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30-Year Fixed6.625%-0.125|15-Year Fixed5.875%-0.063|30-Year FHA6.375%-0.125|30-Year VA6.125%-0.063|5/1 ARM6.125%0.000|7/1 ARM6.250%+0.063|30-Year Jumbo7.125%-0.188|15-Year Jumbo6.625%-0.125|CA Avg6.550%-0.080|TX Avg6.720%+0.050|FL Avg6.680%-0.030|NY Avg6.500%-0.100|PA Avg6.450%-0.050|IL Avg6.580%+0.020|OH Avg6.380%-0.070|GA Avg6.650%0.000|NC Avg6.520%-0.040|MI Avg6.480%-0.060|AZ Avg6.600%+0.030|WA Avg6.420%-0.090|30-Year Fixed6.625%-0.125|15-Year Fixed5.875%-0.063|30-Year FHA6.375%-0.125|30-Year VA6.125%-0.063|5/1 ARM6.125%0.000|7/1 ARM6.250%+0.063|30-Year Jumbo7.125%-0.188|15-Year Jumbo6.625%-0.125|CA Avg6.550%-0.080|TX Avg6.720%+0.050|FL Avg6.680%-0.030|NY Avg6.500%-0.100|PA Avg6.450%-0.050|IL Avg6.580%+0.020|OH Avg6.380%-0.070|GA Avg6.650%0.000|NC Avg6.520%-0.040|MI Avg6.480%-0.060|AZ Avg6.600%+0.030|WA Avg6.420%-0.090|
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Mortgage Guide & Blog

Expert articles on mortgages, home buying, refinancing, and personal finance.

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21 articles found
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Rates & Markets·2026-06-12·12 min read

Mortgage Rates in 2026: Complete Trends Analysis & Expert Predictions

A comprehensive analysis of current mortgage rate trends in 2026. Learn what drives rates, expert predictions, and actionable strategies.

The State of Mortgage Rates in 2026

As we move through 2026, the mortgage landscape continues to evolve. Average 30-year fixed rates fluctuate between 6.5% and 7.2%.

Where Rates Stand Right Now

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in 2026 is approximately 6.625%. The 15-year fixed rate is around 5.875%.

Key Factors Driving Rates

1. Federal Reserve Monetary Policy

The Fed's decisions on the federal funds rate directly impact mortgage rates.

2. Inflation Data

CPI reports released each month directly impact market expectations and mortgage rates.

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First-Time Buyers·2026-06-12·15 min read

First-Time Home Buyer Guide 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Roadmap

The most comprehensive guide for first-time home buyers. From saving for a down payment to getting the keys.

Welcome to Homeownership

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting and significant financial decisions you'll ever make.

Step 1: Assess Your Financial Readiness

Before you start browsing listings, take an honest look at your finances.

Check Your Credit Score

  • 740+: Excellent — qualifies for the best rates
  • 700-739: Good — qualifies for competitive rates
  • 660-699: Fair — may face higher rates
  • Below 620: Limited options

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Loan Types·2026-06-12·10 min read

Fixed vs. Variable Mortgage Rates in 2026: Definitive Comparison

Understanding the real differences between fixed-rate and variable-rate mortgages with current 2026 rates.

The Most Important Mortgage Decision

Choosing between fixed and variable rates is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make.

How Fixed-Rate Mortgages Work

With a fixed-rate mortgage, your interest rate is locked when you close and never changes.

How Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Work

An ARM has a fixed rate for an initial period, then adjusts periodically based on a market index.

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Money Saving Tips·2026-06-12·11 min read

12 Proven Strategies to Reduce Your Mortgage Interest

Save tens of thousands in interest with these 12 proven strategies including extra payments and refinancing.

Why Reducing Interest Matters

On a $350,000 mortgage at 6.75%, you'll pay approximately $467,000 in interest over 30 years.

Strategy 1: Make One Extra Payment Per Year

Make one additional full payment each year applied directly to principal.

Strategy 2: Switch to Biweekly Payments

Instead of 12 monthly payments, make 26 half-payments per year.

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Mortgage Basics·2026-06-12·9 min read

Understanding Your Mortgage Payment: Complete PITI Breakdown

Your monthly mortgage payment is more than just principal and interest. Learn exactly what PITI means.

Beyond the Headline Number

Your actual monthly payment is known as PITI — Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance.

P: Principal

The principal portion goes directly toward reducing your loan balance.

I: Interest

Interest is the fee you pay the lender for borrowing money.

T: Property Taxes

Property taxes vary by location. SC has one of the lowest rates at 0.57%.

I: Insurance

Homeowners insurance is required by all lenders.

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