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Buying real estate is even more challenging for those of us whose eyes glaze over at the mere mention of decimals, percentages or anything else that even hints of mathematics.


The financial aspect of purchasing the largest investment of your lifetime, though, is the most important. Nobody wants to lose money. Nobody wants to leave money on the table.


If you're in the market for information on mortgages, credit scores and interest rates, you've come to the right place. The financial and mortgage pros here at ActiveRain even tell you how to shop for and compare lenders, how to raise your credit score, how to get a mortgage after a short sale or foreclosure and how to get pre-approved for a mortgage loan. Even Mom and Dad can't give the great advice you'll find here at ActiveRain.


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Recent blogs on Lending / Financial
By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
Are you investing for retirement? If so, what is YOUR plan?Best Investments (image by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi from Pixabay)What is the BEST investment for retirement? Some may tell you: IRA, Stocks, Treasury Bonds, Crypto, or Mutual Funds. Wait, what is better than ALL of those. That would be a down payment on your first home. Mortgage rates declining even makes it better. It is time to build generational wealth.Read what Dave Ramsey says about Down Payment Math and Strategy for buying your first home. Read on...OK! Tell me more...(photos by Robin Higgins, Pixabay)Hint! Saving for a Down Payment to buy a home is also the BEST way to save for retirement. What gives? Seems strange, doesn't it? Save for a down payment on a home before saving for retirement. That is what financial guru Dave Ram...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  The Haney Group  |  Coldwell Banker Heritage What Buyers Should Know About FHA Loans in Ohio Expert guidance from Douglas Haney, Lisa Ackerman & Brad Shuman — helping Ohio buyers make confident, informed decisions. At The Haney Group with Coldwell Banker Heritage, our agents — Douglas Haney, Lisa Ackerman, and Brad Shuman — have guided numerous Ohio buyers through the homebuying process, including navigating FHA financing. Whether you're a first-time buyer or returning to the market, FHA loans remain one of the most powerful tools available — if you know how to use them. Browse current homes for sale across our markets and see what's possible at your price point.    What Is an FHA Loan? An FHA loan is a government-backed mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (HUD). Th...
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By Mike & Cindy Jones, Real Estate - (904) 874-0422 - Jacksonville, Fl
(Florida Homes Realty & Mortgage)
Adjustable-rate mortgages in 2026 are starting to gain attention again as buyers look for ways to manage higher interest rates. But are ARM loans a smart strategy for today’s homebuyers, or could they create financial risk down the road?If you’re thinking about buying a home in Jacksonville, Florida or anywhere in today’s market, understanding how adjustable-rate mortgages work is critical before making a decision.What Is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage?An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a home loan that begins with a fixed interest rate for a specific period of time and then adjusts periodically based on market conditions.You’ll often hear terms like:• 5/1 ARM• 7/1 ARMThis means your rate is fixed for the first 5 or 7 years and then can adjust annually after that.The appeal is simple — A...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
The core CPI and PCE data have been released, leaving only the non-core CPI data delayed. Amid the Iran war, inflation has once again risen to higher levels, with most sectors seeing widespread price increases due to higher fuel and energy costs. As fuel costs rise, there is a knock-on effect across other consumer products as well. However, inflation has remained within expectations when considering the impact of the war.PCE IndexShortly before the start of the Iran war, a key measure of U.S. inflation rose at an excessive pace for the third month in a row, underscoring the latest challenge facing the Federal Reserve as it tries to squelch stubborn price pressures. The personal-consumption price index, the Fed’s preferred price gauge, rose by 0.4%, matching the forecast of economists.Co...
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By John Lake, Sarasota and Cape Cod Mortgage Ba
(Shamrock Home Loans)
It’s completely understandable to feel some frustration right now. After the progress we saw in February, the market has certainly thrown a curveball. The short answer is: it’s making the timing more challenging, but it hasn’t closed the door entirely.As of today, April 13, 2026, here is how those two factors are specifically impacting your refinance math: The "Inflation Tax" on RatesInflation is the natural enemy of mortgage bonds. When the conflict in Iran pushed oil prices toward $110 a barrel, it acted like a "tax" on everything from gas to groceries. The Impact: Because the market expects this to keep inflation "sticky," investors are demanding higher yields. This is why we’ve seen rates hover in the mid-6% range recently, rather than dropping back into the 5s. The Geopolitical "Tu...
