The Mortgage Voice

Marry the House, But Only Date the Interest Rate

Jeff advises potential homebuyers in this uncertain financial climate to find a property that is right for them instead of focusing on the high rates. With the shortage of available houses on the market, the window to snap up a property is short and likely has many other applicants. Is the answer to buy now and refinance later when rates drop? Guests Ciro De Palma, Luke Manke, and Bill Orr reveal updates on new loan types, the advantage of cash over financed offers, and the state of home insurance.

Hey Fed, Why Such High Rates?

Jeff tries to make some sense of the continued high interest rates facing the mortgage industry by breaking down some of the contributing factors. Although unemployment has remained under four percent over the past two years, suggesting a robust economy, the Fed shows no indication that it plans to lower rates anytime soon. What implications will this have for those already struggling with high home prices? Guests Michelle Wilde-Powell and Charles Giscombe provide ideas for thinking outside the box when it comes to mortgages.

What Exactly is Stagflation?

Jeff defines the most recent buzzword that many are concerned will be the next step for the economy – stagflation. This is characterized by an economic situation in which the inflation rate is high or increasing, the economic growth rate slows, and unemployment remains steadily high. Is the US headed in that direction and can the Fed do something about it? Guests Mikke Pierson and George Gonzales shed some light on business growth strategies and second mortgages as a solution to consolidate debt.

The Importance of the Human Factor in Real Estate

Jeff examines the potential impact of AI on the mortgage industry, where the latest sector to be affected is the appraisal process. Appraisals are under scrutiny as many push for the efficiency that AI could potentially offer. How much would electronic models miss out on that experienced human professionals bring to the table? What are the employment implications if AI makes some jobs obsolete? Guests Shaun Dennison and Wendy Van Wessel share non-QM products and home equity strategies

Positive Trends in the Marketplace

Jeff notes that there are some bright spots in the market despite the current challenges of high interest rates and low inventory. Unseasonably cold weather in SoCal has not kept prospective buyers from scoping out available homes, regions of the USA are enjoying a 15% decrease in housing prices, and the overall economy is looking strong. Will the Fed take these as a sign to lower rates? Guests Tony Masci and Charles Giscombe have some innovative loan solutions for entrepreneurs and those with non-traditional incomes.