There are so many reasons to love our pets including their unconditional love and loyalty. In my home I have always valued the bond my pups have had with my children. My babies are their babies, too.

The very first step on qualifying a mortgage loan applicant is initially have a phone interview. Buying a home is the largest investment for most hard-working people and consumers may think everything can be done online without any human contact. Many steps in the mortgage process can be done via electronic communication by email or text. However, the most important step in the mortgage process is the initial phone interview between the MLO and the borrower. We will cover the phone interview more in depth and detail on a later module. In this thread, I like to limit the topic of soft versus hard credit pull and how the qualifying credit score for a mortgage is determined. Unless the borrower needs to get qualified and pre-approved NOW and right NOW, I normally will do a soft credit pull. Initially, my loan officers and I normally do a single bureau soft pull. A soft pull will not show on your credit report as a credit inquiry and it will not drop your credit scores. From there, the mortgage loan applicant and I will go over the credit tradelines on the credit report. Things I look out for is credit disputes, credit utilization ratio, potential score improvements, errors in credit report, and prepare to maximize the borrower’s credit scores to get the best rate and terms on the mortgage loan. Once the mortgage loan applicant is credit and income ready and is ready to go shopping for a home, I then run a tri-merge credit report. Lenders use the middle credit score of a tri-merge credit report to determine the qualifying credit score for a mortgage. Please read the attached guide on tri-merge credit report to determine mortgage credit score:

Tri-Merge Credit Report to Determine Mortgage Credit Score

Mortgage Market Alert: Inflation, Rates, and Housing News for June 26, 2026

By GCA Forums News Desk | Powered by Gustan Cho Associates | Friday, June. This week was tough for homebuyers. Mortgage rates remain near 6.5%, inflation continues to rise, new home sales are dropping, and a major housing bill is stuck because of political disagreements.

Mortgage market update for June 26, 2026: Rates are steady near 6.5%, oil prices are falling, inflation remains high, new-home sales are dropping, and housing policies are on hold.

There is a bright spot: more sellers are lowering prices, which has helped bring oil prices down. Still, the housing market is difficult. Buyers struggle with rising costs, sellers adjust, and lenders change their approach as conditions change.

Mortgage Rates Still Providing No Relief to Homebuyers

To keep the report accurate, two important updates were made. Oil prices dropped sharply on Friday after a rough week, while rumors of a Dow “crash” are still unconfirmed. Both are now marked as trends to watch rather than confirmed events.

The 30-Year Fixed Rate Still Hovering @ 6.5%

According to recent data from Freddie Mac, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.49%, and the 15-year fixed rate is 5.84%. Even though rates seem steady, housing is still too expensive for most. Today’s buyers are paying much higher monthly payments than those who bought when rates were lower.

The federal mortgage rate is influenced not just by Federal Reserve decisions. Other factors include mortgage-backed securities, government bond returns, inflation reports, global energy prices, and investor confidence.

The Fed Held Its Ground, but Inflation is Still the Problem

The Fed chose to keep its main interest rate between 3.50% and 3.75% this month. The Fed also said inflation is still too high and is caused by rising energy prices.

This means that until inflation is controlled, mortgage rates probably won’t fall for long. If high inflation continues, borrowers should not expect relief soon.

A New Warning to Borrowers and Homeowners

Fed’s Preferred Inflation Index Goes Up

The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index, an important measure of inflation, rose 4.1% compared to last May. This is bad news for the mortgage market. Inflation tightens household budgets and raises yields, which then push mortgage rates higher. For borrowers, these trends are worrying.

The Consumer Price Index Climbed 4.2% Over the Past Year

The Consumer Price Index rose 4.2% over the past year. Energy costs jumped 23.5%, and food prices also increased. With living costs going up, even families with steady incomes find it hard to save for a home because essentials like fuel, food, utilities, insurance, and housing take up more of their budgets.

Single-family homes showed a 7.3% decrease in sales, to a monthly adjusted annual rate of 580,000. The median cost of new construction reached $424,900 with a 10.3-month supply.

Not all builders are having trouble, but many say buyers are very focused on payment details. In many places, builders may need to offer incentives, lower rates, price cuts, or help with closing costs. These strategies are becoming necessary to keep sales going.

National Listing Prices are Declining, But Local Markets are not Aligned

The national average listing price fell to $429,500, down 2.4% from last year. As prices drop and homes become more affordable, sales are increasing, and homes are selling faster.

This does not mean home prices are crashing. Some areas still have strong demand and low supply, while others with more homes see prices drop. Buyers should look at local details like inventory, property type, taxes, insurance, and jobs instead of just national reports.

Mortgage Lending Is Choppy, Not Dead

Purchase Activity Took a Weekly Hit

During the short holiday week ending June 19, mortgage applications to buy homes fell 10.1% from the previous week. Refinance applications also dropped. But compared to last year, purchase applications rose 16.5% and refinances jumped 29.7%. These numbers show buyers react quickly to rate changes, but demand is still strong.

The tough mortgage market challenges everyone—lenders, builders, agents, and buyers. Still, people with steady jobs, low debt, good assets, and patience can find chances now.

A mortgage application shows the full picture: besides credit scores, lenders look at debt-to-income ratio, steady income, job history, assets, property condition, and loan approval rules.

Capitol Housing Watch: A Major Housing Bill Hits a Political Wall

Congress approved the new housing bill, but the signing was delayed. The bill aims to speed up certain housing-related environmental reviews and prevent big Wall Street investors from taking over the single-family home market. The planned signing was canceled. While Congress can move quickly on housing policy, progress often slows down when disagreements happen.

What the Bill Can Achieve—and What It Cannot Do in a Day

Increasing the long-term housing supply can really help. Speeding up development approvals, building more homes, and limiting big investors could benefit some communities over time.

No single law can quickly make housing more affordable or lower mortgage rates in just a month. Be careful. No law can fix housing costs or mortgage rates overnight.

Watch out for headlines promising quick solutions. On the plus side, supply concerns have eased, and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is steady—a good change after energy price spikes caused inflation worries earlier this year.

Mortgage Rates are Unlikely to Drop in the Near Term

Why Housing and Energy Costs are Still Intertwined

Rising energy prices affect much more than just gas. They increase shipping, building materials, utility bills, and travel costs. Lenders consider all these expenses when deciding who can get a loan.

For buyers with limited budgets, these extra costs make owning a home even harder to achieve.

Swings on Wall Street and No Evidence of Imminent Crisis

Tech Sector and Chip Stocks Underperform

• Friday’s trading was far from smooth.
• The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq posted small gains, but attention was on weakness in tech and chip stocks.
• This does not mean a crash is coming soon.
• Instead, it shows that investors are becoming more cautious after a period of rapid gains.

Indications for the Market

• No one can be sure when a market drop, recession, or rate change will happen.
• Predictions are only guesses.
• High market values, inflation, energy prices, global trade worries, and interest rates all make the market fragile.
• Homebuyers and mortgage holders should avoid big financial decisions based only on recent market changes.

The State of Gold and Silver Markets

Precious Metals on Friday

• By Friday afternoon, gold hovered near $4,078 per ounce and silver around $59 per ounce.
• Both looked set to end the week in the red.
• Gold and silver prices move based on the dollar, government bonds, inflation, world events, and Fed policy.
• The future of precious metals, a weaker dollar, global tensions, and falling government bond returns are connected.
• Higher expectations for rates, inflation, and rising bond returns could mean losses ahead.
• So, while gold and silver can give hints about the economy, they are not reliable for predicting mortgage rates or stock prices.

The Average American Is Still Feeling the Squeeze

Income and Spending Rose, but Saving Remains Thin

• In May, personal income and spending both rose by 0.7%, and the personal saving rate was 3.0%.
• These numbers show that households are spending more but saving less.
• Higher costs leave families less ready for a mortgage, especially if they face job loss, unexpected repairs, or rising insurance and rent bills.

Consumer Sentiment Improved, but Cost-of-Living Worries Remain

Consumer sentiment bounced back in June after slipping in May. Still, half of those surveyed worry about tight finances as costs climb. Many feels discouraged by scarce housing options, steep prices, and hefty monthly payments—even if they have steady jobs, good credit, and savings.

Economic Growth

Imports Rose While Exports Fell

With imports rising and exports falling, May’s U.S. goods trade deficit hit a new low and could drag down economic growth estimates for the second quarter. For prospective homebuyers and mortgage seekers, the economy is sending mixed messages.

Job growth is up but uneven, inflation remains a worry, housing expansion is patchy, and trade deficits add to uncertainty. Keep an eye on mortgage-backed securities and Treasury yields as markets reopen.

Watch oil prices to see if they hold or rebound. Look out for new housing policies from Washington. Track your local housing inventory, price cuts, and builder incentives. Most importantly, know your own numbers: credit, debt, income, down payment, savings, and target payment matter more than any headline.

Borrower Bottom Line from GCA Forums News

These are tough mortgage market conditions, but buyers aren’t expected to have near perfect credit or put down huge amounts with conventional loans.

• When looking at a mortgage, lenders consider your credit history, income, debt-to-income ratio, cash needed to close, the property, and the type of loan.
• The first answer from a lender isn’t always final, but approval is never guaranteed.
• GCA Forums News, from Gustan Cho Associates, is committed to monitoring trends in housing affordability, interest rates, policies, and key issues affecting American families’ finances.
• Readers are encouraged to share updates, ask mortgage-related questions, and stay informed.

Questions About Mortgage and Housing News

If the Federal Reserve Cuts Rates, Will Mortgage Rates Fall?

No, mortgage rates are not easily affected. In fact, the Fed’s rate adjustments may have little or no effect on mortgage rates. Inflation reports, Treasury yields, daily demand for mortgage-backed securities, and other factors may also influence rates beyond the Federal Reserve’s interventions.

Is Home Prices About to Crash Across the U.S.?

The current data shows no evidence of a national crash. Some markets do have lower list prices, higher inventory levels, and slower sales. Other markets remain competitive. Real estate conditions vary by geography.

Does a Lower Listing Price Mean a Lower Appraisal?

A lower listing price doesn’t guarantee a lower appraisal. Appraisals consider recent sales, the property’s condition, location, property improvements, and the state of the market. A listing price is the seller’s price. Appraisals are an opinion of the value based on the market.

Is it Smart to Wait to Buy a House Since Mortgage Rates Are Expected to Go Down?

The decision to wait makes sense for some households but not all. The potential money-saving future rate is weighed against home and rent costs, home inventory, and the household’s future plans.

Do Lower Oil Prices Mean Lower Mortgage Rates?

Not usually. Lower oil prices can ease some inflation pressures. However, multiple factors affect mortgage rates. One day of cheaper oil does not justify a lower mortgage rate the next day.

Why Do Mortgage Lenders Consider Inflation?

Higher inflation would generally cause higher yields on bonds and, in turn, higher rates on mortgage loans. Also, inflation affects a borrower’s budget, debt-to-income ratio, ability to save, and the comfort of their future mortgage payments.

Is This a Bad Time to Apply for a Mortgage?

It isn’t just headlines that determine if it is a good time for a potential borrower to apply for a mortgage. If a borrower can pay off debt, has an established, steady income, a low debt-to-income ratio, and an acceptable credit rating, it may be a good time to apply. For others, it may be best to wait until they pay off debt, save, and improve their credit.

It is important to reiterate that market data fluctuates and that these reports do not constitute lending, legal, or investment advice.

GCA Forums Live News Opening

“Good evening, America. With mortgage rates hovering around 6.5% and persistent inflation, the market isn’t improving. New home sales are on the decline and one of the largest housing bills has been suspended. The oil market is shaky and so is Wall Street, but the market isn’t our biggest concern.

