Homeownership Hub

Homeownership Hub is an all-inclusive resource with content to assist in the home-buying process. Navigate all phases of the homeownership journey with trusted tips, strategies and resources. It’s your one-stop shop for information related to home buying or owning the home of your dreams.

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The Rising Appeal of New Construction Mortgages: A Smart Move in a Low Inventory Housing Market

Looking to buy a home but frustrated by low housing inventory? A new construction mortgage could be the perfect solution.

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Fairway Mortgage Helps Storm Victim

Nicole Richert is a Fairway loan officer whose house was destroyed by a tree during a huge storm in Houston in May of 2024. After learning she had made a mistake and had inadvertently let her insurance lapse, Nicole had no idea where to turn. Then her employer Fairway heard about her plight.

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Rate Buydowns Help with Affordability, but a Wide Portfolio of Mortgage Options Is the Ultimate Tool

A conversation with Fairway Branch Manager Paige Bowman on when an interest rate buydown works best, and how she starts the conversation with prospective buyers and Realtors®.

This Mortgage Program Empowers Renters To Become Homeowners — With an Extra Green Incentive

Renters can get up to $13K toward homeownership with HOPER’s incentive program combined with an FHA solar loan. Save on utilities, earn cash, and build equity—with little to no money out of pocket in many cases.

February 28, 2025

Should You Choose a 40-Year Mortgage? Pros, Cons and Savings Potential

Considering a 40-year mortgage? This extended loan term can lower your monthly payments, improve affordability, and offer more financial flexibility. But it comes at a cost. Is a 40-year term the right choice for you?

January 27, 2025

What Are Non-QM Home Loans, and Who Are They For?

Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) loans are flexible mortgage options designed for borrowers who may not meet traditional lending criteria, such as self-employed individuals or those with more unique income streams.

L.O. Confidential: Season 5

The mortgage industry's only behind-the-scenes docuseries about mortgage Loan Officers. Season 5 of LO Confidential follows three teams from Fairway Home Mortgage as they battle their way through one of the toughest downturns in history.

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MBA Dials Back Home Price Drop Forecast Maintains Rate Projections

After forecasting home prices to drop 2.5% in late 2022, the MBA is now predicting a steadier, more expensive housing market.

Already Up 10% Single-family Rent is Expected to Keep Rising

Single-family rent grew 10.2% year-over-year in September, sounding alarm bells for individual home buyers and Wall Street investors alike.

Fairway Loan Officer Tyler Osby: There's a Lot More To Lose as Rates Go Higher

Fairway Branch Manager Tyler Osby's advice for prospective homebuyers is simple: Don't miss this opportunity for low mortgage rates.

Home Sales Rose in October as Buyers Hedged Against Inflation

Existing-home sales increased in October suggesting that first-time homebuyers and investors are hedging their inflation concerns.

Millennial Baby Boom: How to Get Your House Ready for Your New Arrival

Data suggests there's an incoming Millennial baby boom. Here's how millennial parents can prepare their homes for their growing families.

October Homebuilding Report Brings Mixed News for Homebuyers

Single-family home starts and completions fell in October as homebuilders faced headwinds. However, there's a silver lining for homebuyers.

Wall Street Is on a Single-family Home Buying Spree: Here's What it Means for Ordinary Homebuyers

Investment firms on Wall Street are making single-family home purchases a larger part of their strategy. What does that mean for homebuyers?

Three Ways the Pandemic Changed Home Buyers and Sellers

With a full year of pandemic housing data, it's becoming more clear how home buyer and sellers have changed due to COVID-19.

How to Dispute Your Credit Report and What to Expect

Credit score directly impacts your loan type and credit score. So what if there's a mistake? Here's how to dispute your credit report.

FHA Streamlines and Expands Access to Manufactured Home Loans

After calls from the White House to expand access to affordable housing, the FHA is streamlining its guidelines for manufactured home loans.

Homeowners are About to Start Selling Survey Says

A survey finds there are substantially more homeowners planning to sell this fall than there in the spring. What that means for buyers.

