Blog – Page 6 of 865 – Fred Gruber - First Rate Financial Group

10

Mar

Financial Reports

What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – March 10th, 2025

While the data releases were plentiful, many are made less significant in consideration of the current disruption with the administration and the oncoming inflation data reports with the CPI and PPI arriving next week. The largest and most noteworthy report this time is the Job Report numbers, which will help give a clearer idea on the state of the job market. With the mass federal layoffs, there is much uncertainty, but the labor market is still holding up in light of things. The most pressing data to be released is the predictions for GDP, which has shown to have shown a deflationary value. As long as the inflation data remains consistent then there is little chance the Federal Reserve will consider increasing the interest rates once again. The silver lining in all the reports is the Manufacturing PMI data is noting that the manufacturing sector is still showing strong growth.

Job Reports

The U.S. added a decent 151,000 new jobs in February, but the labor market could soften up in the months ahead as the effects of tariffs, federal spending cuts and mass layoffs of government workers percolate through the economy.

Manufacturing PMI

The seasonally adjusted S&P Global US Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index recorded 52.7 in February, up from 51.2 in January. It was the second successive month that the index has pointed to an improvement in the health of the manufacturing sector, with the rate of growth the best since June 2022. Growth was underpinned by noticeable upturns in both production and new orders. There was some evidence that sector expansion was partially driven by advanced purchases ahead of likely price increases and possible supply disruption related to further tariff impositions in the coming months.

Primary Mortgage Market Survey Index

• 15-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.15% with the current rate at 5.79%
• 30-Yr FRM rates saw a decrease of -0.13% with the current rate at 6.63%

MND Rate Index

• 30-Yr FHA rates saw an increase of 0.05% for this week. Current rates at 6.17%
• 30-Yr VA rates saw an increase of 0.05% for this week. Current rates at 6.20%

Jobless Claims

Initial Claims were reported to be 221,000 compared to the expected claims of 235,000. The prior week landed at 242,000.

What’s Ahead

The major inflationary reports ahead this week with both Consumer Price Index and Producer Price Index are expected to come in line with the previous quarters.

07

Mar

By Fred Gruber

Home Mortgage Tips

How to Buy a Home with Zero Down Payment

Buying a home without a down payment is possible, but it requires exploring the right loan programs and financial assistance options. While lenders have tightened their requirements since the 2008 housing crisis, there are still ways to achieve homeownership with little to no upfront cash.

Loan Programs That Require No Down Payment

VA Loans
If you are a current or former member of the U.S. military, a VA loan may be an excellent option. Backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans require no down payment and typically offer lower interest rates than conventional loans. They also come with no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirements, making them a cost-effective choice for eligible borrowers.

USDA Loans
For buyers looking in rural or suburban areas, USDA loans backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture offer 100% financing. While no down payment is required, there are income limits and property location requirements to qualify. These loans can be a great option for buyers with moderate to low incomes.

Alternative Ways to Buy a Home with No Down Payment

Down Payment Assistance Programs
State and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, offer programs to assist with down payments. These programs often provide grants or low-interest loans to help cover the initial costs of buying a home. Eligibility typically depends on income, location, and first-time homebuyer status.

Seller Concessions
In some cases, sellers may be willing to cover closing costs or contribute toward the down payment. This is more common in buyer-friendly markets where sellers are motivated to close the deal. Negotiating seller concessions can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

Considerations Before Choosing a Zero Down Payment Option

While buying a home with no money down can make homeownership more accessible, it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks.

Higher Loan Amount – Without a down payment, you’ll be financing the entire purchase price, which means higher monthly mortgage payments.
Mortgage Insurance Costs – Some loans may require mortgage insurance, increasing overall borrowing costs.
Less Home Equity – With no initial investment, it will take longer to build equity in your home.
Stricter Credit and Income Requirements – Zero down payment loans often have specific eligibility criteria that must be met.

If you qualify for a zero down payment loan, it’s essential to evaluate the long-term financial impact. A larger down payment can reduce interest costs, lower monthly payments, and build equity faster. However, for buyers who may not have significant savings, these programs can provide a valuable path to homeownership.

06

Mar

By Fred Gruber

Home Mortgage

Why Shopping for a Mortgage Can Save You Thousands

When buying a home or refinancing, comparing mortgage options can make a significant financial difference. Many borrowers assume that the first loan offer they receive is the best one, but taking the time to explore multiple lenders can lead to substantial savings.

How Comparing Mortgages Saves Money

Lower Interest Rates: Even a slight difference in interest rates can impact your monthly payments and the total amount you pay over the life of your loan. A lower rate can mean saving thousands of dollars in interest.

Reduced Fees and Costs: Some lenders charge higher origination fees, closing costs, or prepayment penalties. Shopping around helps you identify these expenses and avoid unnecessary costs.

Better Loan Terms: Different lenders offer different terms, such as fixed or adjustable-rate mortgages, and varying loan lengths. Understanding your options allows you to choose a loan that best fits your long-term financial goals.

Avoiding Unfavorable Conditions: Not all mortgages are created equal. Some come with conditions that may not suit your financial situation, such as balloon payments or high penalties for early payoff. Comparing offers ensures you choose a loan that works for you.

Steps to Finding the Best Mortgage

1. Set a Budget: Before applying for a mortgage, determine how much you can comfortably afford. Consider your monthly income, expenses, and savings to establish a reasonable budget.

2. Check Your Credit Score: Your credit score affects the interest rate and loan options available to you. Reviewing and improving your score before applying can help you secure better terms.

3. Research Multiple Lenders: Don’t rely on a single lender’s offer. Compare options from banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokers to find the best deal.

4. Understand Loan Types: Decide between a fixed-rate mortgage, which offers stable payments, or an adjustable-rate mortgage, which may start lower but can increase over time. Consider how long you plan to stay in the home and what works best for your financial goals.

5. Consider Loan Terms: A 15-year loan often has higher monthly payments but saves money in interest over time, while a 30-year loan offers lower payments with higher total interest costs. Choose the term that aligns with your financial strategy.

6. Get Pre-Approved: Pre-approval not only helps you understand what you can afford but also strengthens your position when making an offer on a home. Sellers take pre-approved buyers more seriously, which can give you an advantage in competitive markets.

7. Work with a Mortgage Professional: A mortgage broker can help you compare multiple loan options, saving you time and potentially securing better rates than you might find on your own.

Taking the time to shop around for a mortgage is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make. By comparing lenders and loan options, you can secure a mortgage that fits your needs while saving money over time.