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What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – August 4th, 2025

August 4, 2025 by Robby Oakes

There were several notable releases this last week, with the largest being the PCE Index — the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator. The PCE Index may be the more accurate indicator going forward, as data collection for the Consumer Price Index has been recently cut, thereby reducing its reliability. As expected, the inflation numbers have been steadily rising with the PCE Index, indicating that impacts from the tariffs are now filtering into prices for both producers and consumers.

As a follow up, Personal Income & Spending has had a light upturn after the initial panic with the tariffs. Lastly, the job numbers from last week have been unexpectedly weak, showing a slow down of the economy overall due to many factors.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Financial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

The Risks of Using a Mortgage for House Flipping

August 1, 2025 by Robby Oakes

House flipping, the practice of buying a property, renovating it, and quickly selling it for a profit, can be an exciting and potentially lucrative investment strategy. However, financing a flip with a traditional mortgage carries significant risks that investors should carefully consider before proceeding.

Filed Under: Home Financing Tips Tagged With: House Flipping, Investment Property, Mortgage Risks

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

July 31, 2025 by Robby Oakes

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.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tagged With: Home Buying, Mortgage Tips, Moving Soon

How to Remove PMI Without Refinancing

July 30, 2025 by Robby Oakes

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.

Filed Under: Personal Finance Tagged With: Home Equity, Mortgage Advice, PMI Removal

The Effect of Local Job Markets on Mortgage Lending

July 29, 2025 by Robby Oakes

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.

Filed Under: Mortagage Tips Tagged With: Job Market Impact, Local Economy, Mortgage Lending

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

July 28, 2025 by Robby Oakes

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 caused 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.

Filed Under: Financial Reports Tagged With: Financial Report, Jobless Claims, Mortgage Rates

The Effect of Local Job Markets on Mortgage Lending

July 25, 2025 by Robby Oakes

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.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Job Market Impact, Local Economy, Mortgage Lending

How to Determine Your Ideal Monthly Mortgage Payment

July 24, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Buying a home is one of the most exciting financial decisions you will ever make, but understanding what you can comfortably afford each month is essential for long-term success. Your ideal monthly mortgage payment should not just fit within your budget today, but also allow for financial flexibility and security in the future.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Financial Planning, Home Buying Tips, Mortgage Budget

The Benefits of Mortgage Rate Buydowns

July 23, 2025 by Robby Oakes

When purchasing a home, every detail matters, especially your interest rate. One strategy that many buyers overlook is the mortgage rate buydown. A buydown allows you to lower your interest rate for the first few years of your loan, or even permanently, by paying upfront fees at closing. This option can significantly reduce your monthly payments, offering financial relief when you need it most.

Filed Under: Mortgage Rates Tagged With: Lower Payments, Mortgage Rate Buydown, Mortgage Tips

Are Low Down Payment Programs Right for You?

July 22, 2025 by Robby Oakes

Purchasing a home is a significant milestone, but for many buyers, saving for a large down payment can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, low down payment programs can offer a solution, making homeownership more accessible than ever before. However, before choosing one of these options, it is important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks.

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: First-Time Home Buyer, Home Loan Options, Low Down Payment

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Robby Oakes


Robby Oakes

CIMG Managing  Director
NMLS# 91606

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