Tonight, GCA Forums News covers these challenges for homebuyers, homeowners, and the average family struggling to get by with the current housing market.”

For CMS transparency. The key information was validated against the latest data from the BEA, BLS, Freddie Mac, and the US Census/HUD, as well as current housing market data. A statement for “the only news network NMLS licensed” was not included, as it is a unique marketing claim that must be substantiated with proof. The report’s market sections on consumer confidence, politics, and trade were verified against the latest information from Reuters.

The following sections were verified for accuracy: politics, consumer confidence, the market, metals, and trade.

Economic Report: Mortgage Rates FLIP | Housing Market WRECKED

The mortgage industry has gone through a complete overhaul after the 2008 Financial Crisis and the Real Estate Collapse. Never in history was the housing and mortgage industry impacted like it was in this ERA. The sub-prime housing market made it anyone with a pulse be able to qualify and approved for a mortgage loan. No-doc loans, stated income loans, and other alternative mortgage loan options were popping up from every corner. Mortgage brokers and mortgage loan originators ordered the home appraisals for their borrowers and it was easy to open a mortgage broker and become an MLO. The NMLS was non-existent, and the regulatory and licensing laws were not even a fraction of how strict and monitored is today. Literally, anyone can qualify, approved, and closed on a mortgage loan. Many Americans with average income, and low credit scores took advantage of the lenient homebuying and financing process. Bottom line is the entire residential mortgage industry is now over-regulated and you can count on being equally enforced above and beyond. Each section of the mortgage process has its own rules, regulations, and enforcement policies. One of the most important steps in the mortgage process is mortgage processing. The brand and reputation of a mortgage company and mortgage loan originator has a lot to do with the training, experience, knowledge, and role of mortgage processors and how the mortgage processing system is set up. There are two categories of mortgage processors and both classes of mortgage processors are strictly regulated and enforced.

1. In-House Mortgage Processors: Mortgage processor who is hired by the mortgage broker and/or mortgage lender. Compensation can vary on how the mortgage company’s compensation plan is. Processors can get compensated hourly, salaried, commission, per file basis, or a combination of salary/hourly/per file/bonuses. The cost of the mortgage processors are absorbed by the mortgage company and the cost of running a mortgage company. Remember, that the higher the overhead of a mortgage company and/or a mortgage loan originator is trickled to the borrower. The higher the cost of successfully originating and closing a mortgage loan, the higher the lender needs to charge the borrower. Costs of a borrower on closing a mortgage loan consists of the mortgage rate, third-party vendors of the mortgage company (appraisal, discount points to buy down rate, extension on mortgage rate locks, administrative fess, tech fees, credit reporting fees, mortgage loan application fees, and contract processing fees if applicable). The key for a top-producing mortgage loan originator who is nationally known to be among the best of the best is to have a great mortgage processor and processing team. Salaries of an experienced top mortgage processors can easily surpass six figures. The average mortgage processor today averages between $40,000-$80,000.

All this regulations come from the state and federal levels.

The second type of mortgage processing class are Third-Party Contract Mortgage Processors. Since 2015, the cost of running a mortgage company has been exponentially has been skyrocketing and competition among lenders have been and continues to be brutal. Per data and numbers from the NMLS, over 40% of mortgage brokers, lenders, and mortgage loan originators are no longer in business since 2022. With the combination of intense compounding rules and regulations, cost of NMLS licensing which includes continuing education, regular annual accounting and necessary paperwork requirements such as call reports, the cost of the random audits and examinations conducted by state, and federal regulators and agencies, cost of having in-house and/or third-party regulatory and compliance staff, and cost of owning, operating, and maintenance. There are other costs in running a mortgage company which is highly dependent on the size and volume the company does. Plus, the mortgage origination industry can, and often times, is volatile and highly reliant on the real estate and other financial markets. There are times where mortgage companies can have record low revenue periods and state and federal regulators and enforcement agencies require mortgage companies and MLOs to maintain the minimum mandated net worth requirements, good credit rating with no late payments or signs of financial irresponsibility, and mandate timely payments for all of the lender’s third-party vendors. Due to the high cost of doing business including skyrocketing price increases of running credit reports, CRMs and technology systems, AI, and due to intense competition, most mortgage companies and independent mortgage loan originators are cutting down on high cost expenses. One of the big ticket costs lenders are cutting is credit reports and mortgage processing. Lenders, especially independent mortgage loan originators, and independent mortgage net branch owners and managers who need to keep competitive rates for their borrowers and intend on staying in business offering very competitive rates are making changes on sending credit report links to their borrowers due to tri-merger mortgage credit reports increasing from $27.00 per tri-merged credit report to as high as $150.00 today. The credit report fees are disclosed on the the Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure. On a more serious note, is it is legal, and compliant for mortgage companies to charge for third-party contract mortgage processing under certain strict condition which we will cover. A mom and pop mortgage broker cannot charge a borrower a processing fee with having their in-house processor do the work. In order to charge a mortgage processing fee as a third-party charge to the consumer and not absorb this high overhead, especially for a small one man shop operator, they need to use a contract processing company. The Contract Mortgage Processing Company needs to be licensed by the NMLS as a mortgage broker in each state they have mortgage loan originators giving them business. The individual mortgage processor working for the contract mortgage processing company generally does not have to have an active NMLS license. We will cover Contract Mortgage Processing more in detail in the next post.

Mortgage Processing Company – Why Contract Processing Services Work!

Chase, my long-coat black and red German Shepherd adolescence pup was born on January 25th, 2023. I purchased Chase on September 12th, 2023 when he was eight months old. I was searching Long-Haired German Shepherd dogs on Hoobly (highly recommend this website if you are shopping for dogs) and found Dan Ivenovic, a breeder of German Shepherd and Doberman Pinschers – all German bloodlines and exotic rare long hair French Bulldogs). Dan Ivenovic is based in Deerfield, Illinois, which is 30 minutes from where I live. I talked back and forth with Dan Ivenovic for a few days over the phone about maybe getting two long-coat German Shepherd dogs and a time and date for seeing the dogs. On September 12th, 2023, Dan said he can drop the dogs to may house to see them and if I like them, I could purchase them. I told him that I just want one German Shepherd dog because the German Shepherd I am buying will be my 12th dog so just to bring one. Just so everyone knows, I do have 12 dogs and they are all inside dogs. At the time my wife and I had 11 dogs (Dog #1 Female Pit Bull that was a rescue where I had to adopt or the previous owners were moving to Florida and could not take her and a male Pitbull. The male Pit Bull, my friend and fellow loan officer Jose Morales adopted. Dog #2: Stella is a 8 year old grey female Standard Poodle who is a rescue. Stella and dozens of dogs were confiscated from a large puppy breeding mill by the Sheriff’s Department in Central Wisconsin. Stella was abused, undernourished, and was about to get transported to a kill county animal shelter. Dog #3: Four year-old French Bull Dog – Adopted last year from Highland, Illinois. Dog # 4: Five-year old four pound toy poodle. Dog #5: Five-year old five pound Yorkshire Terrier. Dog #6 and Dog #7: Five year old Boston Terrier brothers. Dog #8 eleven year old toy poodle. Dog #9: Five-year old toy poodle. Dog #10: Six-year old Schiz Szu-Pomeranian mix. Dog #11: Six-year old three pound Chihuahua. Chase makes it dog #12). So, when I adopted Chase, he was eight months old. He was very skittish, was not leash trained, was semi-potty trained, did not know how to sleep on a dog bed, did not know nothing about toys, did not know how to walk and down the stairs, did not know human food, ice cream, or treats, did not know how to walk into different rooms through a door, did not know how to get in and out of my truck, and did not know many things a normal eight month dog should know. I had to take him to the vet every other week because of warms and a stomach parasite which took six months to treat. Anyways, I spent a lot of time with him. Taught him the basics, took him for rides, introduced him to toys, and soon he started coming around. All his four-legged furry brothers and sisters eventually welcomed Chase into their group and he became part of the family. We also have three unfriendly skittish rescue cats. Chase gets along with everyone and doesn’t mind the little ones snapping at him or disrespecting him by stealing his toys or food. Eventually, Chase choose a red 16 inch ball as his favorite toy. He brings his red ball throughout the day to take him out to play fetch. I disregard him many times because I am in the middle of something to do for work. He then picks up his ball and drops it to me. He continues to do this half a dozen times and if I disregard him, he will pick up his red ball and throws it to me. I ignore him, his next move is he will pick up his red ball and hands it to me and while he is doing so, you can see the whites of his eyes. NOW, HOW CAN I SAY NO TO HIM. I then change my clothes to take him out so we can play catch one on one. I need to take him out of the house to play fetch because if I take home to the back yard, we get disrupted from the other dogs. When we both had enough, we both go back in the house. Not once does Chase let his red ball out of the house. I bought other similar balls for Chase but he only wants his beat up red ball. The point for this story is you will see pictures of Chase and most pictures Chase has his red ball

with him. German Shepherds are the best dog breed I have had. My first dog, Jeannie, was a female German Shepherd I had when I was a freshman in high school. My best friend, loyal, and was always with me wherever I went. I will save that story for a different separate thread. I highly recommend German Shepherd breed for those people who want to get a dog for their family. Many people think German Shepherd dogs will not get along with small dogs, cats, and children. NOT TRUE. I will explain my interactions with other people when I have Chase with me on separate posts. Here are some more photos of Chase.

• This discussion was modified 1 year, 10 months ago by  Gustan Cho.

The report sounds urgent but does not predict a stock market crash or a nationwide housing collapse. Today’s data show growing affordability issues, ongoing inflation, and a shaky housing market. Still, these problems do not guarantee a downturn.

June 25, 2026, mortgage and housing market update. Includes 6.49% rates and analysis of May’s inflation, home sales, jobs, oil, stocks, and related market factors.

GCA Forums News: Mortgage Housing News June 25, 2026

Mortgage and Housing News: June 25, 2026By GCA Forums News Staff

Powered by Gustan Cho Associates: Updated Thursday Evening, June 25, 2026

• Today, Americans face a mix of economic signals.
• Mortgage rates went up, and inflation once again was higher than the Federal Reserve’s target.
• New home sales dropped, while oil prices rose because of unrest in the Strait of Hormuz.
• However, may saw job growth and more existing home sales.
• Despite these changes, Wall Street remained steady.
• The outlook remains uncertain for buyers, sellers, lenders, and investors, prompting greater financial caution.

Mortgage Rate Alert: The 30-Year Fixed Rate Moves Back to 6.49%

This week, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 6.49%, while the 15-year fixed rate averaged 5.84%. Even a small, steady increase in rates can quickly reduce the number of qualified buyers, making homes less affordable.

National Mortgage Rates Are Not Your Exact Rate

A national mortgage rate does not mean every borrower will get that rate. Factors like credit score, loan size, loan type, where the property is, whether it’s occupied, debt compared to income, property type, discount points, and lender rules all affect the final rate.

Prospective borrowers should review the full Loan Estimate, as the overall loan structure may reduce long-term costs. Sometimes, higher interest rates are balanced by lower upfront costs.

Inflation Is Back in the Spotlight After a Hot May Report

• Inflation is still a major concern, especially since it affects mortgage rates.
• The Fed’s main focus is the PCE report. In May, it was up 4.1% year over year. Core PCE was up 3.4%.
• On a monthly basis, overall PCE rose 0.4%, and Core PCE increased 0.3%.

CPI Also Shows Energy Is Still Hurting Household Budgets

The CPI indicates energy prices rose 23.5% year over year, contributing to a 4.2% overall increase and impacting household budgets.

Costs kept climbing, with food prices stubbornly high. Costs kept rising, and food prices stayed high. For many families, these expenses are difficult.

Qualifying for a mortgage depends on more than just salary. It requires balancing income, housing costs, debts, insurance, taxes, and other monthly bills.

