Blog
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 man...
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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-his...
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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 commo...
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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. Homebuyers want a lend...
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June Mortgage Market Update: Housing Market Outperforming Expectations in 2026
Market Insight
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 l...
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May Mortgage Market Update: New Fed Chair Signals a Shift Toward Lower Rates
Market Insight
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.Current expectations...
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April Mortgage Market Update: Stability Returning to the Market
Market Insight
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 ho...
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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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