09/15/2026
🏡 A little mortgage insight for buyers, sellers & fellow real estate professionals…
I like to share information that can actually help people make smarter real estate decisions especially in a market where rates, loan programs and financing options can make a BIG difference. One thing I always tell my clients: the purchase price is only one piece of the puzzle. Financing, timing, insurance, inspections, negotiations and the terms of the deal can all affect what a home ultimately costs you. 👇 Here’s Julie’s latest update. Definitely worth a read if buying a home is anywhere on your radar.
And as always, if you have questions about the real estate side of things, I’m happy to help.
Wendy Forgetta | REALTOR®
Rate Snapshot · Week of September 10, 2026
These are national average rates for the week of September 10, 2026. The 30-year fixed is at 6.76% — up 0.05% from last week, FHA at 6.72%, and VA at 6.62%. For exact rates tailored to your buyers, reach out to your loan officer directly.
From Your Lending Partner Why Your Buyer's Rate Lock Window Matters More Than Ever
One of the biggest mistakes I see buyers make right now is waiting too long to lock their rate. With volatility baked into the market, a float can cost more than it saves. Here's what I tell every buyer I work with: once you're in contract and your timeline is clear, we lock. The question is for how long. A 30-day lock works if closing is tight. A 45- or 60-day lock gives you breathing room and yes, it may cost a touch more upfront, but it eliminates the stress of watching rates tick up the week before close. I also offer a float-down option on some programs, which means if rates drop after locking, the buyer can capture the improvement. This is a real value-add conversation you can have with your clients before they even write an offer. When you set expectations early, you avoid the panicked calls when the market moves. Send me your buyers early and I'll walk them through the options.
Conventional loans designed for moderate-income buyers:
Fannie Mae's HomeReady and Freddie Mac's Home Possible offer 3% down conventional financing with reduced MI rates for income-qualifying buyers often beating FHA on monthly cost. ✓3% down with no income limits in low-income census tracts ✓Reduced private mortgage insurance vs. standard conventional ✓Boarder and rental income can count toward qualifying ✓Homebuyer education required can be done online in a few hours
Tip of the Week
Gift funds from family can be used toward a down payment on most loan types your lender will need a simple gift letter.
Your Mortgage Advisor
Julie Grushoff
Clear Choice Lending Group
[email protected]