The Housing Market Is Split: Existing Homes Rise While New Homes Fall

• The housing market is moving in two different directions.
• In May, existing home sales climbed, but new home sales slipped in the opposite direction.
• This difference explains why national headlines can be misleading. In some cities, prices are falling, and builders are offering deals.
• In other places, buyers compete for a limited number of listings and face high monthly payments.

Existing-Home Sales Soar to 4.17 Million Annual Rate

In May, existing home sales rose 3.2% compared to both the previous month and the same month last year. The median price for existing homes is $429,300.

There were 1.55 million homes for sale, enough to last 4.5 months. That’s more than during the worst shortage, but still not enough for most first-time buyers.

The South and West stayed expensive, though the West’s median price dropped slightly from last year.

New-Home Sales Decline While Builder Inventory Increases

New single-family home sales fell 7.3% in May to an annual rate of 580,000. Builder inventory increased to 496,000 new homes, a 10.3-month supply. The median price for new homes is $424,900.

In this market, buyers have more negotiating power. Builders with many unsold homes are willing to offer help with closing costs, rate buydowns, upgrades, or price cuts.

Still, buyers should consider these perks along with the total costs, monthly payments, taxes, insurance, association dues, and loan terms.

Jobs Are Holding Up, But Many Americans Are Still Stressed About Money

The latest monthly employment report shows that 172,000 jobs were added in May, and the unemployment rate remained unchanged. This does not suggest the job market is collapsing.

Still, the numbers show ongoing concerns. Long-term unemployment is still a problem, and people affected by layoffs or career changes are taking longer to recover.

For families hoping to buy a home, these income gaps can make it harder to get a mortgage. For the week ending June 20, first-time unemployment claims dropped to 215,000, suggesting layoffs are declining. However, continuing claims rose to 1,821,000, showing that some people are taking longer to find new jobs. One weekly report does not show the full picture of the job market. School schedules, weather, and seasonal changes all affect unemployment claims. For lenders, investors, and the Federal Reserve, the labor market will remain a main focus in the coming months.

Renewed Concerns Over Security in the Strait of Hormuz Send Oil Prices Soaring

Fresh security fears in the Strait of Hormuz sent oil prices soaring after news broke of an attack on an Omani cargo ship. Crude oil shot past $71 per barrel.

Oil prices have fluctuated widely this year, falling when peace seemed possible and rising quickly amid new shipping threats.

These changes are concerning because energy prices affect transportation, food, and manufacturing costs, which then influence consumer spending.

The Ripple Effect of Political Unrest and Its Impact on Mortgages

Any disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route, will affect energy prices, inflation, U.S. Treasury yields, and mortgage costs.

The U.S. Senate also passed a War Powers Resolution this week, telling the President to stop hostilities with Iran. The White House says this vote has no real effect. For homebuyers, global news can quickly affect the U.S. mortgage market.

Wall Street Closes Mixed as Investors Balance Concerns with Profit Taking

The stock market had a mixed close on Thursday. The Dow Jones inched upward, but the S&P 500 and Nasdaq slipped as technology stocks faced stiff headwinds.

People still discuss whether AI and tech stocks are too expensive. Some worry about bubbles, but these concerns alone do not mean a market crash is coming soon.

Anteed Stock Market Crashes Cannot Be Fact-Checked.

The market can correct. The market can be bullish. The market can remain overvalued for an extended period. Bold predictions of a certain crash need solid evidence. Responsible reporting avoids causing panic without proof. The market’s mixed results show caution and volatility, not a sudden collapse.

Market ups and downs are normal. It is smart to keep an emergency fund, avoid debt in case of unexpected events, and remember that emotions often influence the market more than logic.

Predicting prices and precious metals is always uncertain. Recent inflation reports show gold rose above $4,000, and silver, platinum, and palladium also increased. Changes in inflation, global conflicts, interest rates, the dollar’s value, and ‘safe-haven’ investor activity all affect demand for precious metals. These markets react quickly to news headlines.

Where Gold is Headed is Anyone’s Guess

• Gold continues to defy prediction.
• Some experts think high interest rates and a strong U.S. dollar will push gold prices down.
• Others expect central banks to buy gold, new political risks, and possible rate cuts to keep gold prices up.
• This difference shows how uncertain predictions are.
• No forecast should be taken as a sure thing or personal investment advice.

Budgets Are Getting Tighter, But Income Is Increasing

The numbers show that personal income and consumer spending both went up in May. Still, inflation continues to reduce household budgets. The personal savings rate in May was 3.0%. Household debt at the end of the first quarter was $18.8 trillion, with mortgage balances over $13 trillion. Many households have less financial flexibility, though not everyone is struggling. With gas, food, rent, insurance, taxes, and debt all rising, many families have almost no room for mistakes.

High Housing Costs are the Core Problem of Affordability

• The central question in housing is not availability.
• The core issue is whether buyers can afford their payments.
• A buyer might find the perfect home but be turned down if the payments are too high because of mortgage interest, taxes, insurance, HOA dues, car loans, student loans, or credit card debt.
• Smart buyers start planning for a mortgage before they begin looking for a house.

Homebuyers and Mortgage Borrowers: Analysis of the News of the Day

• The mortgage market remains difficult, with high rates and inflation above the Fed’s target.
• Oil price shocks and political issues add more uncertainty, and home sales vary across the country.
• However, buyers are finding opportunities in some markets, especially where builders have extra homes or sellers want to sell quickly.
• Some homebuyers may want to wait for lower rates, but waiting has its own risks.
• Rates may go up, inventory may go down, and buyers’ credit, job, or debt situations could change.
• The chance to get a better mortgage rate could be lost.
• Most successful borrowers are well-prepared and understand their credit scores, mortgage costs, and loan options.

What is the GCA Forums News Focused on Next

• The key jobs report will be released on July 2, and the Consumer Price Index on July 14.
• GCA Forums News will continue to monitor mortgage rates, loan program changes, housing market trends, consumer affordability, employment, inflation, and other factors affecting American homebuyers.

Most Popular Answers

Will a Higher Inflation Report Push Mortgage Rates Up Tomorrow?

Not exactly. Inflation affects mortgage rates indirectly by influencing bond markets and Federal Reserve expectations. However, mortgage pricing is dynamic and influenced by Treasury yields and mortgage-backed securities, lender appetite, global news, and a host of other market conditions.

Why is There a Gap Between the Federal Reserve and Mortgage Rates?

The Federal Reserve controls only a short-term benchmark rate, and most 30-year mortgages are tied to long-term bonds and mortgage-backed securities. Fed rates do set the ballpark for mortgage rates, but they will never set the exact rate a borrower will pay.

Can Falling Oil Prices Bring Down Mortgage Rates?

Falling oil prices bring down inflation, increasing long-term investments, but only marginally affect mortgage rates. Even then, mortgage rates are influenced by a sea of other factors, including employment reports, inflation, Treasury yields, global conflict, investor appetite, and lender pricing.

What is Causing the Inverse Relationship Between Sales of New and Existing Homes?

New home sales depend on signed contracts, whereas existing sales are reported after the home closes. Additionally, builders can incentivize purchases in ways unavailable to traditional sellers. Since the reports capture different segments of the market, they can inherently move in opposite directions.

Are Home Prices Falling Across the United States?

No, housing trends are not the same everywhere. Pricing changes and inventory shifts vary by city, state, price tier, and property type. Some markets are showing price declines and increasing inventory. Other markets continue to have shrinking inventory and stable or even rising prices. Buyers should consider local data rather than generalizing the entire country.

Is the stock market guaranteed to crash?

No, there are no credible claims of a guaranteed market crash. Valuations, inflation, interest rates, debt, and geopolitical concerns are all worries for investors, but none of them justify expecting a crash at any given time.

What Should a Buyer Compare When Shopping for a Mortgage?

Buyers should consider the interest rate, APR, lender fees, discount points, cost to close, monthly payment, mortgage insurance, prepayment terms, and the estimated closing date. Loan Estimates should be provided to allow for a fair comparison.

Editorial Note:

• This report is for education and news.
• Mortgage rates, market prices, and loans are dynamic.
• Pricing and terms are dependent on the full application, the property, underwriting, and lender requirements.
• For a publication, add a real name byline, NMLS number, a visible edit time, source links, and a reviewer name.
• Google prefers a people-first approach, authentic titles, no exaggeration, original research, and clear authorship when covering financial topics.

Fact-Check Source List for Your Editor:

Current Mortgage Averages:

• As of June, the 30-Year Fixed Rate averaged 6.49% and the 15-Year Fixed Rate 5.84% according to Freddie Mac.

Inflation and Consumer Spending for May:

• PCE inflation was 4.1%, core PCE was 3.4%, and the savings rate was 3.0%.

CPI:

• Consumer prices were at a 4.2% year-over-year increase, with energy at a 23.5% increase in May.

Housing:

• Existing-home sales surged to a 4.17 million annual rate while new-home sales fell to 580,000, which was a 10.3-month supply.

Jobs:

• May saw a payroll increase of 172,000, with unemployment unchanged at 4.3% and initial unemployment claims falling to 215,000.

Household Debt:

• In Q1, total household debt was reported to be $18.8 trillion.
• Balances on mortgages made up $13.19 trillion.

Oil, Precious Metals, and Markets, as well as Political Developments in Iran:

• Reuters and AP covered Thursday’s market volatility, which included oil, gold, and silver, and a mixed close for US markets, along with the Senate war-powers vote,

The BIGGEST Housing Market LIE BEING TOLD RIGHT NOW

This guide, created for GCA Forums MLO Training eLearning, helps new loan officers understand key documents, keep track of deadlines, spot allowed changes, and check files with confidence before borrowers close on their loans.

Loan Estimate vs. Closing Disclosure

A Complete Guide for Mortgage Loan Officers

GCA Forums MLO Training eLearning

The Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure are two key documents in the mortgage process. When loan officers understand these forms, they can explain costs to borrowers, comply with federal rules, and keep closings on track.

This guide teaches mortgage loan officers how to distinguish these documents, understand timing rules, manage fee limits, and spot common problems before they arise.

New officers often wonder how these documents differ. Both show loan terms and closing costs, but each serves a unique legal purpose and is given at a different stage in the process.

When This Lesson is Complete, You Should Be Able To:

• Describe a Loan Estimate
• Describe a Closing Disclosure
• Describe a thing or explain something based on its TRID timing. may or will change.
• Describe conditions or situations that will warrant a revised Loan Estimate.
• Describe conditions or situations that will initiate a new Closing Disclosure waiting period.
• Describe action steps that will mitigate or eliminate a Closing Delay.

What is a Loan Estimate

Simply Put, the Loan Estimate (LE) is the First Required Disclosure Under the TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure (TRID) Rule. Borrowers Understand:

• The size of the Loan
• Interest Cost
• the amount of the loan payment
• the estimated tax and insurance costs
• The estimated Closing Cost
• The cash required at the Closing
• the details of the loan,
• the estimated APR.

You can think of the Loan Estimate as a first draft. It gives early numbers, but these amounts might change later.

The Loan Estimate only shows preliminary numbers, so it should not be considered final.

Loan Estimate Delivery Requirements

The Law Requires That the Loan Estimate Be Given Within:

• Three business days following the receipt of a completed mortgage application.

For TRID, a Mortgage Application is Considered Made When These Six Pieces of Information Are Received:

• the Borrower’s name
• the Borrower’s income
• the Borrower’s Social Security Number
• The property address
• The estimated value of the Property
• Once you have these six pieces of information, you must begin the process of delivering the Loan Estimate.

The Seven-Day Waiting Rule

• A loan cannot close until at least seven business days after the Loan Estimate is given.
• This gives borrowers time to review and think about their loan terms.
• This rule lets the borrower review the loan terms before closing.

