Mortgage & Real Estate Insights
Daily articles on mortgages, rates, home buying, and the Kokomo market from Ryan Minick and Steve DeLon.
Bridge loans: Buying a new home before selling your own
Explore how bridge loans help homeowners buy before selling, what costs and risks to weigh, and how to plan for a delayed sale before making your next move.
Land loans: What to know before buying your next lot
Explore how land loans work, what lenders review, and which property checks matter before buying a lot or planning a future home with financing that fits.
Construction loans: A practical guide for today's builders
Learn how construction loans fund a new home in stages, what lenders review, and how borrowers can prepare for a smoother building and closing process.
Mortgage market update: What borrowers should watch now
Mortgage rates remain elevated and volatile. Buyers, homeowners, and sellers can prepare for market swings before making financing decisions this week.
1099 Income Loans: A Practical Guide for Homebuyers
Learn how 1099 income loans may help self-employed borrowers qualify for a mortgage, what lenders review, and how to prepare a stronger application today.
Bank statement loans: a fit for self-employed borrowers
Bank statement loans help self-employed borrowers qualify using deposits instead of tax returns. Learn how they work and who they fit best in today's market.
Mortgage market update: rates remain elevated as volatility persists
Mortgage rates remain elevated as bond markets navigate ongoing volatility. Here's what buyers and sellers need to know about the current lending environment.
Cash-out refinance: turning home equity into opportunity
A cash-out refinance lets homeowners tap into built-up equity for major expenses. Learn how it works, when it makes sense, and what to consider before you apply.
Cash-out refinance: tapping home equity the smart way
Considering a cash-out refinance? Here's how it works, when it makes sense, and what homeowners should weigh before tapping into their home equity today.
Refinancing in a higher rate world: who still benefits
Refinancing still makes sense for some homeowners, even with rates elevated. Learn who benefits today, when to wait, and how to run the numbers the right way.
Mortgage market update: rates climb ahead of today's Fed decision
Mortgage rates remain elevated as the bond market braces for today's Fed decision. Volatility is high, and here's what borrowers need to know right now.
Why VA Loans Don't Require PMI and What It Means for You
VA loans skip private mortgage insurance entirely. Learn why this benefit matters, how the VA funding fee works, and what veterans should know before applying.
USDA no money down loans: a closer look at who qualifies
USDA loans offer 100% financing for eligible rural properties, but income limits and location rules catch many buyers off guard. Here's how it actually works.
Hoosier Homes Down Payment Assistance: A Guide for Indiana Buyers
Indiana's Hoosier Homes program helps buyers cover down payment and closing costs. Here's how eligibility works, what to expect, and how to start the application.
Asset depletion loans: a path for asset-rich, income-light borrowers
Asset depletion loans help retirees and self-employed borrowers qualify using savings and investments rather than traditional income. Here's how they work.
1099 Income Loans: A Guide for Self-Employed Borrowers
How 1099 income loans work for self-employed borrowers, contractors, and freelancers. Documentation tips, qualification options, and what lenders look for.
Luminate Path down payment assistance: what buyers should know
Luminate Path down payment assistance can put homeownership within reach for qualified buyers. Here's how the program typically works and who may benefit most.
Mortgage rates stay elevated as fall buying season begins
Mortgage rates remain elevated as the Fed meeting approaches. Here's what borrowers and homeowners should know about locking in and timing closings this fall.
VA loans without PMI: a built-in advantage worth understanding
VA loans skip private mortgage insurance entirely, saving qualified borrowers hundreds each month. Here's how the no-PMI structure works and why it matters now.
USDA loans: zero down financing for rural home buyers
USDA loans let eligible buyers finance 100% of their home with no down payment. Learn how the program works, who qualifies, and where you can use it now.
Hoosier Homes Down Payment Assistance for Indiana Buyers
Hoosier Homes down payment assistance helps Indiana buyers cover upfront costs. Here's how eligibility works, what the program covers, and how to get started.
Asset depletion loans: qualifying with wealth, not paychecks
Asset depletion loans help high-net-worth borrowers qualify using liquid assets instead of traditional income. Learn how they work and who benefits most.
