal Housing Administration backed loans. Beginning January 1, 2014, the national maximum loan limit for FHA financing will be reduced, as specified…

Read More December 12, 2013
The Lowdown on the New CFPB’s “Know Before You Owe” Forms

The Lowdown on the New CFPB’s “Know Before You Owe” Forms

Last week I wrote about the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new “Know Before You Owe” mortgage forms which will replace the current ones. Here, according to reporter James Linbach, is a closer look at the forms and their benefits. Form #1: The Loan…

Read More December 5, 2013
New Mortgage Disclosure Forms Will Allow Better Understanding For Consumers

New Mortgage Disclosure Forms Will Allow Better Understanding For Consumers

Many homebuyers in the past have had a difficult time understanding the jargon and information included in mortgage disclosure forms. However, that will hopefully soon end due to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new “Know Before You Owe” mortgage forms that will…

Read More November 27, 2013
FNC Index Shows Biggest Home Price Gains Since Housing Market Debacle

FNC Index Shows Biggest Home Price Gains Since Housing Market Debacle

According to a recent report by FNC, the news continues to improve for the housing market. FNC’s Residential Price Index (RPI) confirms both the continuation of the better than year-long housing price gains and that the price performance is beginning to moderate….

Read More November 21, 2013
5 Tips to Help You in the Home Buying Process

5 Tips to Help You in the Home Buying Process

One of the most important and valuable parts of the home buying process is the relationship between the buyer and the mortgage lender.  While the lender’s knowledge can make a huge difference, it is also important for the buyer to be as educated…

Read More November 14, 2013
New Mortgage Rules Going Into Effect in January

New Mortgage Rules Going Into Effect in January

In case you didn’t know, there are some new mortgage rules that will go into effect on January 1, 2014. These “new” mortgage rules, according to Tim Grant of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, are meant to avoid a repeat of the housing and…

Read More November 7, 2013
Why Now May Be a Great Time to Buy a Home

Why Now May Be a Great Time to Buy a Home

According to a recent article by Gina Ragusa, the combination of slowly rising mortgage rates, the prices of homes, and the easing mortgage requirements may be creating a perfect time for you to purchase that home you have been thinking about. Ragusa…

Read More October 30, 2013
Assessed Values Rise on Homes in Inland Area

Assessed Values Rise on Homes in Inland Area

A recent article by Debra Gruszecki of The Press Enterprise focused on some good news for Southern California homeowners showing property values on the rise. According to the 2013-14 California State Board of Equalization report, which is used to calculate property taxes,…

Read More October 24, 2013
Lingering Affects of the Government Shutdown

Lingering Affects of the Government Shutdown

Many involved in the real estate industry have no doubt been paying a lot of attention to the government shutdown and how it is affecting the mortgage business. In a recent article by Diana Olick of CNBC, she says that as negotiations to…

Read More October 17, 2013
More Information on How the Government Shutdown may Affect You

More Information on How the Government Shutdown may Affect You

On the heels of last week’s government shutdown, James R. Hood, Consumer Affairs founder and editor asks the question, “Does it really matter if the feds stay home?” The first week , the shutdown of the federal government, according to Hood, wasn’t…

Read More October 10, 2013
New Rules in FHA Short Sales

New Rules in FHA Short Sales

In a recent story from Inman News, there are new rules that took effect on October 1, 2013 that will now prohibit brokers and agents from representing both buyers and sellers in Federal Housing Administration (FHA) short sales. In July, the Department…

Read More October 4, 2013
How will Governement Shutdown Affect the Mortgage Industry?

How will Governement Shutdown Affect the Mortgage Industry?

The possibility of a government shutdown as of October 1, 2013 could definitely have ramifications in the mortgage industry. Terry Clemans, executive director of the National Consumer Reporting Association (NCRA) was recently quoted as saying, “With such a huge amount of mortgage…

Read More September 26, 2013
Finding a Home Using the New Schools Search Tool

Finding a Home Using the New Schools Search Tool

When purchasing a home, one of the most important factors a family with children considers is the quality of the elementary, middle, or high school the kids will be attending. According to a recent article in National Mortgage Professional Magazine, Zillow Inc….