Down Payment Assistance: 50-State Guide To Homebuying Programs (With Map)

Down payment assistance can make homeownership easier to attain. Use this state-by-state guide to find options in your area.

When Will Home Prices Drop? Mortgage Bankers Association Forecasts Price Declines by Second Half of 2022

If you're wondering when home prices will drop, here's some good news: properties could become more affordable later this year.

Stay in the Hunt Advises Mortgage Planner Ashley McKenzie-Sharpe

Mortgage Planner Ashley McKenzie-Sharpe shares why 2021 isn't another 2008 and her advice for homebuyers facing a competitive market.

Zillow Pulls the Plug on iBuying. Does it Matter to Regular Buyers and Sellers?

After losing $380 million, Zillow is closing its iBuying business arm and laying off 25% of its workers. What does this mean for homebuyers?

As a Homebuyer You Can Turn Inflation From an Enemy to a Friend

Inflation is soaring after a year of supply chain disruptions and labor challenges. What that means for homebuyers now and in the future.

Freddie Mac Seeks to Increase OnTime Rent Reporting and Improve Renter Credit Scores

A new Freddie Mac initiative incentivizes apartment owners to report on-time rent payments to credit bureaus and help renters build credit.

Aging in Place: How To Thrive in Your Home Throughout Your Retirement

Aging in place has physical, emotional, and financial health benefits but takes some planning. Here's what to consider before aging in place.

This Isnt the Foreclosure Wave Youre Looking For Doomsday Predictions Appear Grossly Overblown

Foreclosure activity increased in the second half of 2021, but is far below historic normal and hardly the "foreclosure wave" some predicted.

Do I Need Flood Insurance And 3 Other Climate Change Insurance Questions To Ask When You Buy a Home

As flooding increases, more homeowners would benefit from having flood insurance. Here's what you should know about protecting your home.

Redfin Data Shows an Abnormally Hot October Housing Market

Redfin data shows the October housing market was much busier than previous years and, in some ways, hotter than September.

5 Housing Trends Homebuyers are Watching for in 2022

2021 has been a tough year for many homebuyers. Here are five trends prospective homebuyers are keeping an eye on for next year.

Home Emergency Preparedness How To Stay Safe in a Crisis

Disasters strike without warning. Use these home emergency preparedness tips to protect you, your family, and your home from disasters.

Federal Reserve Announces Taper Plan Clearing Way for Higher Mortgage Rates

The Federal Reserve announced a plan to taper its asset purchases beginning this months. Here's what that means for homebuyers.

Can 3 People Buy a House? What to Know About Multiple Owners on a Loan

Can 3 people buy a house together? Yes they can, but the process is a little different. This guide breaks down what to expect.

Will Home Prices Grow 19 or 16 in 2022 Right Now Its Anyones Guess

How high will home prices go in 2022? CoreLogic's year-over-year forecast of 1.9% sounds good for homebuyers, but should raise some flags.

Home Building Costs Remain Elevated Why Arent There More Homes to Buy

Home building costs fell slightly in September but remain elevated. Here's why inventory remains low despite high construction spending.

New Home Supply Holds Steady Despite September Sales Surge

New homes sales jumped 14% in September and the number of new homes still for sale held steady. Here's what that means for homebuyers.

Realtors Expect Buyer and Seller Traffic to Plateau in Coming Months

A survey of Realtors® shows that home buying and selling traffic is expected to plateau in coming months. Here's what that means for buyers.

MBA Forecasts Record Volume of Home Purchase Loans in 2022

MBA (Mortgage Bankers Associations) forecasts predict a record year for home purchase loans in 2022. Here's what that means for homebuyers.

How to Protect Your House From Wildfires and Other Climate Hazards

Nowhere in the U.S. is immune to climate hazards. Planning ahead not only protects you and your family, but the investment in your home.

Most Households Have a Pet Heres How They Impact Real Estate

Nearly two-thirds of U.S. households have a pet. Here's how pets impact real estate for sellers, buyers, and industry professionals.

Lenders Offer $625,000 Conventional Loans More Than $75,000 Above 2021 Loan Limits

Anticipating an increase in 2022 conforming loan limits, some mortgage lenders are offering conventional loans up to $625,000.

