Blog
March Mortgage Market Update: Signs of an Early Spring Thaw
As we enter the spring homebuying season, the housing market is showing early signs of improvement after a challenging couple of years.
Buyer Activity is Picking Up
Buyer demand is strengthening. Mortgage applications and existing home sales h...
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Mortgage Broker vs. Mortgage Banker vs. Retail Bank: What’s the Difference?
When exploring home financing, you will likely come across terms like mortgage broker, mortgage banker, and retail bank. While they may sound similar, they play very different roles in the lending process.
Understanding the difference between a m...
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February Mortgage Market Update
Mortgage rates remain near their lowest levels in years, helping to improve affordability.Affordability is improving: Lower mortgage rates plus slower home price growth gives buyers a better chance to negotiate and qualify for financing.More homes a...
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GuardHill Licensing Requirements
As a mortgage banker, GuardHill is held to some of the highest licensing standards in the industry.
We’re licensed in every state where we do business, which means our loan officers complete required coursework, pass state and federal exams...
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Join our Corporate Mortgage Program
GuardHill’s Corporate Mortgage Program is designed for companies of all sizes to offer as a valuable employee benefit.
Employees receive a corporate discount of up to $750 toward closing costs, while employers benefit by reducing the time e...
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Understanding Cash Out Refinances vs. Closed-End Second Mortgages and Home Equity Loans
Second mortgages let you tap home equity without replacing your first loan—either as a closed-end second mortgage with a fixed rate, or a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) with flexible draws and a variable rate.
Closed-end seconds are pre...
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What Is a QM Loan vs. a Non-QM Loan?
The difference between a Qualified Mortgage (QM) and a Non-Qualified Mortgage (Non-QM) loan comes down to how the borrower’s ability to repay (ATR) is documented and evaluated.
Qualified Mortgage (QM) Loan
A QM loan follows strict federa...
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No Tax Return Mortgage Programs for Self-Employed & High-Net-Worth Borrowers
GuardHill offers no-tax-return mortgage programs designed for self-employed borrowers and high-net-worth individuals who need flexible ways to qualify without traditional income documentation.
How You Can Potentially Qualify
Self-Employed ...
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Condominium vs. Cooperative: What’s the Difference?
The key difference between a condo and a co-op comes down to ownership structure.
With a condominium, you own your individual unit as real estate and receive a deed.
With a co-op, you purchase shares in a corporation that owns the building...
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Understanding When a Refinance Makes Sense
Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move. Understanding when a refinance makes sense can help you potentially lower your monthly payment, reduce long-term interest, or access your home’s equity.
What Is a Mortgage Refinance?
A...
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