Read More September 19, 2013
Housing Recovery and Rising Mortgage Rates

Housing Recovery and Rising Mortgage Rates

Many potential homebuyers and many people in the mortgage industry are wondering how the rising mortgage rates will affect the housing recovery. In a recent article by Dakin Campbell, he suggests that there isn’t a need to worry. Chief Financial Officer Tom Sloan of…

Read More September 12, 2013
Qualification Rules for Home Loans Relaxed by Regulators

Qualification Rules for Home Loans Relaxed by Regulators

According to a recent article in the Washington Post by Danielle Douglas, Federal regulators have “softened” a proposed rule that would require banks to keep a stake in home loans that they parcel out to investors, for fear that the policy would…

Read More September 5, 2013
FHA Back to Work – Extenuating Circumstances Program

FHA Back to Work – Extenuating Circumstances Program

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently published Mortgagee Letter 2013-26 under the subject “Back to Work–Extenuating Circumstances” for all FHA-Approved Mortgages. This new ML explains that FHA is continuing its commitment to “fully” evaluate borrowers who have experienced periods…

Read More August 28, 2013
The Difference Between a Pre-Approval and a Pre-Qualification

The Difference Between a Pre-Approval and a Pre-Qualification

If you are in the market and serious about purchasing a home, one of the most important things you can do speak with a lender and get pre-approved. By doing this, it will definitely benefit all of the parties involved because it…

Read More August 21, 2013
Eminent Domain Controversy

Eminent Domain Controversy

An interesting controversy in the mortgage industry made headlines last week as the mayor of Richmond, California, Gayle McLaughlin, invoked eminent domain in an effort to save underwater homeowners from foreclosure. McLaughlin announced and immediately defended a plan to seize underwater mortgages…

Read More August 14, 2013
President Obama Explains Mortgage Reform

President Obama Explains Mortgage Reform

In Phoenix on Tuesday, President Barack Obama explained that the need for new efforts to support American homeowners, and he also suggested the closing of government-backed mortgage finance companies to limit the risk to “public money.” Phoenix was one of the worst…

Read More August 7, 2013
Don’t Forget About the Extra Costs of Owning a Home

Don’t Forget About the Extra Costs of Owning a Home

With mortgage rates still at a great percentage to purchase that dream home of yours, you still need to be prepared for the “true” cost of owning a home. These are specific items that you need to be aware of which will…

Read More July 31, 2013
Even with Mortgage Rates Rising, No Need to Panic

Even with Mortgage Rates Rising, No Need to Panic

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke made comments this past week in which he hinted that the Fed may begin backing off its monthly, multibillion-dollar bond buying measure. And, according to a recent article by Casey Bond, this has a plethora of potential…

Read More July 24, 2013
Your Mortgage Options if You are Going Through a Divorce

Your Mortgage Options if You are Going Through a Divorce

Everyone knows that going through a divorce can be a very stressful and traumatic situation. One of the most difficult obstacles to deal with during this time is the home that you and your spouse bought while you were married. Most likely when…

Read More July 18, 2013
With Rates Rising, Does Buying or Refinancing Make Sense?

With Rates Rising, Does Buying or Refinancing Make Sense?

If you have been keeping up on the recent mortgage news, there is no doubt that you know mortgage rates are on the rise. This news is definitely concerning to possible homebuyers and homeowners who are thinking about refinancing. The big question…

Read More July 11, 2013
More Info on Getting Approved for that Home Loan

More Info on Getting Approved for that Home Loan

If you are seriously looking into purchasing a home, home ownership will likely mean getting approved for a home loan. Many would-be home buyers find this process quite stressful and confusing, so it is essential that you are prepared for what is…

Read More July 3, 2013
Increase in Interest Rates Will Impact Housing Market

Increase in Interest Rates Will Impact Housing Market

When it comes to interest rates, we are facing both good news and bad news. The bad news is that yes, rates have been volatile lately. They’ve been going up since May 3 – sometimes jumping as much as .25% in a…

Read More June 27, 2013
Owning a Home Still Better Than Renting

Owning a Home Still Better Than Renting

Many potential homebuyers often are faced with the dilemma of buying vs renting.  According to a recent article by Nick Timiraos of the Wall Street Journal, purchasing a home is still a better deal than renting in every major United States housing…

Read More June 20, 2013
6 Tips for Getting Your Offer Accepted

6 Tips for Getting Your Offer Accepted

Most of you probably know that the inventory levels of available housing across the nation are extremely low. And with this low inventory,  there is fierce competition brewing between homebuyers who are struggling to get their offers accepted. If you are in a…