What is the Closing Disclosure?

The Closing Disclosure (CD) is the last disclosure prior to settlement.

The Closing Disclosure, unlike the Loan Estimate, provides the final, exact numbers the borrower will use at closing.

The CD Will Have the Following:

• Final Interest Rate
• Final Monthly Payment
• Closing Costs
• Prepaid Expenses
• Escrow Deposits
• Cash to Close
• Seller Credits
• Lender Credits
• Final Loan Terms

Borrowers sign the Closing Disclosure before closing, but this does not mean they are committed to the loan. They are only committed once they sign the final papers at closing.

The Borrower Must Receive the Closing Disclosure:

The borrower must receive the Closing Disclosure at least three business days before closing. This waiting period gives them time to review the final terms before signing the loan documents.

Loan Estimate Vs Closing Disclosure

• Loan Estimate
• Closing Disclosure
• Initial estimate
• Final figures
• Within 3 business days of an application
• At least 3 business days prior to closing
• Estimated costs
• Actual costs
• Can be revised
• Final, approved terms
• Assists the borrower in shopping for mortgages
• Assists the borrower in preparing for the closing

Reasons Why Numbers Change

Borrowers Often Ask This Question:

• “Why is there a difference between closing costs and the Loan Estimate?”
• There are many valid reasons for this, such as changes in property taxes.
• Changes in the homeowners’ insurance premiums
• Changes in seller concessions
• Changes in the appraisal
• Changes in the escrow amounts
• Changes in the interest rate lock
• Changes in the loan amount
• Changes requested by the borrower
• Any changes that are discovered in the underwriting process
• Not all changes are allowed under TRID limits.

Understanding Fee Limits

• TRID sets limits on how much certain fees can increase. These are called tolerance fees.
• These fees can never go up.

Examples of These Fees Include

• Lender Fees
• Transfer Taxes
• Provider fees
• 10% Cumulative Tolerance

These Fees Can Increase by no More Than 10%. Examples Include:

• Recording Fees
• Certain settlement services are provided by the lender’s list of available providers.

Unlimited Tolerance Fees Can Increase by any Amount. Examples Include:

• Homeowners insurance
• Property taxes
• Prepaid interest
• Escrow deposits
• Optional owner’s title insurance
• Fees for providers chosen by the borrower

When Can a Revised Loan Estimate Be Issued?

A Revised Loan Estimate can only be issued when there is a real change in the situation.

These May Include:

• Borrower amends the loan amount.
• Borrower’s credit report is updated.
• The property’s appraised value differs substantially from the estimate.
• Other information is made known that would affect the Borrower’s eligibility.
• Interest rate is locked.
• Borrower changes the request to a different one.
• The transaction is affected by a natural disaster.
• However, a Revised Loan Estimate should not be issued just because the lender estimated the fees too low.
• The fees too low.

What Counts as a Changed Circumstance?

A changed circumstance is any event outside the lender’s control that affects closing costs or loan terms.

These May Include:

• Changes in the value of the property.
• Changes in the Borrower’s income.
• Changes in the Borrower’s employment.
• Issues with the title.
• Changes in the appraisal.
• Borrower adds or removes a co-Borrower.
• Changes in the loan program.

A Revised Loan Estimate requires proper proof of the changed circumstance.

When Do Corrections Need a New Three-day Closing Disclosure Wait?

Not all corrections mean the three-day Closing Disclosure wait must start over.

A new waiting period is generally triggered if:

APR Changes Beyond Allowed Tolerance

If the Annual Percentage Rate changes by more than is allowed, a new Closing Disclosure must be provided, and the waiting period restarts. A change from a fixed-rate loan to an ARM

• A change from a Conventional loan to an FHA loan
• A change from an FHA loan to a VA loan
• An Interest-only loan feature that is added

A Prepayment Penalty is Added

If a prepayment penalty is added, a new waiting period is required.

Changes That Usually Do NOT Restart the Waiting Period: Examples Include:

• Small changes to recording fees
• Changes to the amount of escrow
• Changes to property taxes
• Changes to prepaid interest that are small
• Spelling correction
• Small lender credit adjustments
• Utility proration changes

A borrower does not have to wait an extra three business days for a corrected Closing Disclosure.

Should an MLO Review be Conducted Before Closing?

An MLO Must Compare the Loan Estimate with the final Closing Disclosure and Confirm the Following:

• The amount of the loan
• The interest rate
• The monthly payment
• The amount of cash to close
• The amount and types of credits
• Seller concessions
• The amount of funds in escrow
• Mortgage insurance
• Property taxes
• Homeowners insurance
• The loan program
• The borrower’s occupancy of the property
• The loan term

Finding any differences before sending the Closing Disclosure helps keep the process smooth and prevents last-minute confusion or delays.

What are Common Closing Delays?

Most delays can be avoided because their causes often appear during the closing process.

There are many reasons transactions may be delayed. Common causes include:

• Documents are not closing correctly
• Missing required documents
• Title Defects
• Issues with insurance
• Changes in employment
• New debt is being incurred
• Cash to Close is not being calculated correctly
• Delays in transactions
• Missing required documents
• Changes in loan programs

Clear and Regular Communication Between the Loan Officer, Processor, and Underwriter is Essential for Keeping Transactions on Schedule.

Successful, Experienced Mortgage Loan Officers (MLOs)

Follow These Best Practices, Including:

• Present the borrower with the Loan Estimate as soon as possible.
• Prepare the borrower for possible changes in loan costs.
• Explain any changes to the borrower’s estimates right away, rather than waiting for them to ask.
• Lock in the interest rate as soon as possible.
• Communicate with the title company throughout the transaction process.
• Closing cost estimates (Closing Disclosures) should be checked for accuracy before the borrower reviews and signs them.
• Encourage the borrower to review the Closing Disclosure as soon as possible.
• Update Closing Disclosures quickly to keep transactions moving.
• The Loan Estimate and Closing Disclosure help explain the mortgage process, so borrowers understand what to expect from start to finish.
• When loan officers know TRID timing, fee limits, and why disclosures change, they can follow the rules and work more efficiently.
• Checking these documents before closing helps prevent mistakes and leads to better conversations with borrowers.

Knowledge Check

Within how many business days must a Loan Estimate generally be delivered after receiving a complete application?

A. 1 day

B. 3 business days ✅

C. 5 business days

D. 7 business days

How many business days before consummation must the borrower receive the Closing Disclosure?

A. Same day

B. 1 business day

C. 3 business days ✅

D. 7 business days

Which document contains the final closing costs?

A. Loan Estimate

B. Initial Loan Application

C. Closing Disclosure ✅

D. Rate Lock Agreement

Which of the following may require a new three-business-Day waiting period after a Closing Disclosure has been issued?

A. Minor escrow adjustment

B. Utility proration

C. Loan product changes ✅

D. Recording fee correction

True or False:

The Loan Estimate provides the borrower with estimated costs. The Closing Disclosure provides the borrower with the final loan terms and settlement figures.

Answer: True ✅

This lesson gives new mortgage loan officers a solid foundation. If you want to learn more, the next module, “TRID Compliance for Mortgage Loan Officers: Advanced Training,” covers topics like Intent to Proceed, redisclosure timing, valid changed circumstances, fee tolerance cures, business days, and CFPB examination findings.

• This discussion was modified 5 days, 8 hours ago by  Gustan Cho.

GCA Forums News

Mortgage Rates Surge Again, Creating Immediate Challenges for Housing Market: GCA Forums National Housing & Economic News Report Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Mortgage rates spike; Senate passes housing bill; buyers scramble to adapt; surging oil prices fuel inflation; housing affordability remains a severe concern.

2026 Housing Market News: High Rates Not Stopping Buyers

Throughout 2025 and early 2026, most experts thought high mortgage rates would keep buyers out of the market. But that prediction was wrong from the start.

A new national survey shows that for the first time since 2023; more people prefer buying a home over renting. Despite less affordability, higher prices, and mortgage rates above 6%, buyers are not backing down.

People feel better about owning a home, especially Millennials and the few Gen Z buyers in the market. Right now, the mood in the housing market is sending a clear message:

People are frustrated by high rates but are starting to accept them as the new normal.

Let’s Take a Closer Look at Mortgage Rates and Why They are Rising Now.

Mortgage rates have jumped again, undoing the brief relief we saw earlier this year.

Several major sources report that average 30-year fixed mortgage rates now range from 6.4% to 6.7%, depending on the lender and the borrower.

Causes of Increasing Mortgage Rates: There Are Several Reasons Why Rates Keep Going Up:

• Elevated inflation
• Unsettled energy costs
• Unsettled geopolitical factors
• Unsettled bond market
• Decreased expectations for short-term rate cuts by the Fed

Some Borrowers Say

:“How Long Until Rates Drop to the 5% Range?”

• Right now, the bond market and inflation have the biggest impact on rates.
• News from the Fed matters less than before.

Mortgage Rates

Current Market Means

• 30-Year Fixed: about 6.4% to 6.7%
• FHA: about 6.2%
• VA: about 6.2%
• 15-Year Fixed: about 5.9% to 6.0%

Rates can vary depending on the lender, your credit score, the type of loan, and other pricing factors.

Shockwave: Senate Passes Groundbreaking Housing Bill

• A lot is happening right now in the housing market and in Congress.
• The Senate just passed a new housing bill with strong support.
• Many say it’s the most important housing law in decades.
• The main goals are to fight housing shortages and make homes more affordable.

What the Bill Would Do

Among Other Things, This Legislation Would:

• Expand the supply of housing.
• Shorten the time to gain building permits.
• Build more affordable housing.
• Make smaller, less expensive, and more affordable mortgages.
• Reduce barriers to the local government’s housing approvals.
• Reduce institutional purchasing of single-family homes, with some exceptions.

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives.

Why You Should Care as a Mortgage Borrower

• The biggest obstacle to affordable housing right now is simply not having enough homes available.
• Even though people focus on mortgage rates, the main reason home prices are rising is that there aren’t enough homes for sale.
• If more homes come on the market, buying could become more affordable—even if mortgage rates stay the same.

Oil Prices vs. Mortgage Rates Again

Here’s something home buyers might not know: oil prices matter, too.

• Energy prices and inflation are closely connected.
• When oil prices rise, inflation can increase, which may lead to higher mortgage rates.
• Many housing experts think energy prices affect mortgage rates more than the Federal Reserve suggests.

Oil Prices Impact Everyone for a Large Range of Costs

Increased Oil Prices Affect:

• Transportation costs
• Costs of manufacturing
• Costs of goods
• Inflation
• Treasury Yields
• Mortgage-Backed Securities

When people hear about inflation, they usually think of higher prices. But it can also mean higher mortgage rates.

That’s one reason mortgage rates are still high, even though many people expect borrowing costs to drop in the future.

Now Let’s Take a Look at the Bigger Picture: is the Market Starting to Recover? It Depends on the Location.

Overall, the national housing market is still slower than it was in the years right after the pandemic.

What Buyers Are Facing

Current Buyers are Experiencing:

• More expensive monthly payments
• Higher prices for homes
• Less buying power
• Higher costs for insurance
• Higher property taxes in many areas

Even with these challenges, more homes for sale in many areas mean buyers have more room to negotiate than during the frantic bidding wars of 2021 and 2022.

What Sellers Are Facing

Sellers Have Found That:

• Homes usually take longer to sell
• Fewer offers are the norm.
• Pricing decisions are more critical.
• Buyers are once again negotiating.

The market is moving toward a better balance, though conditions still vary from place to place.

Turning to Home Prices: Could a Correction be Coming?

A new study from the Mortgage Bankers Association says that upcoming demographic changes could slow down home price growth, and in some areas, prices might even drop.

