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

Blog

31
Jul
By Todd Grey
Mortgage, ,

Should You Get a Mortgage If You Plan to Move Soon?

Deciding to buy a home when you know you might move within a few years can be a challenging choice. Many people wonder if it makes financial sense to take on a mortgage if they will not live in the property long term. The answer depends on several factors, including your personal goals, market conditions, and your financial situation. Consider Your Time HorizonMortgage loans often come with upfront costs such as closing fees, appraisal costs, and sometimes private mortgage insurance. If you plan to move within a year or two, these costs can outweigh the benefits of homeownership. However, if…
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30
Jul
By Todd Grey
Personal Finance, ,

How to Remove PMI Without Refinancing

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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29
Jul
By Todd Grey
Mortagage Tips, ,

The Effect of Local Job Markets on Mortgage Lending

When evaluating the housing market, many people focus on home prices and interest rates. However, one critical factor that often goes unnoticed is the strength of the local job market. Employment trends directly affect mortgage lending by influencing both buyer demand and lender confidence. Why Local Employment MattersA stable job market means more people have consistent incomes, making them more likely to qualify for home loans. Lenders assess local employment data when determining mortgage risk in a particular area. If job growth is strong, lenders are typically more willing to offer loans, knowing that borrowers are less likely to default.…
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28
Jul
By Todd Grey
Financial Reports, ,

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 28th, 2025

Very little was released this week due to the major inflation data releases from the previous week. The Leading Economic Index was the most significant—and only—impactful release this week, showing a further decline in overall sentiment about the current economic situation. The majority of the decline was largely driven by expectations for business conditions. The decline was faster than expected, enough to warrant continued monitoring of the Leading Economic Index going forward. Leading Economic IndicatorsThe Conference Board Leading Economic Index for the US declined by 0.3% in June 2025 to 98.8, after no change in May (revised upward from -0.1%…
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25
Jul
By Todd Grey
Mortgage Tips, ,

The Effect of Local Job Markets on Mortgage Lending

When evaluating the housing market, many people focus on home prices and interest rates. However, one critical factor that often goes unnoticed is the strength of the local job market. Employment trends directly affect mortgage lending by influencing both buyer demand and lender confidence. Why Local Employment MattersA stable job market means more people have consistent incomes, making them more likely to qualify for home loans. Lenders assess local employment data when determining mortgage risk in a particular area. If job growth is strong, lenders are typically more willing to offer loans, knowing that borrowers are less likely to default.…
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