Waiving Inspection Not a Surefire Way To Win a Bidding War per Zillow Report

Despite a dramatic increase in bidding wars over the summer, waiving inspection has not been an appealing strategy to buyers or sellers.

October Is the Best Month to Buy a Home Sales Data Shows

ATTOM's analysis of 33 million home sales over 8 years shows that October is the best month to buy a home. See how other months compare.

Initial Forbearance Request Deadline Extended for VA FHA USDA Loans

CFPB extends the deadline to request initial forbearance for borrowers with government-backed loans facing COVID hardships.

Housing Trends Includes Three Encouraging Signs for Homebuyers

A September housing trends report features three encouraging signs for homebuyers sidelined by the record-breaking summer market

Report 72% of Non-Homeowners with Student Debt Believe Loans Will Delay Home Purchase

Nearly three-quarters of non-homeowners with student loans believe this debt with delay their first home purchase. See who's most affected.

What FEMAs Updated Flood Risk Rating System Means for Homeowners

The updated FEMA flood risk rating system directly impacts insurance premiums for many homeowners. See which homeowners it will impact.

Climate Change and Real Estate Should Climate Risk Determine Where You Should Buy a Home

Climate change is becoming a greater factor in real estate decisions. See what today's homebuyers should consider as they shop for homes.

DASH Act Seeks to Offer a $15,000 First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit

The Decent, Affordable, Safe Housing for All Act, or DASH Act, proposes giving first-time homebuyers a tax credit of $15,000. Get the details here.

Biden-Harris Administration to Expand Access to Affordable Housing: Foreclosures, Manufactured Homes, 2-4 Unit Properties

The Biden-Harris administration has big plans to increase affordable housing supply in the U.S. Here's what's in the White House plan to help homebuyers.

Report Homebuyers Find This Home Feature as Important as Price

The latest Consumer Housing Trends Reports gives a snapshot of homebuying in 2021. See which home feature is valued as highly as price.

How To Get a Good Credit Score and Why It Matters

Your credit score is crucial when it comes to getting a mortgage. Here are some tips for how to get a good -- or great -- credit score.

LIFT Act Proposes 20-Year Mortgages in a New Approach To Closing the Housing Gap

The LIFT Act of 2021 proposes a 20-year loan program through HUD that would help homeowners build home equity faster. See who would qualify.

Fresh HPI Data Shows Where Pace of Home Price Increases is Slowing

Home Price Index data shows where home price gains are decelerating across the US, giving homebuyers an aerial view of the housing market.

LGBTQ+ Housing Discrimination Still Inhibits Wealth Creation. How Things are Changing

LGBTQ+ discrimination in homeownership still bars the path to wealth creation. Here's how it looks and what you can do about it.

DACA Recipients Are Now Eligible for FHA Loans

New federal guidelines enable DACA recipients to purchase homes with FHA loans.

National Guard Home Loans: You May Qualify For Zero Percent Down

National Guard home loans are now more accessible, thanks to a recent rule change. See which Guard members can qualify early.

The Keys to Buying A House With Low Income

Buying a house with low income comes with a little extra headwind, but it is by no means impossible. Here's how to get started.

Home Loans for First Responders: How Americas Heroes Can Get a Piece of the American Dream

These home loans for first responders help thank America's heroes for their service to our communities.

CDC Eviction Moratorium and COVID19 Forbearance Guide. Know Your Rights and Resources

Eviction moratorium and forbearance programs can help people facing COVID-19 hardships stay in their homes. Get to know your options here.

Life Insurance for Homeowners Why You Need It and How To Find the Right Plan

Homeowners should carry life insurance to protect loved ones left behind. A payout can mean your family can afford to stay in the home.

New Credit Score Rule Will Help Dual-Income Households Buy a Home

A new credit score rule from Fannie Mae will help co-borrowers qualify if one has a good credit score and the other does not. Here's what you need to know.

Here's Why You Should Find Homeowners Insurance Early in the Homebuying Process

Your lender needs your homeowners insurance policy information ASAP after you find a home. How to find homeowners insurance the right way.