Getting a mortgage with 1099 income: a guide for self-employed borrowers
Self-employed or freelance? Here's how 1099 income loans work, what documentation lenders need, and how to qualify for a mortgage with non-traditional income.
Luminate Path Down Payment Assistance: A Path to Homeownership
Luminate Path down payment assistance helps qualified buyers cover upfront homeownership costs. Learn how the program works, who qualifies, and how to get started.
USDA no money down financing: a guide for rural buyers
USDA loans offer zero down financing for eligible rural and suburban buyers. Learn how the program works, who qualifies, and what to expect at closing.
1099 income loans: a guide for self-employed borrowers
Self-employed borrowers have more mortgage options than they think. Here's how 1099 income loans work, what lenders look for, and how to qualify.
Mortgage rates hold steady as Jackson Hole and key inflation data loom
Mortgage rates remain near recent highs as borrowers watch Jackson Hole and upcoming inflation data. Here is what buyers and sellers should know this week.
VA construction loans with no money down: a complete guide
Learn how VA construction loans let eligible veterans build a home with zero down payment. Understand eligibility, benefits, and how the process works in today's market.
FHA loans and less than perfect credit: what to know
FHA loans open doors for borrowers with blemished credit. Learn how the program works, what lenders look for, and how to strengthen your application today.
Mortgage rates catch a breather after a choppy week
Mortgage rates caught a small reprieve this week after several days of upward pressure. Here's what drove the move and what it means for today's borrowers.
How to buy land and build a home with a single loan
A single construction-to-permanent loan lets you finance the land, the build, and the long-term mortgage in one package. Here's how it works and who it fits best.
Why DSCR loans open doors for real estate investors
DSCR loans qualify real estate investors based on rental income rather than personal W-2s. Here's how they work, who they help, and why investors choose them.
Down payment assistance: how buyers can tap into hidden help
Down payment assistance programs can put homeownership within reach. Learn how grants, forgivable loans, and local programs work for today's buyers.
Tapping home equity in retirement without monthly payments
Retirees with significant home equity can access cash without monthly mortgage payments. Learn how reverse mortgages work and what to weigh before deciding.
VA construction loans: build a home with zero down
VA construction loans let eligible borrowers build a new home with no down payment. Learn how the program works, who qualifies, and what to expect in the process.
FHA loans and imperfect credit: what buyers need to know
FHA loans can help buyers with imperfect credit become homeowners. Learn how credit scores, down payments, and compensating factors affect your loan approval.
Mortgage market update: inflation report takes center stage
Mortgage rates remain range-bound as markets brace for this week's inflation report. Here's what buyers, sellers, and refinancers should watch in the days ahead.
Buying land and building a home with a single loan
A construction-to-permanent loan lets buyers finance the land purchase and home construction with one approval, one closing, and one set of closing costs.
Why DSCR loans are changing the game for real estate investors
DSCR loans let real estate investors qualify based on rental income rather than personal W-2s. Here's how they work and why investors are choosing them now.
Down payment assistance: a path many buyers overlook
Down payment assistance can put homeownership within reach for buyers who thought they couldn't qualify. Here's how the options work and where to start.
Tap your home equity without monthly payments in retirement
Retirees with substantial home equity often face tight monthly cash flow. A reverse mortgage can unlock funds without required monthly mortgage payments.
Building a home with a VA construction loan and zero down
Veterans can build a new home with no down payment through a VA construction loan. Learn how the program works, what it requires, and why it matters now.
FHA loans: a path for borrowers with imperfect credit
FHA loans offer flexible credit requirements that help borrowers with imperfect credit become homeowners. Learn how the program works and what to expect.
Mortgage market update: navigating a choppy week
This week's mortgage market update covers Fed policy shifts, geopolitical tensions, and what borrowers should watch as we head into a critical labor data week ahead.
VA Construction Loans: Build Your Home With Zero Down
VA construction loans let eligible veterans build a new home with no down payment. Learn how the one-time close process works and what borrowers need to qualify.
FHA loans for borrowers with less than perfect credit
FHA loans offer a practical path to homeownership for buyers with less than perfect credit. Learn how the program works and what to expect when applying today.