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By Doug Jones, Mortgage Broker - NMLS 286668
(Mortgage Magic)
California state Sen. Ben Allen, D-Pacific Palisades, introduced legislation Friday that would require property insurers to give policyholders six months' notice before dropping their coverage and explain the specific reasons for doing so.Senate Bill 1301 would also prohibit insurers from nonrenewing a policy solely because a policyholder inquired about a claim, filed a claim that was not paid, or filed a claim that fell within their deductible.California policyholders face the fourth highest rate of nonrenewals in the nation, according to a 2024 congressional investigation. The state's FAIR Plan, which serves as the insurer of last resort, has seen its total exposure increase by 230% since 2022.Under the bill, policyholders would have the opportunity to make repairs or adjustments to t...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the continued delay in the CPI and PCE inflation data, this week’s headlines will focus on unemployment figures. Job reports show an increase of 178,000 workers, though this growth is unlikely to persist given the current state of the economy. Unemployment data has also shown a positive release, reflecting a slight decrease from the previous report.Since the Federal Reserve discontinued rate cuts in December, the outlook remains highly uncertain as it continues to grapple with numerous aspects of the current economic environment.Unemployment DataThe U.S. added a greater-than-expected 178,000 jobs in March and the unemployment rate fell a tick to 4.3%, signs that the labor market is holding firm even as the economy undergoes another spasm of uncertainty tied to the Iran war. The inc...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  Ohio Homebuyer Guide How Mortgage Pre-Approval Works When Buying a Home in Ohio Everything buyers in Springfield, Dayton & Columbus need to know — from documents to DTI to closing day. Talk to The Haney Group First → If you're thinking about buying a home in Springfield, Dayton, or Columbus, one of the first calls you should make is to a trusted local real estate team — and one of the second calls should be to a lender. Getting mortgage pre-approval before you start seriously shopping isn't just a smart move. In today's Ohio market, it's your entry ticket. At The Haney Group at Coldwell Banker Heritage, Doug Haney, Lisa Ackerman, and Brad Shuman work with buyers every day across Springfield, Dayton, and Columbus — and the single most common reason buyers lose homes they love is that t...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
  Your Complete 2026 Guide to USDA Loans — And Why More Buyers Should Be Using Them By Douglas Haney  |  The Haney Group at Coldwell Banker Heritage Most buyers we work with have heard of FHA and conventional loans. Far fewer have heard of the loan program that could be the single most powerful tool available to a first-time — or even repeat — buyer in today's market: the USDA loan. At The Haney Group, we've helped countless families across the region achieve homeownership through programs they didn't even know existed. The USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan is one of the most underutilized, most misunderstood, and frankly, most generous mortgage programs out there. Let's fix that. What Is a USDA Loan? A USDA loan is a government-backed mortgage program administered by the U...
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By Darren Copeland, National Mortgage Broker. KC Market Expert.
(Summit Lending)
🏡 VA vs Conventional: Which One Saves You More in the Kansas City Area?If you are comparing a VA loan vs a conventional loan, the big question is pretty simple: which one actually saves you more money?For many buyers in the Kansas City area, the answer comes down to how much cash you need upfront, what your monthly payment looks like, and how long you plan to keep the home.If you are eligible for a VA loan, it often brings some major advantages to the table. But there are still situations where a conventional loan could make sense depending on your goals.Let’s break it down in a simple way.💵 1. Down Payment: How Much Cash Do You Need?This is usually the first big difference buyers notice.VA LoanWith a VA loan, eligible buyers can often purchase with zero down payment. That means you may...
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By Denise Gentile, REALTOR , Riverside County
(Coldwell Banker Associated Brokers Realty)
As a Realtor in Menifee, I get this question from buyers all the time.  Should they wait for interest rates to drop before buying a home?I talk to a lot of buyers who are waiting for interest rates to drop before they buy a home.  Many are hoping rates will fall from around 6.1% to somewhere in the 5% range before they make a move.But here’s something important to consider.On a $500,000 loan, the difference between a 6.1% interest rate and a 5.9% interest rate is only about $64 per month. That surprises a lot of people, because they expect the payment difference to be much larger.What often matters more than the interest rate is the price of the home and the competition in the market.When interest rates drop, more buyers enter the market, which can drive prices up and create multiple-of...
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By Kimo Stowell, REALTOR®, GREEN - Honolulu Hawai'i
(HI Pro Realty LLC RB-21531 )
               Latest rates, based on 20 percent down, $200,000 owner-occupant mortgages. The rates and terms may vary; check with lenders for details. Rates may have changed click here to verify Wednesday, April 1, 2026  Lender Term/Type Interest Rate % Points % *APR American Savings Bank808-593-1226NMLS#423168 15-YR Fixed 5.125 1.750 5.478 30-YR Fixed 5.875 2.125 6.129 5-YR ARM 5.000 2.125 6.087 Bank of Hawaii877-616-2636 15-YR Fixed 5.375 1.000 5.530 30-YR Fixed 5.875 1.875 6.051 5-YR ARM 5.250 1.875 6.104 Central Pacific Bank808-544-0500NMLS#416603 15-YR Fixed 5.250 1.875 5.675 30-YR Fixed 5.875 1.875 6.137 5-YR ARM 5.875 2.000 6.444 Finance Factors808-548-3300NMLS#449916 15-YR Fixed 5.125 1.875 6.103 30-YR Fixed 5.875 2.000 6.203 5-YR ARM 5.750 1.500 6.664 First Hawaiian Bank808-64...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the current state of affairs, it is not surprising that a majority of the releases scheduled for this week have been delayed until next week. The only notable report set to be released is the consumer sentiment report, which has been showing month-to-month declines. This has led to a very light week, with a heavy slate of inflation data scheduled for release next week. The PCE Index and CPI are both scheduled for next week.Consumer SentimentThe University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index fell sharply to 53.3 in March 2026, down from the preliminary estimate of 55.5 and below February’s 56.6. This places sentiment near record lows observed at the end of 2025, with declines spanning all age groups and political affiliations.Households with middle and higher incomes, as well as ...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
While delayed, the Producer Price Index has indicated that the war in Iran has pushed producer prices to new highs, as oil prices have surged amid the conflict, coming in at more than double the expected value. It is unlikely we will see prices recede, even if there is a quick resolution. There will be long-term impacts that continue to keep gas prices elevated until then.Outside of the influential PPI release, the schedule was relatively slim, with only further discussion of the FOMC rate decision, which largely focused on maintaining the status quo until more data and developments come to light.Producer Price IndexThe producer price index, a measure of pipeline costs that producers receive for their products, increased a seasonally adjusted 0.7% on the month, the Bureau of Labor Stati...
