21 Aug 2025
By Mark Feder

How to Avoid Mortgage Burnout

Mortgage Tips
Buying a home is one of the most exciting milestones in life, but it can also be one of the most exhausting. From house hunting and comparing loan options to managing the financial paperwork and deadlines, the process can become overwhelming. Mortgage burnout happens when the stress and demands of the home buying journey begin to wear you down, making it harder to stay focused and positive. The good news is there are ways to protect yourself from burnout and keep the process manageable. Set Clear Expectations From the StartA big source of mortgage burnout is uncertainty. Understanding the timeline,…
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30 Jul 2025
By Mark Feder

How to Remove PMI Without Refinancing

Personal Finance
Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is often required when a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than twenty percent. While PMI helps lenders reduce risk, it adds extra cost to your monthly mortgage payment. The good news is that you may be able to remove PMI without refinancing your loan. Understanding the options available can help you save money and accelerate building equity in your home. Understand When PMI Can Be RemovedFederal law, specifically the Homeowners Protection Act, requires lenders to automatically cancel PMI once your loan balance reaches eighty percent of the original home value. You can also…
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21 May 2025
By Mark Feder

Pet-Friendly Mortgages And How Owning Pets Could Affect Your Loan Choices

Mortgage Tips
We love our pets, they are part of the family. But did you know that your furry (or feathered) friend could play a surprising role in your homebuying journey? While your dog probably will not impact your credit score, being a pet owner can influence where and how you buy a home, and even the type of loan you choose.As a mortgage originator, I have worked with many clients who did not realize their pets could affect everything from HOA rules to homeowners’ insurance policies. Here is what you need to know before you start the house hunt with your…
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04 Apr 2025
By Mark Feder

Understanding the Role of the Federal Reserve in Mortgage Rates

Mortgage Rates
When you're thinking about buying a home, you may hear a lot about mortgage rates going up or down. But have you ever wondered what causes these changes? One of the biggest influences on mortgage rates is the Federal Reserve, often called "the Fed." While the Fed doesn’t set mortgage rates directly, its policies play a major role in how much you’ll pay for your home loan. Let’s break it down in simple terms: What is the Federal Reserve?The Federal Reserve is the central bank of the United States. Its main job is to keep the economy stable by managing…
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