Read More June 13, 2013
Benefits of VA Loans

Benefits of VA Loans

VA guaranteed home loans benefit Veterans because they do not need to make a down payment and there is no upper limit or required cap on the income of the borrower. Without a down payment as security against foreclosure, lenders receive what…

Read More June 5, 2013
3 Results of Low Mortgage Rates

3 Results of Low Mortgage Rates

It’s a well known fact that low mortgage rates are vital to the housing market as they make purchasing a home more affordable and also make refinancing more attractive for homeowners. But did you realize that low mortgage rates have many other…

Read More May 23, 2013
Mortgage Rules to Live By

Mortgage Rules to Live By

With mortgage rates still at incredible lows and the housing market continuing to pick up, many individuals are seriously considering a home purchase. If you find yourself in this position, it is good to remember that making the decision to buy will…

Read More May 16, 2013
Information for Homeowners Paying off Their Mortgage

Information for Homeowners Paying off Their Mortgage

With most of the talk in the mortgage business focusing on low interest rates and the increase in the housing market, some of you may be close to that wonderful day of actually paying off your mortgage. According to Jann Seal, here…

Read More May 10, 2013
Mortgage Trends for Spring

Mortgage Trends for Spring

For the past several years, homeowners have seen their houses losing value. However, this is definitely starting to change as low mortgage rates continue and home prices are gaining value. With this happening, an increase in the number of buyers is expected…

Read More May 2, 2013
New Information on Loans With Less Than 20% Down

New Information on Loans With Less Than 20% Down

There is more proof that the housing market is continuing to brighten as more home buyers are discovering that they can get conventional loans with less than a 20% down payment. According to a recent article in USA Today, the only way…

Read More April 18, 2013
Where are Those Mortgage Rates Going in 2013?

Where are Those Mortgage Rates Going in 2013?

Due to the housing market showing definite signs of rejuvenation, numerous experts agree that the coming spring homebuying season could be a busy one for both sellers and buyers. Most buyers and sellers are anxious to know where the mortgage rates are going…

Read More February 13, 2013
Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act Extension

Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act Extension

Underwater homeowners were given good news this week as Congress included an extension of the ‘Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act.’ This Act was scheduled to expire on December 31, 2012, but was extended in the American Taxpayer Relief Act until December 31,…

Read More January 16, 2013
Rising Equity for Homeowners in 2013

Rising Equity for Homeowners in 2013

As 2013 begins, one of the most encouraging facts in the mortgage business is that homeowner’s equity is growing! A homeowner’s equity is defined as the difference between the market value of the house and the amount of mortgage debt it is…

Read More January 9, 2013
Expansion of Government Refinance Program

Expansion of Government Refinance Program

According to several sources, the US government is seriously looking into expanding its mortgage refinancing program that would now include borrowers whose mortgages aren’t backed by the government and who are liable to pay more than what their home is worth. Such…

Read More January 3, 2013
Money Saving Tips for 2013

Money Saving Tips for 2013

As 2013 begins next week, many of you will be making those annual New Year’s resolutions. Typically, keeping true to these resolutions is very difficult, especially when it comes to your basic finances.  These “financial” resolutions, however, can definitely help you save…

Read More December 27, 2012
New Mortgage Database

New Mortgage Database

In a move to stay on top of the rapid changing world of technology, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) have collectively agreed to produce a National Mortgage Database containing comprehensive mortgage loan information. “The…

Read More December 19, 2012
HARP Update

HARP Update

Since it began in 2009, more than 1.7 million households labeled “underwater” have made use of the government’s Home Affordable Refinance Program, also known as HARP, and this program is successfully stimulating the U.S. housing market. HARP was launched to give homeowners…

Read More December 12, 2012
Proposed Changes with FHA in 2013

Proposed Changes with FHA in 2013

The Federal Housing Administration is proposing some changes to its program rules that might impact or affect some loan applicants in 2013. These are designed improve revenue flows to the agency and cut back on losses.  Although none of these appear to…

Read More December 4, 2012
Housing Market Contiues to Go in Right Direction

Housing Market Contiues to Go in Right Direction

According to two reports this week, economists are saying the news is continuing to look upbeat in the world of real estate! The lowest mortgage rates in history have definitely helped keep sales of previously owned US homes close to a two-year high…

