Inside the OCC’s $2.6 Trillion Window on Bank Mortgages
The OCC’s Q1 report tracks 10.2 million bank-serviced mortgages — $2.6 trillion, 19.1% of the market — the regulator-grade check on mortgage health.
Mortgage
Appraiser Gets 20 Years in $65 Million Mortgage Fraud Case
A Florida man received 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty in an appraisal-fraud scheme prosecutors tied to $65 million in defective loans.
The Insurance-Adjusted Housing Affordability Problem Buyers Should Not Ignore
Homeowners insurance is the missing line in most affordability math. Why coverage costs now shape what buyers can afford.
Homeowners Insurance Before Closing: What Buyers Should Check Early
Homeowners insurance can affect your loan, payment and closing date. Why buyers should shop coverage early, not last.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Explained: The Number That Can Make or Break a Mortgage
Debt-to-income ratio can make or break a mortgage application. How lenders calculate DTI and the limits that matter in 2026.
FHA vs. VA Loans: Which Mortgage Option Fits Which Buyer?
FHA and VA loans both help buyers with lower upfront costs, but eligibility, mortgage insurance and funding fees differ.
FHA vs. Conventional Loans in 2026: Key Differences for Buyers
FHA and conventional loans help different buyers. Compare down payments, mortgage insurance, credit flexibility and loan limits.
Closing Costs Explained: What Buyers and Sellers Pay in 2026
Closing costs can surprise buyers and sellers. Learn what closing costs include, who pays them and how to review them.
Appraisal Gap Explained: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know
An appraisal gap happens when the appraised value is lower than the purchase price. Here’s what buyers and sellers should know.
Rent vs. Buy Calculator Guide: What Most Online Calculators Miss
Rent vs. buy calculators can help, but many miss taxes, insurance, repairs, time horizon and selling costs.
Buying vs. Renting in 2026: Which Makes More Financial Sense?
Buying vs. renting in 2026 depends on location, time horizon, mortgage rates, rent levels and ownership costs.
Down Payment Guide 2026: How Much Buyers Are Really Putting Down
How much are buyers putting down in 2026? Down payments fell to a four-year low, but cash still matters.
First-Time Homebuyer Checklist 2026: From Preapproval to Closing
A practical first-time homebuyer checklist for 2026, from budgeting and preapproval to inspections, insurance and closing.
How Long It Takes to Save a Down Payment in 2026
How long does it take to save a down payment in 2026? The answer depends on savings rate, home price and loan type.