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By Darren Copeland, National Mortgage Broker. KC Market Expert.
(Summit Lending)
Technically, yes — you can buy a house without a realtor. But should you? That’s the bigger question.Buying a home is complex. Without a realtor, you could: Overpay for the property. Without market expertise, hidden costs, comparables, and negotiation leverage can be missed. Handle contracts and inspections alone. One small error could cost thousands or even derail the deal. So how can you protect yourself if you go solo? Hire a buyer’s agent who works for you, not the seller. They bring advocacy, negotiation skills, and guidance. If you truly want to DIY, at least hire a real estate attorney to review all contracts before signing. A skilled realtor does more than find homes — they protect your investment. Skipping one may save commission dollars but can cost peace of mind.Why Going Sol...
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By Christopher Pataki, Hockessin Delaware Realtor
(RE/MAX Associates)
As the tax deadline approaches, many people assume there’s nothing left they can do to reduce their tax bill or increase their refund. The reality is, there are still several smart, last-minute moves you can make before filing your return. With a little attention to detail and a few strategic decisions, you may be able to keep more money in your pocket this year.       One of the most effective last-minute strategies is contributing to a retirement account. If you qualify, you can still make contributions to a Traditional IRA up until the tax filing deadline, which is April 15, 2026. These contributions may be tax-deductible, meaning they can directly reduce your taxable income while helping you build long-term savings. Another key step is reviewing whether to take the standard deducti...
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By Associate Broker Falmouth MA Cape Cod Heath Coker, Heath Coker Berkshire Hathaway HS Robert Paul Prop
(https://teamcoker.robertpaul.com)
Trump Accounts, Financial Literacy, and Future HomeownersOwnership, Financial Literacy, and the New Social ContractTrump Accounts are more than just savings vehicles. They are designed to create an “ownership economy” where every citizen becomes a shareholder in America’s wealth. Today, about 38% of American adults do not own stocks. Over time, Trump Accounts aim to push that number closer to zero by giving every child a starting investment.​This changes how Wall Street and Main Street connect. With Trump Accounts, the success of the stock market and the success of everyday families become more closely linked. When the market grows, so do millions of children’s accounts. That merger of Wall Street and Main Street is part of what Treasury officials describe as a new social contract ancho...
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By Bob Elliot, 30Yrs Experience
(RES Realty)
With the release of the delayed PCE and CPI inflation data reports, the Federal Reserve has chosen to stick to its resolve and maintain the current interest rates. It remains to be seen whether this will result in maintaining them or even increasing rates, as reports have shown that inflation is remaining sticky for the average consumer. This has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflicts with Iran, which have pushed gasoline prices higher.There is some speculation that the Federal Reserve may walk back a rate hike in order to combat this ongoing stubborn inflation, but there is little sign of that yet. Consumer sentiment has also been shown to be dropping, as prices from the conflicts in Iran have impacted consumers.Consumer Price IndexConsumer prices rose at a modest pace in February i...
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By William Cook, Your Mortgage Lending Expert
(Omni Fund, Inc.)
Real estate investors often reach a point where traditional mortgage programs stop aligning with how rental portfolios actually operate. As investors acquire more properties, financing decisions become less about personal income and more about how each property performs financially.This is where DSCR loans have become one of the most widely used financing tools among experienced investors. The structure is designed around the income produced by the property itself, which can create several strategic advantages for investors building or refinancing rental portfolios.Below are four advantages of DSCR financing that many investors discover only after they begin using these loans. 1. Rental Income From Basement Units or ADUs May Be AllowedOne advantage that many investors do not realize is ...
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By Brian Burke, From Hartford to Newport — Local Expertise.
(Coldwell Banker)
Mortgage rates are one of the most closely watched factors in the housing market because they directly affect affordability, purchasing power, and buyer confidence. It is understandable that many buyers and sellers want to know whether rates are likely to decline and when that might happen. The challenge is that mortgage rate movements are influenced by complex economic forces, making short term predictions difficult even for financial experts.From a practical standpoint, the more useful question is not whether rates will go down, but how current rates impact affordability and long term plans.Why Mortgage Rate Predictions Are UncertainMortgage rates are closely tied to broader economic conditions, including inflation trends, employment data, Federal Reserve policy, and financial market ...
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