Blog – Todd Grey

10

Feb

Homeowner TipsFirst Time Home Buyer, Home Buying Journey, Mortgage Education

The Hidden Life Moments That Impact Your Mortgage Journey

Buying a home is rarely just about the house. It is about life happening at the same time. Career changes, family growth, health decisions, and financial habits all quietly shape your mortgage experience long before you ever tour a property. Many buyers are surprised to learn that choices made months or even years earlier can influence how smooth or stressful the process feels. Career Shifts Matter More Than You ThinkChanging jobs, becoming self-employed, or moving into commission-based income can alter how lenders view stability. This does not mean you should avoid growth opportunities, but it does mean timing matters. Understanding…

09

Feb

By Todd Grey

Financial ReportsFinancial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – February 9th, 2026

While Consumer Sentiment has inched up slightly, Consumer Credit tells a different story. Credit usage has continued to rise, suggesting increased financial strain on consumers amid ongoing economic pressures such as inflation. Although another rate cut is still expected, its likelihood remains uncertain under the current administration. Consumer SentimentConsumer sentiment was essentially unchanged, inching up less than one index point from last month and sitting about 20% below January 2025. Sentiment surged for consumers with the largest stock portfolios, while it stagnated and remained at dismal levels for consumers without stock holdings.Consumer CreditIn 2025, consumer credit increased 2.4 percent, with…

06

Feb

By Todd Grey

Homeowner TipsHELOC Loan, Home Equity, Mortgage Education

Why a HELOC Works and When It Might Make Sense for Homeowners

For homeowners looking to tap into the equity they have built over time, a Home Equity Line of Credit, also known as a HELOC, can be a flexible financing option. Unlike a traditional mortgage or one time loan, a HELOC gives borrowers access to a revolving line of credit that can be used as needed. Understanding how it works, along with the benefits and risks, can help homeowners decide whether it fits their financial goals. What a HELOC IsA HELOC is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their home. Equity is the difference…

05

Feb

By Todd Grey

Home Buyer TipsHome Buyer Tips, Interest Rates, Mortgages

What Homebuyers Need to Know About Mortgage Interest Rates and APR

When applying for a mortgage, borrowers are often presented with several important numbers that determine the true cost of the loan. Two of the most discussed figures are the mortgage interest rate and the annual percentage rate, also known as APR. While these terms are closely related, they are not the same. Understanding the distinction between interest rate and APR is essential for comparing loan offers accurately and making informed financial decisions. What a Mortgage Interest Rate RepresentsThe mortgage interest rate is the percentage a lender charges for borrowing money. This rate is applied directly to the loan principal and…

04

Feb

By Todd Grey

MortgageHome Buyer Tips, Mortgage Process, Origination Fees

What Every Homebuyer Needs to Know About Mortgage Origination Fees

Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important financial details that can feel overwhelming. Along with your down payment and monthly mortgage payment, there are upfront costs that every buyer should understand before closing. One fee that often raises questions is the mortgage loan origination fee. Knowing what this fee covers and how it affects your overall loan costs can help you feel more confident throughout the mortgage process. What Is a Mortgage Loan Origination FeeA mortgage loan origination fee is an upfront charge from a lender for processing and underwriting your mortgage application. This…