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Category: Policy and compliance |
Published

Mortgage financing options in a higher interest rate environment

With mortgage interest rates elevated to levels not seen in many years, homebuyers are more likely to be offered, or seek out, alternatives to fixed-rate mortgages to help lower their monthly mortgage payments. Mortgage applicants should be aware of how these programs work to select the best option for their financial situation.

Category: Data, research, and reports |
Published

Office of Research blog: Higher interest rates leading to higher debt burdens for mortgage borrowers

Mortgage interest rates have been rising sharply in recent months, impacting mortgage borrowers and applicants. Using quarterly HMDA data on closed-end home-purchase loans, we find that monthly payments and debt burdens (as measured by DTI) have increased, with a higher percentage of mortgage application denials reporting DTI as a reason for not qualifying.

Category: Info for consumers |
Published

Climate risk should be considered in housing decisions

Flooding, fire, drought, and other climate risks have always been a danger to property and safety. However, with the changing climate, these risks are increasing, impacting the probability of damage, cost of utilities, price of insurance, and potential resale value of homes.

Category: Info for consumers |
Published

New protections for servicemembers and veterans alert

A recent law provides additional protections for servicemembers affecting VA refinances, medical debt on credit reports, credit monitoring, and stays on foreclosure. Here’s what to look for in the new laws and when they go into effect.

Category: Info for consumers |
Published
Illustration of calculator, iPad and paper tools to help your homebuying process

Three tools to help your homebuying process

As you search for homes and shop for a mortgage, you may find the homebuying process overwhelming at times. To help you take control, we’re sharing a few tools that can help you along the way.

Category: Info for consumers |
Published

Making the decision to rent or buy

Becoming a homeowner is a big decision—both personally and financially. As you decide whether owning a home is the right choice for you right now, here are some financial considerations to keep in mind.