Read More November 29, 2012
Helping out the Homebuyer

Helping out the Homebuyer

As often as we work with new home buyers, we know that the process can be quite intimidating for them. Since buying a home and taking out a mortgage is probably the biggest financial decision buyers will make in their lives, it’s…

Read More November 14, 2012
What the Re-election Means to the Mortgage World

What the Re-election Means to the Mortgage World

It’s Official! President Barack Obama has been re-elected. Last week,  I wrote about what you might expect in the mortgage world depending on which candidate won the election. Now that the election has been decided, here is some more “news” on what…

Read More November 7, 2012
5 Reasons Why Now May Be a Once In a Lifetime Chance to Buy a Home

5 Reasons Why Now May Be a Once In a Lifetime Chance to Buy a Home

In almost every major U.S. housing market today, it has become cheaper to buy than rent.  While there is no guarantee that home prices will not continue to drop and clearly we have not yet escaped our economic downturn, there are a…

Read More September 20, 2012
FHA May Waive Waiting Period

FHA May Waive Waiting Period

 Waiting Period Waived? The FHA is contemplating new, looser mortgage guidelines that would waive its standard “waiting period” after a significant derogatory credit event. Home buyers with recent bankruptcy, foreclosure or short sale may be cleared to buy homes immediately. The Federal…

Read More September 12, 2012
End of Summer Likely to Produce a Flux of Short Sales

End of Summer Likely to Produce a Flux of Short Sales

Finance and housing specialists are anticipating the summer and fall months are likely to produce a flux of short sales. The multitude of short sales comes as more banks choose a portion of what they are owed rather than have a property go…

Read More August 15, 2012
Unintended Consequences

Unintended Consequences

Over the past several years we have seen the regulators scrambling to “fix” the US housing market with all sorts of plans and stimulus and new regulations. It all started in 2008 when then Fed chairman, Hank Paulson (former Goldman Sachs Chief),…

Read More February 15, 2012
Forget the Appraisal!  Lower Your Payment Now!

Forget the Appraisal! Lower Your Payment Now!

Our government has rolled out numerous programs to attempt to help home owners through the extremely difficult times we have seen in real estate over the past couple years.  The acronyms of these programs have, in many cases, have become the alphabet…

Read More October 26, 2011
A New Way To Think About Real Estate?

A New Way To Think About Real Estate?

Actually this wouldn’t be a new way to think about real estate, this would be going back a generation or two.  NOT EVERY REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION HAS TO BE A SHORT TERM INVESTMENT PLAY. One of the many things that went wrong…

Read More September 9, 2011
US Credit Rating Downgraded

US Credit Rating Downgraded

This is the headline we have all been reading this morning and from over the weekend.  My phone and email have been clogged this morning with many questions about what this will mean in the mortgage world. A big part of what…

Read More August 9, 2011
A Rant

A Rant

It took our government three years to figure out (or at least publish) what the rest of us figured out two to three years ago.  The housing crisis we have been in for years now would never have been possible without the…

Read More April 15, 2011
Temecula, Murrieta, San Diego Mortgage Brokers

Temecula, Murrieta, San Diego Mortgage Brokers

Mortgage brokers have been the punching bag for the mortgage business for much of the past several years.  Some brokers created bad blood back in the subprime days of the early and mid-2000’s.  These risky loans were originated almost exclusively through brokers…

Read More March 4, 2011
Temecula, Murrieta, and San Diego Mortgage Loans:  Banks are Still Lending!

Temecula, Murrieta, and San Diego Mortgage Loans: Banks are Still Lending!

You see it almost every day in the financial news, articles talking about how banks aren’t lending money.  While this is largely true, it absolutely does NOT mean mortgage lending isn’t happening. Since 2008 banks have been on lock down with lending…

Read More March 4, 2011
Looking Forward in 2011

Looking Forward in 2011

A new year is upon us, the start of the second decade of the “new” millennium.  That’s hard to believe. 2011 starts with many questions that will only be answered as the days pass.  Questions such as:  Is the economy getting back…

Read More January 2, 2011

Franklin Loan Center | NMLS 237653
Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, 4131316
http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/entitydetails.aspx/COMPANY/237653
For questions or concerns please email info@franklinlc.com