What Could Result In Slower Growth In Home Prices

The following are becoming more important:

• Slower growth in population
• Increased building of new homes
• Changes in demographics (they are aging)
• Less growth in demand

Still, these changes probably won’t cause a nationwide housing market crash.

This means the fast home price increases we’ve seen over the past decade may not last much longer.

Stock Market Watch: Uncertainty Grows for Investors

Wall Street is dealing with a new round of big ups and downs as a broad sell-off picks up speed.

Major tech companies have taken a hit as worries grow about their value, rising AI spending, and what will happen with interest rates.

What Should Mortgage Borrowers ConsiderStock Market Volatility Affects:

• Retirement accounts
• Down payment funds
• Consumer confidence
• Treasury markets
• Movements in borrowing costs. Investors are debating whether inflation will stick around, since that could mean higher borrowing costs in the long run.

Current Observations from Mortgage Borrowers

At GCA Forums and Gustan Cho Associates, we’ve noticed that many people reaching out to mortgage brokers share some common concerns:

Number One Issue: Affordability

Most buyers aren’t asking if they qualify for a loan.

They are asking whether they can afford the monthly payment.

Credit Issues are a Concern

Most borrowers are still struggling with:

• Student loans
• Credit card debt
• Collection accounts
• Recent late payments
• High debt-to-income ratios

Increasing Flexibility from BuyersThere has been great interest in:

• FHA financing
• VA loans
• USDA loans
• Temporary rate buydowns
• Seller concessions
• Unique loan structures

Buyers realize the market probably won’t change soon, so they aren’t waiting for perfect conditions.

Political Watch: Growing Housing Affordability Crisis and Elections

Housing affordability is on track to be one of the most talked-about issues on both sides of the aisle.

Both parties increasingly concentrate on:

• affordable home ownership
• rising rents
• short supply of housing
• Challenges for first-time home buyers
• inflation and rising costs

Housing policy will likely stay front and center in national politics for years to come.

Key Insights for Americans

Covering the Housing and Mortgage Markets Today, the Most Important Issues Are:

• Mortgage rates above 6%
• Inflation is still affecting the markets.
• Oil is impacting the balance.
• Demand to buy a home is growing despite the affordability issue.
• The Senate passed a significant housing reform bill.
• Housing supply is better in many markets.
• Demand for more affordable housing is growing.

The housing market isn’t as intense as it was in 2021, but it’s not falling apart either. Everyone—buyers, sellers, lenders, and policymakers—needs to adjust quickly to higher rates, higher costs, and changing consumer habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Mortgage Rates Drop Below 6% in 2026?

Predicting rates isn’t possible. Inflation and economic factors will influence rates. Current estimates indicate rates will remain above 6% through 2026.

Is Now a Bad Time to Buy a Home?

This answer relies on your financial, career, and life situation. Rates could fall, but nothing is stopping home prices from falling further.

Why are Mortgage Rates Not Following the Federal Reserve’s Rate Decisions?

Mortgage rates are primarily tied to the bond market and inflation expectations. The federal funds rate has a limited impact on mortgage rates. More often, Treasury yields will impact rates more.

Could Home Prices Crash as They Did in 2008?

Most economists believe we will not see a repeat of the 2008 crash. Current lending standards and practices are more robust, and homeowners’ equity positions are higher.

Are First-Time Homebuyers Still Buying Homes?

Yes. Even with the drop in affordability, younger generations are still buying homes. Many are participating in FHA, VA, and low-down-payment programs.

Why Do Oil Prices Impact Mortgage Rates?

Oil prices impact inflation. If energy prices rise, inflation is expected to rise, which would likely raise Treasury yields and mortgage rates.

Will the New Housing Bill Reduce Home Prices in the Near Future?

No. If it goes through, it will still take years to impact supply and affordability. Advocates believe it will help address the overall housing crisis by increasing housing supply in the future.

Is Housing Affordability Currently the Largest Barrier to Buying for Most Potential Buyers?

“IT’S OVER! The Fed JUST Ended Gold & Silver” – Peter Schiff & Luke Gromen Recent CRASH EXPLAINED

Yes. Housing affordability is the biggest issue faced by homebuyers. In many markets, this is a greater issue than the overall inventory shortage.

Rod Blagojevich joins Greta Van Susteren for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on this episode of Greta Wire.

The former Illinois governor looks back on the prosecution that ended his political career, his years in federal prison, and why he believes he was an early target of the same kind of “lawfare” later used against President Donald Trump.

Greta and Blagojevich revisit the Obama Senate seat controversy, the legal arguments at the center of his trial, and the evidence he says should have been heard in full. He also shares what prison was really like — from the harsh realities of incarceration to performing Elvis songs with a prison band — and reflects on the personal toll the case took on his wife and daughters.

Blagojevich also discusses President Trump’s decision to commute his sentence and later pardon him, and explains why he now describes himself as a “Trumpocrat.”

If you enjoy in-depth conversations on politics, justice, media, and the people behind the headlines, subscribe to Greta Wire for more interviews every week.

Topics in this episode:

Rod Blagojevich’s conviction and prison sentence
the Obama Senate seat controversy
claims of political prosecution and lawfare
life inside federal prison
President Trump’s commutation and pardon
family, faith, and second chances

Got a comment or question? Send it to EmailGreta@newsmax.com and it may be used or answered on an upcoming episode.

You can watch the video version of the “Greta Wire” podcast on NEWSMAX social media channels, plus YouTube and Rumble, on the same afternoon the audio version launches.

Listen to Newsmax LIVE and subscribe to our entire podcast lineup at http://Newsmax.com/Listen​

Don’t miss Greta every weekday on “The Record with Greta Van Susteren” at 4 PM ET, only on NEWSMAX TV

​https://www.youtube.com/live/XovPjgNvlpU?si=_9UwjTxJt9-TtDTA

I have a brand new $620,000 house that I built. I have a balance of 155,000 on my construction loan and I would like to get up another 25,000 for a total of 180,000.

JP Mortgage Chase Bank Mortgage is offering 30 year fixed mortgage rates at 6.25% for a prime borrower: This rate is priced for a prime borrower which in the eyes of Chase has a 740 FICO or higher, has 25% down payment, and a purchase price of not greater than $832,500 and debt to income ratio of not great than 45%. Chase Bank is advertising this all over the internet. Is this a true rate that a borrower can legitimately get on a home purchase loan or is there something sneaky and deceptive on the advertisement such as discount points, hidden fees, junk fees such as credit report fees, processing fees, underwriting fees, tech fees, accounting fees, due diligence fees, and other click bait type fees that will be profitable to Chase. I just cannot understand on how Chase can offer such low rate when par mortgage rates (Fannie/Freddie) is 6.75% without charging discount points? Who else has competitive rates? I know Gustan Cho Associates Mortgage Group often has the best rates for prime borrowers due to being mortgage broker and correspondent lender with over 300 plus wholesale lending partners. What is the best rate the team at Gustan Cho Associates as well as other reputable mortgage brokers and/or lenders is offering now? I do realize that we are in a time and period where rates are volatile and have been soaring the past couple of weeks due to high inflation, high home prices, skyrocketing volatile oil prices, better than expected jobs and economic data, better than expected financial news at all levels, and the conflict in Iran. However, I heard a peace treaty was reached and oil prices started plummeting.

Get Chrome for your computer

I am applying by myself using my VA loan. I have a 583 middle credit score, which is currently within the mortgage shopping window. Rocket Mortgage capped me at $120k due to an automated computer overlay, but I need an approval for $200k to get this house. I have 2 continuous years of W-2 income with $3200 monthly, $1663 monthly, tax-free VA disability income, and strong residual income to easily support a $1,500 monthly payment. I need a loan officer who specializes in VA Manual Underwriting to push past the automated caps. Can you help me?

Housing and Mortgage News for Monday, June 22, 2026

As the week of June 22, 2026, begins, the housing market shows few signs of cooling, as homebuyers contend with high home prices, mortgage rates hovering around 6%, and price levels that threaten purchasing power. Despite this, the market is active. More buyers are writing contracts, existing-home sales rose in May, and in many markets, home sellers are starting to negotiate prices more than they did in the recent housing boom.

Mortgage rates remain the most serious concern. For the week ending June 22, 2026, Freddie Mac reported the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.47%, with the 15-year fixed mortgage averaging 5.81%. While rates are lower than they were this time last year, they remain elevated enough to warrant caution for homebuyers.

The Federal Reserve also remained the focus of attention. On June 22, 2026, the Fed decided to hold the line on its benchmark interest rate. While the Fed does not control mortgage rates directly, it does trickle down to the bond market, and inflation and interest rate expectations. Mortgage rates are more closely tied to the 10-year Treasury yield than to the Fed funds rate.

Rate, and Rate Alone, is Affecting Demand

The largest variable in today’s market is, without a doubt, the interest rate. A potential buyer may qualify to purchase a property at a 5.5% interest rate, but at a 6.5% rate, that same buyer may no longer qualify. Differences in interest rates affect monthly payments, debt-to-income ratios, and, ultimately, loan approval.

Because of this, borrowers have begun to ask about seller concessions, temporary rate buy-downs, lender credits, and FHA/VA/USDA/Non-QM loan types. Locally, buyers have begun to search for homes and payment assistance.

For mortgage professionals, this means pre-approval files need to be reviewed more closely, and income, credit, assets, and debts, along with the mortgage loan product, need to be more closely matched, as the margin is now much thinner.

Housing Market Boost with Increased Existing-Home Sales in May 2026

The data show a boost in the housing market, with Existing Home Sales in May 2026 increasing 3.2% Month over Month. These sales have increased across the Northeast, Midwest, and Southern Regions, while the West has seen little to no movement.

This supports the idea that buyers are still participating in the housing market, even with interest rates over 6%, and Spring did not see the near-total collapse of the housing market. Buyers are beginning to understand that this is the market and that 6% interest rates may be here to stay in the near future.

The Midwest remains one of the strongest monthly growth markets and is more affordable than Coastal communities. Buyers priced out of the Coastal communities are now focusing on the Midwest, which offers a better price-to-income ratio.

Pending Home Sales Indicate Active Home Buying

Pending home sales data released for May 2026 shows positive momentum. This number increased 3.8% from the previous month and increased 4.8% from 2025. Pending sales data is critical as it provides the number of transactions for which contracts have been signed.

This data shows buyers will continue if the finances work. Many renters remain interested in buying. Many individuals are being relocated by jobs, family, divorce, retirement, and other life changes.

Demand is present for the housing market. The challenge for buyers is affordability.

Home Prices Remain Firm as Market is Inelastic

Housing prices remain unchanged, and in some cases are increasing across the U.S. market, while the number of available homes remains stagnant. There are homes listed for sale, but many neighborhoods still have fewer listings than there are buyers.

The lock-in effect is real, and many sellers have mortgage rates below 4%. These sellers are unwilling to incur the costs of selling their home and buying another at the current higher mortgage interest rates. Many neighborhoods are seeing the effects of the market in an inelastic state.

Some neighborhoods, especially in the Sun Belt, are seeing more listings and more price cuts. Comparatively, neighborhoods with housing shortages in the Northeast and Midwest are unlikely to see substantial price declines. This is why national housing data often is contradictory to local housing data.

Builders Offer Incentives

New construction is key to the housing market. To draw buyers, builders use incentives such as rate buydowns, closing cost assistance, upgrades, and price adjustments.

Today, for some buyers, rate buydowns for new-construction homes may make monthly mortgage payments more affordable than when purchasing an existing home, where no seller concessions were made. But the buyer needs to look at the overall deal. A temporary rate reduction for the first year or two may not be the best option for the buyer in the long term.

