How to Use Home Equity: 5 Ways to Access It and Put It to Work
Home equity is the difference between your home’s current value and what you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your loan or your property value changes, that equity may grow.
New Fannie Mae Condo Rules: What Real Estate Brokers Need to Know
Fannie Mae has introduced new condo lending guidelines that change how many condominium projects are reviewed for conventional financing. For loan applications dated on or after August 3, 2026, the Limited Review option has been retired, meaning many established condo projects will need a Full Review or must qualify for a project review waiver. Additional reserve requirements take effect January 4, 2027.
July Mortgage Market Update: More Choices, More Opportunity This Summer
The summer housing market continues to build on the momentum we’ve seen throughout 2026. Inventory has improved in many markets, giving buyers more choices than they had a year ago, while home values have remained stable despite higher-than-historical mortgage rates.
Condo vs. Co-op in NYC: Key Differences for Homebuyers
When comparing a condo vs. a co-op in NYC, the biggest differences come down to ownership structure, building approval, financing requirements, monthly costs, and flexibility. Condos typically offer more ownership flexibility, while co-ops are common throughout New York City and may have lower purchase prices but stricter board requirements.
Mortgage Lender vs. Bank: Why Homebuyers Choose GuardHill
Choosing the right mortgage lender is an important part of the homebuying process. Homebuyers choose GuardHill because they want the best combination of rates, service, and ease of process. Buyers want to be treated like VIPs.
June Mortgage Market Update: Housing Market Outperforming Expectations in 2026
The housing market has delivered a stronger-than-expected performance so far in 2026. Despite ongoing affordability challenges and mortgage rates remaining above historical lows, homebuyer demand has remained resilient, inventory levels have improved, and housing activity has exceeded many analysts’ forecasts.
May Mortgage Market Update: New Fed Chair Signals a Shift Toward Lower Rates
The mortgage and housing industry is closely watching new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, who is widely viewed as more supportive of lower interest rates over the long term which has created optimism across the market.
April Mortgage Market Update: Stability Returning to the Market
As the spring homebuying season progresses, the housing market is showing encouraging signs of stability. Mortgage rates have remained relatively consistent, buyer demand is steady as consumers adjust to current rate levels, and housing inventory is gradually expanding as more sellers enter the market. Homeowners also continue to benefit from strong equity positions, creating opportunities for refinancing, debt consolidation, or accessing equity for other financial goals.
March Mortgage Market Update: Signs of an Early Spring Thaw
As we enter the spring home buying season, the housing market is showing early signs of improvement after a challenging couple of years.
Mortgage Broker vs. Mortgage Banker vs. Retail Bank: What’s the Difference?
At GuardHill, we’re both a mortgage broker and a mortgage banker. That means we both underwrite, process, and close loans using our own funds and in our own name, and we can act as a matchmaker, placing borrowers with the lender best suited for their credit profile.