Category Archives: Finance/Lending

America’s cheapest Division I college markets offer low home prices, but competition and ownership costs can complicate the deal.

The post Most Affordable College Towns in America Aren’t Simple Buys appeared first on The Close.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac now allow all approved lenders to use VantageScore 4.0 on eligible loans, adding a new credit-scoring option.

The post Fannie, Freddie Expand VantageScore 4.0 to All Lenders — What It Could Mean for Buyers appeared first on The Close.

August home sales fell as inventory rose, giving buyers more leverage and making accurate local pricing more important for sellers.

The post August Home Sales Fall as Rising Inventory Tests Seller Pricing appeared first on The Close.

Opendoor Home Loans exits beta with fixed-rate loans and ARMs that can finance eligible purchases beyond Opendoor-owned homes.

The post Opendoor Home Loans Exits Beta, Expands Beyond Its Own Listings appeared first on The Close.

A Cape Cod lawsuit over a demolished $5.5 million home shows why coastal agents should verify erosion, permits, insurance, and financing risks.

The post Demolished Cape Cod Home Leaves $3.85M Mortgage — and a Warning for Agents appeared first on The Close.

Mortgage rates rose to 6.55%, their highest level of 2026. Here’s how agents should update buyer budgets, preapprovals, and listings.

The post Mortgage Rates Reverse July Dip, Hit 2026 High at 6.55% appeared first on The Close.

US foreclosures rose 21% in early 2026, while FHA and VA loans showed greater stress. Agents should watch local distressed inventory.

The post US Foreclosures Rise 21% — FHA and VA Loans Show the Most Stress appeared first on The Close.

Home prices remain near record highs as buyer demand weakens, creating sharply different conditions across local markets and price ranges.

The post Home Prices Hover Near a Record as Buyer Demand Pulls Back appeared first on The Close.

Condo prices are falling while association costs rise. Florida agents should run these four estoppel checks before closing.

The post As Condo Assessments Rise, Florida Agents Need 4 Checks Beyond the Estoppel appeared first on The Close.

Rising HOA costs and special assessments are changing the math for condo buyers, even as prices fall in some markets.

The post Lower Condo Prices Are Colliding With Higher HOA Costs appeared first on The Close.