Buyers should consider what happens after the temporary rate ends. Check the final payment amount. If the builder paid for the rate buydown, check whether the home’s sale price increased as a result. More Common

In 2026, more sellers paid seller concessions to assist buyers with prepaid costs, with closing costs being the highest paid seller concession. Most buyers could afford the monthly mortgage payment, but were short of funds to cover prepaid costs, closing costs, and the required escrows.

Seller concessions made a significant difference for FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional buyers. Sellers who did not negotiate were likely to remain on the market, particularly in areas with high inventory. Sellers who were realistic about the price and helped with costs had a better chance of going under contract.

Importance of FHA, VA, USDA, and Non-QM Loans

In today’s market, government, alternative, and non-QM loans are vital.

The FHA loan is great for first-time homebuyers, as well as for people with lower credit scores and higher debt-to-income ratios. Loan programs for Veterans are incredibly advantageous for those who qualify. They provide 100% financing and do not charge monthly mortgage insurance. USDA loans are also available for those buying homes in the more rural and suburban areas.

Non-QM loans are gaining traction as borrowers who are self-employed, real estate investors, bank-statements, 1099 borrowers, and those with credit scores below 720 to get the borrower into the right loan program to address their concerns, rather than assuming that one loan program denial means the borrower will never qualify for a loan.

What Mortgage Loan Officers Are Seeing Right Now

Many mortgage loan officers are seeing prospective borrowers who require an extensive strategy to close due to complex files.

The files themselves relate to problems with debt-to-income ratios, credit card and bank statement collections, student loans, self-employed income, part-time income, and variable, unstable income due to recent employment, as well as issues with late payments, collections, and bank statement deposits that are difficult to explain.

This is why stronger pre-approvals mean borrowers signing contracts to buy a house. Home buyers on a house-hunting strategy need a precise solution before signing an offer. This is why realtors need an accurate lender. A bad pre-approval means wasting time, money, and missing out on a great house.

What Buyers Should Do This Week

Buyers should not wait to review financing until they have a home to purchase. It is best to get a full review as early as possible.

What Buyers Should Do This Week

Buyers should review their credit and clean up any new debt. Buyers should try to clean up their bank statements by documenting all transactions and avoiding any job changes. Buyers should also ask their lender about seller concessions, rate buydowns, down payment assistance, and other loan programs.

The right structure can get a buyer approved for a loan.

What Sellers Should Do This Week

Sellers should be aware of how much inventory is on the market locally, the average days on the market, how much prices drop, and what buyers have to say about homes. The 2026 homes will not be the same as the 2021 market. Buyers are way more sensitive to the monthly payment.

Homes listed beyond a reasonable price tend to be ones buyers suspect are listed for a reason. Listing a home at a reasonable price and being flexible on closing costs will typically attract more desirable offers.

The highest price is not always the most desirable offer. The offer with the strongest guarantee of closing is the most desirable.

What To Watch Next

The mortgage markets will continue to evaluate Treasury yields, inflation reports, oil prices, labor statistics, and comments from Federal Reserve officials. Continued signs that inflation is not under control will keep borrowing costs elevated. Signs that inflation is improving will help to reduce the cost of borrowing.

Housing reports coming out later in the summer will reveal whether May’s sales bump is the start of a sustained improvement or just a temporary sales spike.

Bottom Line

The housing market on Monday, June 22, 2026, is difficult but not dead. Even though it is harder to get a mortgage, it’s more difficult to afford a house, and home prices are still elevated. People are still submitting offers, and sales and pending sales of existing homes are both increasing.

This is not a market for guessing. This is a market for preparing.

Borrowers should have solid pre-approvals, clean docs, and the right expectations regarding payments, and should work through the mortgage process. Sellers should work through the process of optimal pricing and may also offer assistance with closing costs or rate buydowns.

The buyers and sellers who work through all of these processes in the 2026 market should have the greatest likelihood of closing the sale.

Partnership Models for MLOs, Owners of Mortgage Net Branches, Branch Managers; Brokerage Joint Venture, Merger, and Third-Party Marketing Agreements

There are several ways to create mortgage branch partnerships. Some MLOs choose to start their own Mortgage Net Branch, while Branch Managers may join independent branches to build stronger teams. Other options include joint ventures, marketing partnerships, referral agreements, or full mergers.

No single partnership model works best for everyone. The right choice depends on factors like licensing, compliance, pay, hiring, marketing, loan volume, and your long-term goals. Take time to think about these before deciding.

With so many options, mortgage professionals can find partnerships that align with their goals. Picking the right model now can help avoid problems later.

Below are some of the most common partnership models, each with its own benefits and challenges. For example, an MLO might choose to start a Mortgage Net Branch.

Starting a Mortgage Net Branch

This approach lets the MLO do more than just approve loans and run a whole branch. Success depends on smart hiring, careful adherence to rules, producing many loans, and strong support from the sponsoring company. Important parts include controlling branch costs, handling marketing, and setting the MLO’s power over other loan officers.

Consolidation of Two Mortgage Net Branches Into a Single Branch

When two branch managers work together to create a larger branch, this collaboration can reduce costs, strengthen leadership, attract skilled staff, and make resource sharing easier. Consolidation is most effective when both branches share similar values. It’s important to review their compliance history and clearly outline how costs, control, and decision-making will be handled.

Limited Business Contract Between Two MLOs

Two competing MLOs may form a limited partnership to work together on certain referral sources, marketing projects, or areas without fully combining their businesses. In these partnerships, MLOs need to agree on who brings in business, who owns borrower relationships, how pay and costs are handled, and how the partnership will end.

Agreement Between Two Branch Managers

Branch managers can share resources without fully merging. For example, one branch may be better at marketing while another is stronger in operations, hiring, or product knowledge. This works best when each manager has different strengths. The agreement should clearly explain roles, payments, and rules to follow.

Third-Party Marketing Agreement

Mortgage professionals can also create third-party marketing agreements with other industry experts or companies.

These agreements should be checked to ensure compliance with rules, written down, fairly priced, and confirmed to meet RESPA, advertising, licensing, and consumer disclosure requirements.

Joint Venture Model

Independent companies can use this model to start a new business. It often includes systems for sharing leads, hiring, processing referrals, training, or marketing. The agreement should clearly explain ownership, how profits and costs are shared, who runs operations, who checks rules, and what happens to ideas or products if someone leaves.

Shared Services Model

• This model works when several branches or brokerages share resources like processing systems, marketing, recruiting, training, technology, or office support.
• Each branch stays independent but shares costs to save money.
• Before finalizing the agreement, clearly explain how employees, expenses, data, following rules, borrower privacy, and file ownership will be handled.

Full Branch or Brokerage Merger

Merging branches or brokerages can simplify systems, increase production, and improve hiring and negotiation. However, mergers have risks. Before moving ahead, review leadership roles, costs, debt, brand image, staff, licensing, company culture, pay, and history of following rules.

• Who owns the borrower relationship?
• Who controls marketing and branding?
• Who incurs the expenses?
• How is the division of revenue structured?
• Who has the authority to hire or manage employees?
• Who is responsible for compliance?
• Who bears the burden if one side does more work?
• How does the partnership end, and what does it look like?
• How is the duration of the partnership established?
• How is a dispute settled?
• Can either side leave the partnership without reason?
• Mortgage branch partnership models can help your business grow but moving too quickly or trusting a handshake rather than a written agreement can cause problems later.

If you are a mortgage professional, branch manager, broker owner, MLO, recruiter, processor, or compliance expert, your feedback and ideas are welcome to help improve this model using proven practices.

Starting Mortgage Net Branch: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024

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rumble.com

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I lost two brand new HP laptops. The first one was brand new I purchased from Best Buy in Kenosha, Wisconsin but did not open the box until mid to late 2025. I took it in to UBREAKIFIX in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Kai Knight was my technician and did everything humanly possible to no avail. I purchased a second HP laptop earlier this year. Took it in to Kai Knight at UBREAKIFIX and again, the brand new laptop is no good. Kai Knight told me the motherboard was shot. My wife forward me the video short below about Captcha and Running Malware. After watching the video short I attached below, I will reach out to Kai as well as Sapna and Yogesh and forward this post to see if they see something that may be the cause of me trashing two brand new laptops. Thanks.

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My husband and I recently moved to Indiana from WA, we sold our home there which was a VA loan, however we had late payments on the mortgage due to some health things I went through last year. We know are trying to find a new option for living as currently living with a friend to get our self established in new jobs in a new state but we really need to find a 4 bedroom and the price or rent compared to buying is so crazy, I dont know that we can requalify for a VA loan with the late payments but he does get a 70% disability rating through the VA. What other options might we be able to explore. I know this month I got rid of a car loan that was my daughters on my credit and so we are trying to raise the credit scores to also help with the approval process. Also to note for the loan amount question above we found a property that is at 380,000 on market but there is also a few higher and lower that we would be willing to look at the amount changing if we could get some kind of approval to not have to rent. (Another lender told us our only option is to rent for a year) Email is best contact for me, thank you for your time.

All in all, can I get a VA Loan with Late Payments in Past 12 Months and if I cannot, what can I do to rebuild and re-establish credit to get approved for a VA loan or another type of alternative home loan. Thank you.

I have a few questions where I am getting conflicting answers. Let’s say a homebuyer bought a house for $400,000 with an FHA loan with a down payment assistance program where the Lender awarded the buyer a 3,5% non-forgiveable 3.5% second mortgage at 0% interest rate. However the down payment awarded needs to be paid back when the homeowners either sells the house or refinance their home. Can you please go over the specific case scenarios. What if the homeowners do not have enough equity w payment to do a cash out refinance to satisfy the DPA. Can the owners do an FHA STREAMLINE REFINANCE and will the DPA be subordinated and allowed without paying it back? What happens if the home take a major market value depreciation and the owners are forced to sell it because they can no longer afford it. They can pay off the first mortgage but not the second.

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Artificial Intelligence is growing exponentially faster than anyone has never imagined. Many licensed professionals in the real estate and mortgage industries are witnessing what will happen to their careers as a real estate agent, real estate broker, mortgage loan originator, branch manager of a mortgage net branch, mortgage broker company owner, correspondent lender, mortgage banker, mortgage processor, mortgage loan underwriter, appraiser, and third-party vendor of the housing and mortgage industry such as a real estate attorney, insurance agent, property manager, or other. Will artificial intelligence eliminate jobs completely like how the internet wiped out Blockbuster, and technology wiped out industries such as Betamax, VHS, etc.? There are many fears among those in the real estate and mortgage professions. Almost half of the folks and companies registered on the NMLS is no longer licensed and have given up or found some other field. Chat GDP, Claude AI, Perplexity AI, Venice AI, Poe.com AI, Co-Pilot AI, GROK AI, Gemini AI, and dozens of other AI’s are advancing and seems it is replacing Google and other search engines.

GCA Forums Daily Mortgage News for June 8, 2026: Mortgage updates, the changing markets, and Google’s AI content policy market insights.

GCA Forums Daily Mortgage News for June 8, 2026: Impacts of Google’s AI-Generated Content Policy on the Mortgage Industry

The title effectively highlights the primary search focus and emphasizes the news’s topical relevance to current search engine developments.

Introduction to Today’s Mortgage Market Overview

Navigating the economy in mid-2026 remains a significant challenge for the mortgage industry. As of June 8, 2026, mortgage rates demonstrate slight stability amid fluctuations in Treasury yields, global markets, inflation, and other economic factors.

Gustan Cho Associates and GCA Forums serve as market liaisons, providing timely updates to support real estate professionals and mortgage loan officers in serving their clients and expanding their networks.

Variable rates across mortgage options are providing flexible opportunities for prospective borrowers in conventional, government, and specialized programs. GCA Forums remains committed to market education through daily mortgage news. Enhanced consumer literacy in the mortgage industry is essential for informed, timely financial decisions in the housing market.