One Stat from NAR Could Give You Hope as a Homebuyer

NAR just came out with an encouraging report for homebuyers. What first-timers can expect this fall.

Bidding Wars Are Cooling Off New Data Shows

Recent data from Redfin shows bidding wars are becoming less common. See which markets see the most and least bidding wars.

What Is a Lender Credit And How Do You Get One

A lender credit is one way to overcome the upfront costs of buying a home. See how it works and when this option is worthwhile.

Major Metros Are Swapping Families for Individuals Through Migration

Urban-to-rural migration continued in the first half of 2021 with individuals replacing the families leaving major metro areas.

What Happens if You Break a Lease: Here's What To Know

Knowing what happens if you break a lease could save you time and money as you navigate a fast-paced housing market.

Its Official Boise City Is the Worst Kept Secret in Housing

Homebuyers migrating inland from the West Coast have rapidly turned Boise City housing market into one of the least affordable in the U.S.

Why Homebuying in 2021 Is Different Than the Mid 2000s

With home prices rising at record pace, it's hard not to draw parallels to the mid-2000's. Here's why homebuying in 2021 is different.

How Much Is Mortgage Insurance And Is It Worth It

Mortgage insurance allows homebuyers to get a loan when putting less than 20% down. Use this guide to learn how it works and what it costs.

Credit Expert Breaks Five Homebuying Rules to Win a Bidding War

Credit expert Beverly Harzog broke five homebuying rules to win a bidding war with 28 other offers. See her strategy and advice for others.

Inventory Up Median Price Down in July Existing Home Sales Report

The NAR's July existing home sales report featured encouraging signs for inventory and median sales price. But progress is not evenly spread.

Single Family Rent Is Skyrocketing and it Could Be the Tip of the Iceberg

Single-family rent grew 7.5% year-over-year in July 2021, the largest increase since 2005. Here's why this trend is likely to continue.

FHA Single Unit Approval: How to Get a Condo Approved

The FHA single unit approval process ensures that a condo unit is a sound investment for the borrower and lender. Here's how it works.

Funding Date vs Closing Date: When Do I Get the Keys to My House?

Understanding the difference between your funding date vs closing date can keep your home purchase on track.

VA Mortgage Relief: Plan to Reduce Payments by 20 Percent or More

VA mortgage relief options under the VA's COVID-19 Home Retention Waterfall include payment reductions of 20% or more.

How Does a Reverse Mortgage Loan Work? It's Not Magic, It's Your Home Equity

How does a reverse mortgage work? Understanding how to tap into your hard-earned home equity can improve your retirement finances.

Millennials Were Already Leaving Metro Areas, COVID Just Gave Them a Push

Data suggests millennials have been finding a foothold in affordable interior regions since 2019 — the pandemic accelerated that migration.

USDA Loan Income Limits: Find Out if You Qualify

USDA loan income limits vary based on where you live, but they're a key factor in USDA eligibility. Learn more in our guide.

Fed Cites Progress Waiting For Stronger Jobs Numbers Before Tapering

Despite hints at progress, homebuyers should expect little change in mortgage interest rates following July's Federal Reserve meeting.

9 Types of Conventional Loans: Everything to Know About These Popular Mortgages

There are several types of conventional loans, each with unique advantages. Finding the right mortgage puts you a step closer to closing.

92 Trillion in Senior Home Equity is the Largest Asset Pool Youve Never Heard Of

Senior home equity hit a record-high $9.2 trillion in the first quarter of 2021. Why aren't more retirees tapping this massive asset pool?

Four Charts that Show the Pandemic Home Building Shift

Like everything else, the pandemic drastically changed home building. These four charts show which areas are seeing the greatest change.

FHA Loan Mortgage Insurance: How Much Will You Pay?

FHA loan mortgage insurance allows borrowers to get a mortgage even if they can't make a 20% down payment. Here's exactly how it works.

Oregon Becomes First State to Ban Real Estate Love Letters

Oregon is the first state to ban real estate love letters due to fair housing concerns. See why it may not be the last state to do so.

