Direct: (818) 435-6560 | tgrey@equitysmartloans.com

Blog

19
Nov
By Todd Grey
Home Buyer Tips, ,

Understanding How Debt Affects Your Ability to Buy a Home

Many future buyers think they must eliminate every debt before applying for a mortgage. Reducing debt is helpful, but it is not a requirement for homeownership. You can qualify for a loan even if you have credit cards, student loans or a car payment. What matters most is how well you manage those obligations and how they fit into your overall financial picture. Why Lenders Pay Attention to Your DebtWhen you apply for a mortgage, the lender reviews your debt-to-income ratio. This is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes toward debt payments. A high ratio signals financial…
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18
Nov
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

Mortgages for Vacation Homes vs. Airbnb Rentals

Owning a second home is a dream for many people, whether it is a quiet cabin by the lake, a beachfront retreat, or a mountain getaway. For others, that dream also comes with the potential to generate income through short-term rentals. However, mortgages for vacation homes and Airbnb properties are not the same. Lenders view these two types of homes differently, and understanding those differences can help you choose the right financing option for your goals. What Defines a Vacation Home A vacation home is a property that you primarily use for your own enjoyment. It might be a seasonal…
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17
Nov
By Todd Grey
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – November 17th, 2025

In the aftermath of the recent government shutdown, the expected releases are still delayed. This round of releases is particularly impactful, involving key inflation reports from both the Consumer Price Index and the Producer Price Index. While the Federal Reserve prefers the PCE Index—and also relies on its own methods for collecting inflation data—the delay is undoubtedly troubling for the broader market, as the shutdown disrupted a wide range of services across the nation. The data is now expected to be released next week. Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.01% for this week,…
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14
Nov
By Todd Grey
Mortgage, ,

The History of Mortgages From Ancient Times to Modern Loans

The idea of borrowing money to buy property may seem like a modern concept, but the foundation of the mortgage has been around for thousands of years. From ancient civilizations to today's digital lending platforms, the mortgage has evolved alongside society's approach to property ownership, wealth, and security. Understanding where it began offers a fascinating look at how this essential part of homeownership came to be. Ancient BeginningsThe earliest forms of mortgages can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. In these societies, property owners could pledge land as security for a loan. If the borrower…
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13
Nov
By Todd Grey
Mortgage, ,

Natural Disasters and Mortgages: Forbearance and Insurance Options

When natural disasters strike, homeowners can find themselves facing unexpected challenges. From hurricanes and floods to wildfires and tornadoes, these events can cause major property damage, income loss, and emotional stress. If you have a mortgage, knowing your options for forbearance and insurance relief can make a significant difference in how you recover financially and protect your home. Understanding Mortgage ForbearanceMortgage forbearance is a temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments during times of hardship. After a natural disaster, many lenders and government agencies offer special forbearance programs to affected homeowners. This allows borrowers time to rebuild, repair, or…
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