Buying a home can feel a lot like watching a house drift into the sky on a bunch of colorful balloons — exciting, hopeful, and a little unpredictable. But just like that balloon-lifted home, your foundation matters . A smart mortgage plan doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of preparation, timing, and strategy  — and right now, those three things matter more than they have in years. Let’s break down what’s happening this week  in the housing and mortgage world and wha

If you’ve been thinking about buying a home, you’ve probably said (or thought) this at least once: “I’m just going to wait until rates come down.” Totally understandable. Interest rates matter. But here’s the reality most buyers don’t realize: The interest rate isn’t the commitment. The house is. That’s why one of the smartest strategies in today’s market is this: Marry the house. Date the interest rate. Let’s break down what that actually means — and why it works. 🏡 The Hou

Breaking down the signal, the strategy, and what homeowners should actually watch Over the last few weeks, there’s been growing conversation around a potential $200 billion government purchase of mortgage-backed securities (MBS)  — a move that has been signaled  by our government  and discussed more broadly within financial and housing circles. If you’re a homeowner, buyer, or real-estate investor, this kind of headline can feel both exciting and confusing. Let’s slow it down

The real estate market today presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for homebuyers. As a loan officer, I see firsthand how shifting interest rates, changing lending standards, and evolving buyer expectations shape the mortgage process. Understanding these factors can help you make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls when financing a home. This post shares practical insights to guide you through the mortgage landscape with confidence. A modern suburban h

Inflation began the year hotter than anticipated, while Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that the Fed is not “in a hurry” to implement fur

Chris Butler, founder of Smart Loans WA, is a top loan originator and RE expert, dedicated to innovation, excellence, and client success.

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Week of January 20, 2025 in Review Smart Loans WA in partnership with MBS Highway December’s Existing Home Sales hit their highest level...

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Data on new home sales and jobless claims highlighted a quiet week where the markets were closed on Wednesday for Christmas.

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Smart Loans WA in partnership with MBS Highway Despite strong headline job gains reported for November, there are signs of underlying...

Understanding Mortgage Rate Trends

Refinancing your home can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be! Whether you're a seasoned real estate agent or a...

What RE Agents & Homebuyers Need to Know: The Fed’s June 2024 Meeting The Federal Reserve's June 2024 meeting is poised to significantly...

Making Mortgages Less Yawn-Inducing Ever feel like explaining and understanding mortgages is about as exciting as watching paint dry?...