Biden Proposes Mortgage Relief Program 2021 Up to 25 Payment Reduction

A preliminary plan from the Biden administration calls for up to 25% in mortgage payment reduction for struggling homeowners.

Pros and Cons of FHA Loans: 17 Myths Busted

Learning the pros and cons of FHA loans will help you figure out if this 3.5% down mortgage is right for you.

Nixed Adverse Market Fee Makes Refinancing More Affordable

New leadership at the FHFA eliminated the much-despised adverse market fee, reducing the cost of many conventional loan refinances.

Family Is Key to the Hispanic Homeownership Surge

The Hispanic homeownership rate has increased for six straight years. See how these homebuyers are overcoming obstacles to achieve success.

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit for $25,000? No, But the Proposed Down Payment Benefit Is Even Better

Instead of a first-time homebuyer tax credit, proposed legislation would give eligible homebuyers up to $25,000 in down payment assistance.

Sellers Starting to Give Ground After Year of Calling the Shots

For more than a year, the homebuying market has been tilted to heavily favor sellers. Recent signs suggest a turning point has been reached.

USDA PMI: Do You Pay Mortgage Insurance on USDA Loans?

USDA PMI is a misnomer, as private mortgage insurance is unique to conventional loans. But USDA loans require their own version of mortgage insurance. Find out how much you might pay.

How Does a Reverse Mortgage Loan Work When You Die?

How does a reverse mortgage work when you die? Here's what happens to your home, reverse mortgage loan, and loved ones when you pass.

How To Get a VA Offer Accepted: 7 Tips To Stand Out in a Hot Market

We share 7 tips for how to get a VA offer accepted, even when they're not popular with sellers.

Millennial Homebuyers Arent Keeping Up With Older Generations Heres Why

Although the make up the largest share of the market, millennial homebuyers are struggling to keep up with previous generations.

All Cash Home Sales Are On The Rise Who is Using Them and Where

In response to a red-hot housing market, the percentage of all-cash home sales are rising. See which homebuyers are using cash and where.

Black Homeownership Rates Are Stagnant But Help May Be On the Way

Juneteenth is a reminder of racial inequality in America, which is apparent in the gap between White and Black homeownership rates.

VA Loans Have Quietly Offered the Lowest Mortgage Rates For 7 Years

VA loans have offered the lowest mortgage rates for the last 7 years. See why these rates are so low and who qualifies for this loan type.

Consumers It's a Bad Time To Buy a House and a Worse Time To Rent

In a survey, a majority of consumers said they believe it's a bad time to buy a house... but they'd still rather buy than rent.

Houses R Us How Empty Retail Buildings Could Turn Into Housing

A bill in the California legislature seeks to rezone abandoned retail spaces into housing. What would that mean for the housing market?

Heating Up 2021 Summer Home Sales Projections

Using the average year-over-year growth for Q1, we paint a picture of what 2021 summer home sales could look like if the market stays hot.

Mixed May Jobs Report Wont Send Mortgage Rates Soaring

With interest rates lingering around 3%, it's natural to wonder what will make them rise again. A mixed May jobs report is a warning shot.

Home Affordability Rankings Reveal the Best Kept Secret in Housing

A look at home affordability rankings for U.S. metro areas reveals the extremes of a hot housing market and the best kept secret in housing.

FHA Loan Credit Score: Do You Qualify?

FHA loan credit score requirements start at 580 for 3.5% down payment loans. But you may be able to qualify with a score as low as 500 if you can make a larger down payment.

Physician Loans Remove Homeownership Hurdles for Medical Professionals

Physician loans are tailored to help medical professionals buy homes despite unique situations like new employment and high student debt.

Fannie Mae RefiNow and Freddie Mac Refi Possible Cheaper Refinancing is Coming

Refinancing could get less expensive with two new programs hitting the market in 2021: Fannie Mae RefiNow and Freddie Mac Refi Possible.

FHA Multifamily Loan: Start Earning Rental Income

An FHA multifamily loan allows you to buy a home with 2, 3, or 4 units, live in one, and rent out the rest.