Predicted Mortgage Rates For June 8, 2026

On June 8, 2026, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage remained steady, reflecting a balance between bond market performance and signals from the Federal Reserve. Analysts indicate that certain sectors that peaked earlier in 2026 have begun to ease, potentially benefiting individuals seeking to refinance or obtain new mortgages.

Financing costs continue to be influenced by employment and geopolitical data. Recent employment reports have contributed to increased costs, although the market retains some flexibility.

Mortgage professionals recommend locking in rates that align with individual financial circumstances, as costs may rise further and rates are unlikely to decrease predictably in the short term. More lenient mortgage options are now available, providing potential buyers with greater flexibility compared to recent years. Regular monitoring of platforms such as GCA Forums is recommended for staying informed about the latest developments.

This Week’s Major Mortgage Market News

A recent steady-demand mortgage report showed a resilient market, especially for first-time home buyers and buyers with non-traditional credit or income.

Regional market balance inventories have created a more favorable environment for buyers, and increased purchases are being reported for borrowers with unique lending situations.

Movements in Treasuries, inflation, and other economic indicators are critical for predicting interest rates. Gustan Cho Associates relies on expert teams dedicated to monitoring these changes to secure favorable outcomes for clients.

A Look at Google’s Perspective on AI-Generated Content in 2026

Content creators, website owners, and mortgage professionals often discuss how search engines perceive content developed with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence. Google has avowed and maintained that writing content with the assistance of AI tools does not, in itself, attract a penalty. The focus, rather, is on the content’s quality and usefulness, as well as how well it serves the user’s needs.

As with Google’s famous helpful content, drafting, research, and ideation with the assistance of AI are favorable, provided the content demonstrates expertise and real value and is improved and reviewed by a human.

Content that is low quality and that, with the main purpose of manipulating rankings, is mass-produced, will be treated with the same scrutiny, regardless of how it was created.

For mortgage sites and forums such as GCA Forum, content is most effective when it provides clear explanations of loan options, rates, and trends in borrower qualification. Incorporating real-world experiences and factual information addresses users’ and customers’ needs and interests.

Google’s EEAT Standards and High-Quality Content

Websites that emphasize original analysis, timely updates, and user-focused writing across content and design enhance their credibility. News reports that summarize daily mortgage updates, reflect current market conditions, avoid sensationalism, and offer practical recommendations are more likely to be regarded as trustworthy.

Google now evaluates content using its EEAT standards. For mortgage-related content, it is essential to draw on industry experience and expertise, ensure thorough research, cite reputable sources, and clearly present the author.

Human oversight further ensures accuracy, relevance, and an appropriate tone, which is particularly valuable for individuals seeking mortgage guidance.

Mortgage professionals can enhance their reports by articulating insights beyond basic summaries. Informative and concise reports that incorporate real borrower examples or compare products and solutions are valuable and likely to improve search visibility.

Existing Market Conditions: Recommendations for Mortgage Content Creators

Effective preparation of online resources requires rigorous industry research and logical, structured writing. These elements are particularly important when addressing topics such as interest rate fluctuations and credit or loan qualifications.

Wherever possible, include real-life examples and evidence.

This may explain the challenges mortgage borrowers will likely face in 2026. AI-generated text must be edited and updated regularly (like a daily news report) to maintain relevancy and accuracy.

This creates the impression that you have a real stake in mortgage content. Utilize specific, related terms such as mortgage market updates, home loan trends, and borrowing options to enhance content quality and avoid keyword stuffing.

Why Mortgage News that is Timely and Relevant is Important

News updates (eNews, such as those provided by GCA Forums), deliver daily reports on current mortgage offerings and clarify the lending process. These reports facilitate understanding by including rate analysis, discussions of relevant market and economic factors, and practical recommendations.

Such resources support informed decision-making and foster trust among clients, brokers, and agents. Tons that address concerns with brevity are appreciated by both professionals and consumers.

As this dedication builds over time, greater prominence becomes the reward in search results. For customized mortgage advice tailored to individual circumstances, consult Gustan Cho Associates or affiliated mortgage professionals. These experts can provide insights into how current market conditions may influence specific mortgage objectives.

Trends in the Mortgage Industry

Recent system changes and evolving borrower preferences are reflected in the introduction of new loan programs. Many lenders now prioritize flexibility in underwriting diverse financial circumstances.

Real estate professionals emphasize the importance of staying informed about both broad and niche market trends. Access to consolidated resources can help reduce frustration associated with the financing process.

Concerns Over Mortgage Search Visibility and Content

In 2026, What Helps Mortgage-Related Content Rank in Searches?

Top-ranking mortgage content provides concise, thorough, and clearly formatted answers to searchers’ questions. Content that is well-written, logically structured, and demonstrates the author’s expertise tends to perform well, especially when consistently updated. Trust and authenticity are prioritized over content that appears mass-produced, regardless of its source.

Does the Use of AI Tools Infringe on Mortgage Websites’ Ability to Rank Well?

The use of AI tools does not inherently compromise strong search rankings. Google evaluates content based on its usefulness and quality. When AI assists in organizing information, and professionals refine and supplement it with real-world examples, the resulting content can meet high standards. Emphasis should remain on content quality and audience value rather than quantity.

For Optimal Results, How Frequently Should Mortgage News and Guides Be Refreshed?

To achieve optimal results, mortgage news should be updated daily or multiple times per day as market conditions change. Comprehensive guides should be refreshed regularly to reflect the latest rates, guidelines, and economic developments. This approach supports strong search engine rankings.

What is the Importance of the Author in Mortgage Content?

Mortgage content gains credibility when the author is clearly identified. Experienced authors produce more specific and valuable content, which is appreciated by both search engines and users. Including knowledgeable citations further enhances search rankings.

What are the Main Concerns When Writing About Mortgages, Rates, and Loans?

Accuracy is essential when writing about rates and loans. Information must be substantiated and not misleading. Honest reporting of marketplace conditions and recommending consultation with licensed professionals are best practices for serving users and improving search rankings.

How Does an Online Mortgage Forum and Blog Enhance Consumer Engagement?

Streamlined content maintains reader engagement and increases the likelihood of repeat visits. Sections should be concise and include easily scannable key points. Integrating related topics where appropriate adds value, while ensuring that comment sections and the blog remain informative and interactive.

What is the Difference Between Average and High-Quality Mortgage Content?

High-quality mortgage content addresses specific needs, ensuring relevance and originality. Achieving this requires a balanced mix of information, findings, and explanatory context. Careful use of sales language is important. Frequent publication of high-quality content, including media and summaries, helps maintain audience engagement.

For additional information about current mortgage options, the team at Gustan Cho Associates offers a range of competitive solutions for all borrower profiles. Contact the team to begin the home financing process.

Last Updated:

This article delivers user-focused content with original insights and contextual analysis. All information and data are sourced from established, reputable references to ensure accuracy and effective indexing.

how does UWM one percent rate buydown for fist year work? From what I heard was that Rocket Mortgage offered a one percent mortgage rate buydown with NO points. I don’t quite understand how that works. From my understanding, that means the first year, the rate is reduced by 1.0$ from the going market rate and starting year two, it goes back to what the market rate is. Many unanswered questions is how does the one percent mortgage rate reduction from the market rate work? What happens year two? What mortgage rate will the borrower get? Will it be a fixed rate or adjustable rate? How does UWM 1% rate buy down with NO DISCOUNT POINTS compare to Rocket Mortgage one percent rate buydown? Again, from my understanding, Rocket Mortgage started this 1% rate buydown for the first year and UWM followed. Thank you.

What Is a 3-2-1 Buydown Mortgage?

gustancho.com

What Is a 3-2-1 Buydown Mortgage?

A 3-2-1 buydown mortgage is a type of loan that starts out with a low rate and increases over three years until it reaches its permanent rate.

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Globalist and Democrats believe in depopulation especially Bill Gates, Joe Cheatin Lying Biden, Barack and Michael Robinson Obama

https://youtube.com/shorts/Fey6xVCWxzo?si=7KCqBwbJA7qOzFhM

I know UWM does ONE-TIME CLOSE NEW CONSTRUCTION ON ONE TO FOUR UNIT MULTIFAMILY HOMES

I have a owner occupant two unit primary home occupant ONE-TIME CLOSE NEW CONSTRUCTION homebuyer and I have a OBE-TIME CLOSE Two Unit Multi-Family Investor

Need to know type of loan program, LYV, abd terms of the loan

Thank you

This thread is a very important one. A little off topic from what we were covering but extremely important. The mortgage industry is very complex and in many instances, there are situations where it does not make sense. Let’s cover the type of mortgage company you as a newer MLO want to start your career. What I am covering on this thread is 100% truth, transparency, and sometimes difficult to prove but if you have an average IQ, you will figure out what I am saying makes all the sense in the world. Remember one thing, that there is NOT a thing (big or small) in the mortgage industry. There is a lot of money to be made in the mortgage industry, and that is why there are many unethical and not so transparent people in the industry. Here are they type of lenders you will work with:

1. Direct Lender (Full-Eagle Mortgage Banker- uses their warehouse line of credit to fund loans. They originate, process, underwrite, close, and fund government-backed (FHA, VA, USDA) and conventional loans using their warehouse line of credit. After they fund loans, they then package up the loans they fund and group them together and sell it on the secondary mortgage market. The secondary market can be a larger mortgage banker or it can be Fannie Mae and/or Freddie Mac. Usually, a bunch of smaller mortgage bankers will sell the loan their fund to a larger mortgage banker and the larger mortgage banker will sell it directly to Fannie Mae and/or Freddie Mac. With the proceeds the mortgage banker gets from the sale of the funded loans, they will pay down their warehouse line of credit and repeat the process again. That is how mortgage banking works.

2. Mortgage Brokers: Mortgage Brokers are middlemen between a wholesale lender and the consumer. You need to be licensed to be a mortgage broker. Mortgage brokers have limited liability because they do not use their own money (warehouse line of credit) to originate and fund loans. However, mortgage brokers can develop lending partnerships with wholesale lenders. Wholesale mortgage lenders are NOT licensed and cannot originate loans to the public unless they have a retail division that is NMLS licensed. The maximum compensation a mortgage broker can make is 2.75% yield spread premium for the whole mortgage company. For example, if NEXA Lending has a wholesale relationship with United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM), the maximum yield spread premium UWM can compensate NEXA Lending is 275 basis points which is 2.75% of the original mortgage loan amount. Out of the 275 basis points, NEXA then pays out the branch office its share which is 220 basis points, where the branch pays its loan officers from the 220 and pays their bills with the difference. One thing to note is that the higher yield spread premium a mortgage broker or mortgage banker charges, the higher the rate to the borrower. Most mortgage bankers cannot survive with a 2.75% yield spread premium or compensation due to their high overhead. Most direct lenders need to charge 5% to 9% or even higher. Many instances, NEW MLOs think they got a great deal say from CrossCountry Mortgage or New American Funding because they go a 2.5% compensation where the maximum compensation a mortgage broker can offer them is 1.50%. Well, what that means is the mortgage banker is charging a higher rate to the consumer and may even include points. I want to stop this thread here to give you all to digest. This is a very important topic that many experienced MLOs do not know or cannot understand the concept. Please feel free to ask any questions you have. By asking questions, MLO TRAINING e-Learning Bootcamp will be an all-in-one, one-stop mega learning center. Please read the attached guides:

Yield Spread Premium Charged By Mortgage Brokers

Types of Mortgage Lenders and How To Choose The Right One

Difference Between Mortgage Brokers Versus Lenders

gustancho.com

Yield Spread Premium Charged By Mortgage Brokers

The maximum Yield Spread Premium mortgage brokers can make is 2.75% whereas mortgage bankers are exempt and have no cap

In this thread, we will discuss and cover the mortgage process leading to closing. Now since the borrower has an executed real estate purchase contract as well as the addendums, the mortgage processor is assigned to the file. The mortgage processors job is to structure the borrower’s file with all the required document to submit to a mortgage loan underwriter. The goal of the mortgage processor is to label the files, make sure that all files are complete, make sure the appropriate letter of explanations are attached to employment gaps, prior bankruptcy, prior housing event, prior late payments and/or derogatory credit tradelines, declining income, multiple jobs, prior collection and charge-off accounts, credit inquiries, credit disputes, periods of irregular income, and any irregular information. The goal of the loan officer and mortgage processor is to submit the file to underwriting and have the underwriter issue a conditional loan approval with as little conditions as possible. The difference between a mediocre processor and a great processor is the great processor will NOT submit a mortgage loan file that is incomplete, has missing pages, and the mortgage underwriter will kick it back or suspend the file. A mediocre mortgage processor submits a file half assed where it is not uncommon for the underwriter to return back the conditional loan approval with dozens of conditions. There are times when mortgage underwriters will stop underwriting the file and just kick back the file to the mortgage processor and state the account is in suspense. One of the biggest reasons for delays in a clear to close and closing is because of the incompetence of the mortgage processor. The mortgage processor plays a super important role in the mortgage process.

