03
Dec
By Fred Gruber
Mortgage

Start the New Year with Strong Finances

The end of the year is the perfect time to review your finances and make smart moves that set you up for success. A few focused steps can strengthen your budget, improve your credit, and prepare you for major goals in the coming year.

Review Your Budget
Take a close look at your spending from the past year and note where your money went. Identify areas where you can cut back and redirect those funds to savings or debt reduction. Even small adjustments create real progress over time.

Check Your Credit Score
Your credit plays a major role in loan approvals, interest rates, and overall financial flexibility. Pull your score from a trusted source and verify that all reported information is accurate. If you find errors, dispute them right away so you start the new year on solid ground.

Organize Important Documents
Set aside tax forms, mortgage statements, insurance records, and financial documents in one place. This simple step saves time during tax season and reduces stress. Having everything organized also helps you track your long-term goals more easily.

Plan for Debt Reduction
List your current debts and decide which ones to focus on first. Many people choose the highest interest balances or the smallest balances to gain quick momentum. Creating a clear payoff plan now can lead to meaningful financial freedom next year.

Evaluate Homeowner Opportunities
If you own a home, this is a great time to review your mortgage. Refinancing may help you secure a lower rate, remove mortgage insurance, or shorten your term. A quick check with a trusted advisor can show you where you stand and how much you could save.

Start the New Year Strong
A little preparation now goes a long way. With a fresh financial plan and clear goals, you can step into the new year with confidence and peace of mind.

02
Jan
By Fred Gruber
Mortgage Rates

How Mortgage Rates Are Determined

When you’re looking to purchase a home or refinance an existing mortgage, understanding how mortgage rates are determined is key to navigating your financial journey. These rates are influenced by a combination of personal financial factors and broader economic conditions, which work together to impact how much you’ll pay over the life of your loan.

1. Your Credit Score

One of the most significant factors influencing your mortgage rate is your credit score. This three-digit number reflects your financial responsibility and creditworthiness. Borrowers with higher credit scores typically receive lower interest rates because they are considered less risky by lenders.

To improve your credit score and secure a better rate:

  • Pay your bills on time.

  • Reduce credit card balances.

  • Avoid opening new lines of credit before applying for a mortgage.

2. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV)

The loan-to-value ratio compares the size of your mortgage to the appraised value of the property. A lower LTV ratio—meaning a larger down payment—can often lead to better mortgage rates. Lenders view loans with lower LTV ratios as less risky because the borrower has more equity in the property.

3. Current Economic Conditions

The overall health of the economy has a direct impact on mortgage rates. Factors like inflation, unemployment rates, and GDP growth all influence the demand for housing and borrowing.

For example:

  • Inflation: Higher inflation generally pushes mortgage rates up because lenders need to maintain returns that outpace inflation.

  • Economic Slowdowns: In weaker economic times, rates might drop to encourage borrowing and stimulate growth.

4. The Role of the Federal Reserve

While the Federal Reserve doesn’t set mortgage rates directly, its policies heavily influence them. The Fed adjusts the federal funds rate to manage economic growth and inflation. When the Fed raises interest rates, mortgage rates often increase as a result, and vice versa.

5. Type of Loan

The type of loan you choose also plays a role in determining your rate. For instance:

  • Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Offer stability, with rates typically higher than adjustable-rate mortgages at the outset.

  • Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): Typically start with a lower rate, but rates may fluctuate over time based on market conditions.

6. Market Competition

Mortgage rates can also vary based on the level of competition among lenders. During times of high competition, lenders may offer more competitive rates to attract borrowers.

7. Location and Loan Amount

Where you’re purchasing a home and the size of your loan can influence your rate. Certain areas may have higher rates due to state-specific regulations, while loans that exceed conforming limits (jumbo loans) usually come with higher rates due to increased risk.

How to Position Yourself for Better Rates

Understanding these factors gives you the tools to secure the best mortgage rate possible. Here are a few actionable steps:

  • Monitor your credit score and take steps to improve it.

  • Save for a larger down payment to lower your LTV ratio.

  • Stay informed about economic trends and consider locking in rates during periods of stability.

  • Shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders to find the most competitive rates.

Mortgage rates are influenced by a blend of personal financial health and broader economic factors. By understanding the elements at play—like credit scores, Federal Reserve policies, and loan types—you can make more informed decisions when financing your home. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can position yourself to secure a mortgage rate that aligns with your goals and budget.