Money

Mortgages
Moody’s chief economist warns of deepening housing market slump as 7% mortgage rates bite

With mortgage rates hovering near 7%, Moody’s chief economist Mark Zandi warns of a looming slump in the U.S. housing market unless rates decline soon. The housing sector, once a stabilizer, is now becoming a “full-blown headwind” for the economy.

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 Moody’s chief economist warns of deepening housing market slump as 7% mortgage rates bite
Average mortgage rate falls to lowest level since early April

In a promising development for homebuyers, average mortgage rates have dipped to their lowest levels since early April. This decline offers a glimmer of hope for buyers struggling amidst rising home prices.

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Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Existing-Home Sales Edge Higher in May Despite Mortgage Rate Pressure

Existing-home sales in the U.S. saw a modest increase of 0.8% in May, even as high mortgage rates continued to challenge buyers.

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Fixed-Rate Mortgages

 Existing-Home Sales Edge Higher in May Despite Mortgage Rate Pressure
Fed Says ‘Not Yet’ to Rate Cut, Mortgage Rates Dangle Below 7%

Mortgage interest rates eased this week as the Federal Reserve maintained short-term rates, hinting at potential cuts in the fall. The average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell eight basis points to 6.86%, offering a glimmer of hope for prospective homebuyers.

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

Refinancing Options

Home ownership further out of reach as rising prices widen affordability gap

As mortgage rates climb and home prices soar, many Americans find the dream of home ownership slipping away. Elevated costs are stretching buyers’ budgets thin, widening the affordability gap across the nation.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

 Home ownership further out of reach as rising prices widen affordability gap
The Hidden Costs of Home ownership: What First-Time Buyers Should Know

Owning a home is often seen as a hallmark of personal success and stability. The idea of having a place to call your own, to paint the walls any color you like, and to build memories over the years is undeniably appealing. However, many first-time buyers are unaware of the myriad hidden costs associated with homeownership that extend far beyond the monthly mortgage payment.

 The Hidden Costs of Home ownership: What First-Time Buyers Should Know
Refinancing Your Mortgage: When Does It Make Financial Sense?

Refinancing your mortgage can be a strategic move to enhance your financial health, but it’s essential to understand when it makes sense to take this step. With fluctuating interest rates and various personal financial factors at play, determining the right time to refinance requires careful consideration.

 Refinancing Your Mortgage: When Does It Make Financial Sense?
Mortgage Pre-Approval vs Pre-Qualification: What’s the Difference?

When embarking on the journey to homeownership, understanding the mortgage process is crucial. Two terms that often surface are pre-qualification and pre-approval. While they may seem similar, they play different roles in securing a mortgage and can significantly impact your home-buying experience.

 Mortgage Pre-Approval vs Pre-Qualification: What’s the Difference?
Mortgage 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Home Loans

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. Navigating the world of mortgages can be daunting, especially for first-time homebuyers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the basics of home loans, demystify mortgage terms, and help you make informed decisions on your journey to homeownership.

 Mortgage 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Home Loans
How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster: Tips to Save Thousands in Interest

Owning a home is a significant milestone, but the weight of a mortgage can feel daunting. The good news is, with strategic planning and a few smart moves, you can accelerate your mortgage payoff and save thousands in interest. Here’s how you can take control of your mortgage and become debt-free sooner than you thought possible.

 How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster: Tips to Save Thousands in Interest
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

Applying for a mortgage is a significant financial step that requires careful preparation. One of the most critical factors lenders consider is your credit score. A higher credit score can not only improve your chances of approval but also secure you better interest rates and terms. Fortunately, there are effective strategies you can implement to enhance your credit score before submitting that mortgage application.

 How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage
How Interest Rates Affect Your Mortgage Payments (and What to Do About It)

In the ever-evolving landscape of home financing, understanding how interest rates impact your mortgage payments is crucial for making informed decisions. Over the past few years, fluctuations in interest rates have significantly affected homebuyers and homeowners alike, influencing everything from monthly payments to overall housing affordability.

 How Interest Rates Affect Your Mortgage Payments (and What to Do About It)
Fixed-Rate vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to financing your dream home, choosing the right mortgage is a crucial decision that can impact your financial future. Understanding the differences between fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) is essential in making an informed choice that aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.

 Fixed-Rate vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Which One is Right for You?
FHA, VA, and Conventional Loans: Understanding Your Mortgage Options

Buying a home is a significant milestone, but navigating the world of mortgages can be overwhelming. With various loan options available, it’s essential to understand which mortgage best suits your financial situation and homeownership goals. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between FHA, VA, and Conventional loans to help you make an informed decision.

 FHA, VA, and Conventional Loans: Understanding Your Mortgage Options
Common Mortgage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is exciting, but it can also be fraught with pitfalls that could cost you dearly in the long run. Understanding common mortgage mistakes is crucial to navigating the process smoothly and securing the best possible terms for your new home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you avoid costly errors and make informed decisions.

 Common Mortgage Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Medical debt will soon be banned on credit reports

In a landmark move, the Biden administration is finalizing a rule to remove medical debt from credit reports, potentially boosting credit scores for millions of Americans and easing their path to loans. The rule also bans lenders from using certain medical information in loan decisions, marking a significant shift in consumer financial protection.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

The Container Store, buffeted by rough housing market and competition, seeks bankruptcy protection

The Container Store, a pioneer in storage solutions since the 1970s, has filed for bankruptcy protection due to mounting financial challenges. Increased competition from retail giants and a rough housing market have strained demand, leading to significant losses and cash flow shortages.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Fixed-Rate Mortgages

 The Container Store, buffeted by rough housing market and competition, seeks bankruptcy protection