Mortgage Process Leading to Closing for Borrowers

gustancho.com

Mortgage Process Leading to Closing for Borrowers

The mortgage process leading to closing is important for borrowers to avoid delays and stress during the home purchase and mortgage process

GCA Forums News: Thursday, June 19, 2025

Each Thursday, the GCA Forums pull together the stories that matter. What follows is a quick, no-frills survey of where the housing market sits, what the economy is up to, and how the political winds are blowing right now, on June 19, 2025.

Housing and Mortgage News: Federal Reserve Holds Course, Rates Sit Tight

• Jerome Powell and the remaining Federal Reserve board huddled on June 18 and decided to keep the federal funds rate at 4.25%-4.5%.
• That means four meetings in a row with no change, which is a sign they want to play it safe.
• Most Wall Street watchers had been betting on two quarter-point cuts by Christmas, but the chairman hinted that talk of tariffs, especially anything new from the President, cast a long shadow over those plans.
• Powell pointed out that inflation dropped from 3% in January to 2.4% in May, still above the 2% bullseye the central bank likes.
• Jobs keep coming at a respectable clip.
• The unemployment rate is 4.2%, and May added 139,000 new positions.
• Because the tariff dust-up could rekindle price pressures, odds are the Fed will wait until at least September, maybe December, before loosening the screws.
• Mortgage rates have been around 6.7% to 7% for a while.
• Bankrate pegs the average 30-year fixed at 6.9% in late April 2025, and some insiders think it won’t dip below 6.5% until at least 2026.
• That stubborn ceiling comes from shifting bond yields, especially the important 10-year Treasury, even if the Federal Reserve finally eases up on its hikes.
• All this puts pressure on monthly mortgage payments, which still feel steep next to a median home price that climbed to $416,900 early this year, double the $208,400 recorded in 2009.
• On the national stage, the housing scene looks like a slow-motion tug-of-war.
• By April 2025, total listings will hit levels we haven’t seen since early 2020, especially in Southern cities such as Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta.
• Yet buyers are sitting on their hands; sky-high rates and a jittery economy have chilled the market, so even price cuts in places like Austin aren’t enough to spur fast sales.
• The Northeast and Midwest tell a different story, with inventories so slim that competition keeps pushing prices upward.
• Analysts say many would-be buyers don’t feel safe committing while job security wobbles and borrowing costs eat into their budgets.

Renting vs. Buying

• Most still wrestle with the age-old question.
• Lease your landlord or own your front yard?
• Right now, the math isn’t obvious, and many city dwellers feel like renting is the safer bet.
• Mortgage rates are high, and prices creep higher, so a monthly check to a landlord doesn’t hurt much.
• However, rising rents fueled by inflation and skimpy supply are pushing others to shell out for a down payment even when money feels tight.
• Short-term budgets often look better on a lease, but homeowners eye the day rates fall to the low- or mid-6 percent range and lock in long-term stability.
• Ultimately, the right pick rides on local trends, how steady your job feels, and which line item sits at the top of your financial to-do list.

Economic Updates: Inflation, Unemployment, and Cost of Living

• Inflation is still in the headlines.
• The Consumer Price Index clocked in at 2.4% during May.
• That number slid from the 3% we saw in January, but still hovers above the Federal Reserve’s 2% wish line.
• Looking ahead, economists predict the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index may hit about 3% by 2023.
• A big piece of that puzzle is the tariffs first put in place under the last administration: the 25% now on automobiles from Canada and Mexico, the 55% pinch on China, plus a steady 10% base duty on other goods.
• Because of those levies, the sticker price on shelves could keep climbing, meaning everyday budgets feel a little tighter.
• On the job front, the unemployment rate holds at 4.2%.
• Solid payroll additions have propped it there, yet fresh claims are creeping up, and some analysts warn the figure may nudge to 4.5% by December once tariff headaches scale up.
• As for living expenses, rent chews through paychecks.
• First, wheel borrowers see monthly notes that top $1,000 in 20% of cases, and then groceries, fuel, and other staples keep inching upward.

Stock and Bond Markets

• A quiet lift swept through the stock markets the morning before the Fed spoke on June 18.
• The Dow picked up 0.35 percent, the S&P edged up 0.37 percent, and the Nasdaq tagged 0.48 percent.
• Tariff news and inflation whispers kept traders on edge, making every tick feel bigger than it was.
• Bond buyers still watch the 10-year Treasury like a weather vane, knowing its yield fast-tracks changes in mortgage rates.

Real Estate and Mortgage Industry

• Higher interest rates are sticking around, with home buyers rubbing their temples over monthly payments.
• New-home sales did jump 11 percent from March to April 2025, yet the overall vibe feels flat and thin.
• Selma Hepp from Cotality says some neighborhoods are practically frozen because sellers refuse to cut prices while buyers wait.
• To loosen the logjam, mortgage lenders are trying fresh tricks, including buy-now-pay-later plans that let shoppers smooth out costs for a few years.

Tariffs That Pressure Prices

• Tariffs can steal the Spotlight whenever trade numbers hit the news.
• President Trump once slapped a 25 percent markup on Canadian steel and a similar tag on Mexican imports.
• The figure jumps to 55 percent on many goods from China.
• Jay Powell, who chairs the Federal Reserve, has warned that those duties are a red flag for rising prices and slower growth.
• Even so, Trump has kept pushing Powell to slash interest rates, labeling him stupid and demanding cuts that would shave almost a full point off borrowing costs.
• The central bank insists it will stick to the hard data, no matter how loud the politics get.

Mortgage Fraud under the Spotlight

• As of June 19, 2025, news cycles are still waiting on New York Attorney General Letitia James to spill more beans about the mortgage fraud complaints lingering in her office.
• The CFPB, the FBI, and the U.S. Attorney General have not leaked fresh indictments or grand jury summonses, which usually signal the action is heating up.
• Legal watchers guess the probes are either moving at a crawl or stuck in an early review, far from jury boxes or courthouse benches.
• The staff at GCA Forums News keeps its ears open, ready to pounce on any headline that breaks the deadlock.

Trump Administration and Cabinet Controversies: Public Confidence and Leadership

• President Trump took the oath of office again on January 20, 2025, and the country still feels roughly split down the middle.
• Supporters rave about lower unemployment and what they call a gutsy tariff plan that, in their eyes, keeps goods cheap while safeguarding American factories.
• Detractors warn that the same protections could stoke a price surge and rattle overseas trading partners.
• This is a slice of the base expected fireworks—almost arrests after Election Day, especially aimed at names like the Bidens or DHS head Alejandro Mayorkas.
• So far, June 19, 2025, finds the rumor mill buzzing but public documents empty.
• Without hard proof and court filings to back the claims, the proposed misconduct fades to talk around kitchen tables rather than legal showdowns.

Attorney General Pam Bondi

• Pam Bondi steps into the Justice Department with a tough-on-drugs, tough-on-fraud résumé polished during her years as Florida’s top prosecutor.
• Trump loyalists see her as quick to deliver justice and quick to defend the White House, which makes them cheer.
• Critics, however, raise eyebrows whenever she opens a case since they fear loyalty could eclipse fair play in Washington’s often-watchful courts.

Patel and Bongino Surprise Many

Out of the blue, the White House appointed Kash Patel as FBI director and Dan Bongino as No. 2. Social media lit up almost instantly.

Kash Patel’s Resume Under Fire

• Patel has a patchwork career. He worked as a public defender, picked up a few national-security gigs, and once helped senior Republicans on Capitol Hill.
• However, several former prosecutors insist that his record doesn’t stack up against the heavy-crew experience the Bureau usually leans on.

Bongino Once Walked a Beat-Then Spun New Media

• Bongino hit the streets as a rookie NYPD cop and guarded President Obama for a few years.
• Since then, he has grown his podcast audience into the millions, but none of that work has taken him back into an investigative bureau in over a decade.
• Investigators inside the FBI say that the gap and the breakneck pace of new tech make his candidacy shaky.

Comment Sections Turn Into Focus Groups

• Chat threads on GCA Forums News and Reddit are cantankerous.
• Many voters now fear that the hirings lean more toward political loyalty than to the hard-nosed credibility the Bureau has always tried to project.

Trump, Musk, and the Big Beautiful Bill

• Donald Trump and Elon Musk run their business chats under a chaotic sky of Hope and Hustle. Musk, who now jokes about heading DOGE- the Department of Government Efficiency- is poking around federal paperwork and trying to trim the fat.
• People keep buzzing about the Big Beautiful Bill, a one-stop plan to chop spending, but the text is still scribbled on a whiteboard as of June 19, 2025, and nobody has pasted the pages online for inspection.
• Rumor has it Musk’s digital detectives are spotting wasted paper and rusty servers, yet the loud talk about fraud in the Biden years rests on hearsay, and no one has pinned hard proof in the open files.
• Some analysts call the pairing a power handshake that oils Trump’s deregulatory engine, even if Musk sometimes tweets back a slow www dot.

Headlines from L.A. and Beyond

• Reports of fires or street clashes in Los Angeles on June 19, 2025, have not appeared on any trusted wire or the buzz feeds that usually jump first.
• The GCA Forums News crew double-checked the streams and returned empty, so chalk the riot rumors up to bad intel or bored speculation.
• On the brighter side, Acuña Jr. launched a first-pitch homer onto Willets Point during the Mets-Braves matchup, and MVP chatter is rolling hotter than those summer bleachers.
• Injury news isn’t as cheery; the Astros have shelved McCullers Jr. with a sore toe, meaning Houston will juggle arms for at least a week while the X-rays cool off.

Entertainment Update

• Twenty-one pilots recently turned a London street into pure circus energy while filming The Contract.
• Fans quickly nicknamed the drama Drumgate after a stage percussion piece vanished in the crowd.

Geopolitical Tensions

• The spat between Israel and Iran has traders eyeing the oil ticker.
• Any surprise shooting match could push crude prices upward and raise inflation.

U.S. Economic Scene June 19, 2025

The mortgage bar sits near the top shelf, and lawmakers still debate the next Fed move. Tariffs have pinched many goods, so shoppers feel it whenever they reach for a cart.

Politicos can’t stop bickering over the FBI chief pick and those loud, never-happened indictments.

GCA Forums News will watch the current and file updates as they break. Could you check back for tomorrow’s round?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RpsffsdH84

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