Mortgage
How an Escrow Account Works on a US Mortgage
An escrow account collects a portion of your monthly mortgage payment to pay property taxes and homeowners insurance on your behalf, ensuring these critical bills are paid on time.
Mark Stevenson
Author
Mortgage rate writer. Tracks Federal Reserve policy decisions, 10-year Treasury yields, and their downstream effect on 30-year fixed and adjustable mortgage rates for US buyers.
- mortgage
- mortgage-rates
- refinance
- home-buying
Published articles
Mortgage
Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages in the US: A Buyer's Guide
Compare fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages to determine which loan structure fits your financial timeline, risk tolerance, and homeownership plans in the US market.
Mortgage
Summer Home Buying 2026: Mortgage Rates and What to Expect After the July FOMC in the US
Mortgage rates remain elevated following the July 2026 FOMC meeting, with the Federal Reserve holding rates steady as inflation persists above target.
Mortgage
VA Loan Eligibility Requirements for Veterans in the US
Learn the service, credit, and property requirements to qualify for a VA home loan in 2026.
Mortgage
5 Situations When Refinancing Your Mortgage Makes Sense in the US
Refinancing your mortgage can save you thousands, but timing matters. Learn the five key scenarios when refinancing makes financial sense for US homeowners.
Mortgage
VA Loan Eligibility Requirements for Veterans in the US (2026 Guide)
Learn who qualifies for a VA home loan in 2026, from service requirements to credit standards and how to get your Certificate of Eligibility.
Mortgage
HELOC vs. Cash-Out Refinance in a High-Rate Environment: A US Comparison
When mortgage rates are elevated, choosing between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance requires careful analysis of rate structures, costs, and your existing mortgage terms.
Mortgage
Conforming Loan Limits 2026: How They Affect Your Mortgage Options in the US
Understanding the 2026 conforming loan limits helps you choose between conventional and jumbo financing and potentially save thousands on your mortgage.
Mortgage
Home Equity Line of Credit Explained: How a HELOC Works in the US
A HELOC lets you borrow against your home equity with a revolving credit line, offering flexible access to funds for major expenses.
Mortgage
How to Compare Fixed-Rate and Adjustable-Rate Mortgages in the US
Choosing between a stable interest rate and a fluctuating one is a critical housing decision. Learn how fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages work in the US to make an informed choice.
Mortgage
First-Time Home Buyer Guide to Getting a Mortgage in the United States
Learn how first-time home buyers can navigate the mortgage process in the US, from pre-approval through closing, with clear explanations of loan types, qualification requirements, and available programs.
Mortgage
VA Loan Eligibility Guide for Veterans Buying a Home in the US in Summer 2026
VA loan eligibility starts with your service history, but approval also depends on the property, occupancy, credit, income, and lender underwriting. Here is the summer 2026 checklist veterans can use before shopping for a home.
Mortgage
Mortgage and Refinance Interest Rates Today in the US: June 28, 2026
Mortgage and refinance rates were slightly lower than earlier in the week, but affordability remains tight. Borrowers should compare APRs, points, and closing costs before locking.
Mortgage
Fed Rate Cuts and Mortgage Rates in the US: What Buyers Can Expect in 2026
Fed rate cuts do not automatically make mortgage rates fall. In 2026, buyers should watch Treasury yields, inflation, and lender quotes more closely than headlines alone.
Mortgage
Mortgage and Refinance Interest Rates Rise in the US: June 3, 2026 Update
US mortgage rates reversed recent declines today, with 30-year fixed rates climbing back above recent lows as bond markets react to stronger-than-expected economic data.
Mortgage
US Mortgage and Refinance Interest Rates Today, June 20, 2026: Fixed Rates Continue to Fall
Fixed-rate mortgage rates in the United States have declined for the third consecutive week as of June 20, 2026, creating opportunities for both homebuyers and refinance candidates.
Mortgage
Mortgage and Refinance Interest Rates Today, Sunday, May 31, 2026: Fixed Rates Edge Lower, ARMs Remain Volatile
Fixed-rate mortgages decline modestly while adjustable-rate mortgages show continued volatility as markets digest recent Federal Reserve signals and economic data.
Mortgage
Fixed vs Variable Rate Mortgage: Which Option Suits Your Situation
Learn how to choose between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage by evaluating your budget, timeline, and risk tolerance.
Mortgage
How to Qualify for an FHA Loan with a Lower Credit Score
FHA loans accept credit scores as low as 500. Learn the exact qualification requirements, down payment rules, and steps to get approved even with challenged credit.
Mortgage
How to Refinance Your Mortgage: A Step-by-Step Guide to Lower Your Rate or Tap Home Equity
Learn how to refinance your mortgage with this complete guide covering credit checks, break-even calculations, rate shopping, and closing the deal.
Mortgage
Tax Planning for Real Estate Investors Before Filing Your Return
Essential tax deductions and planning steps every property investor should review before filing to maximize savings and stay compliant with IRS rules.