Mortgage market update: navigating this week's uncertainty
Mortgage rates remain elevated as geopolitical headlines and a Fed decision shape the week ahead. Here's what buyers and sellers need to watch right now.
Construction loans: a guide for new home builds
Construction loans finance new builds differently than traditional mortgages. Learn how they work, what buyers need, and what to expect during the building process.
Mortgage market update: navigating a volatile summer week
Mortgage rates climbed this week as global tensions and shifting Fed expectations pushed the bond market higher. Here's what buyers and sellers need to know now.
FHA 203k loans: one mortgage for purchase and renovation
FHA 203k loans let buyers finance a home purchase and renovation in a single mortgage. Learn how this program works and who it can help in today's market.
How VA Bonus Entitlement Expands Homebuying Options
VA bonus entitlement lets eligible veterans reuse their loan benefits for additional purchases. Learn how this feature works in today's market and what it means for service members planning their
Construction Loans for Building Your New Home
Construction loans offer a way to finance building a new home when rates remain elevated. Learn how these loans work and why they may fit your plans in the current market. Contact a professional for d
Understanding Reverse Mortgages: Answers to Common Questions
Get clear answers to frequent reverse mortgage questions. Learn about eligibility, how these loans work, repayment terms, and key considerations for homeowners over 62 seeking to access home equity.
Investment Property Loans Offer Wealth Building Opportunities
Discover how investment property loans work and what sets them apart from primary residence financing. Explore current qualification factors and strategies that help investors expand portfolios succes
Mortgage Market Update: Rates Ease After Recent Data
Mortgage rates showed modest improvement this week following softer inflation readings that supported bond prices. Buyers and sellers should watch upcoming reports for further shifts in pricing and ti
USDA Loans FAQ: Key Questions Answered
USDA loans offer a path to homeownership in eligible rural areas with no down payment required. This FAQ covers eligibility, benefits, and the application process for buyers exploring these options in
FHA Loan FAQ: Answers to Common Questions
FHA loans offer flexible options for homebuyers with lower down payments and credit requirements. This FAQ covers eligibility, benefits, and key details to help you decide if an FHA loan fits your nee
VA Loan FAQ: Essential Answers for Eligible Borrowers
Find clear answers to common VA loan questions on eligibility, benefits, and the application process. Veterans and service members can learn how these loans support homeownership goals in today's
What Borrowers Need to Know About Investment Property Loans
Investment property loans help buyers finance rental homes and additional real estate assets. These loans carry different requirements than primary residence mortgages. Learn how qualification works a
July 2026 Mortgage Market Update: Watching the Latest Shifts
Mortgage rates have faced upward pressure this week from global events and upcoming data releases. Buyers and sellers should stay informed as conditions evolve. Contact a local expert to review your o
First-Time Homebuyers Face Unique Challenges This Summer
First-time homebuyers can succeed in the current market by focusing on preparation, credit strength, and working with experienced professionals. Learn practical steps to navigate elevated rates and fi
Indiana Veterans: Updated Property Tax Benefits for 2026
Indiana reformed its property tax benefits to support veterans and surviving spouses. Those with VA disability ratings from 10% to 100% may qualify for annual credits or deductions between $250 and $6
Why FHA Loans Offer Flexibility for Homebuyers Now
FHA loans provide accessible financing options with lower down payments and flexible guidelines. Learn how these government-backed mortgages can help buyers navigate today's elevated rate environ
DSCR Loans Offer Flexibility for Rental Investors
DSCR loans base approval on a property's rental income rather than personal wages. This approach gives real estate investors more options when rates remain steady. Learn how these loans work and
Essential Advice for First-Time Homebuyers in the Current Market
First-time homebuyers can succeed in today's steady rate environment by focusing on preparation and smart steps. Learn key strategies to get pre-approved, build credit, and find the right home wi
Reverse Mortgages Offer Flexibility for Retirees Today
Reverse mortgages give homeowners 62 and older access to home equity without monthly payments. They suit many retirees who want to stay in their homes while covering living costs or other needs. Curre
USDA Loans Provide Key Financing for Rural Homebuyers
USDA loans offer an accessible path to homeownership for buyers in rural and suburban areas. With minimal down payment requirements and flexible guidelines, these mortgages support moderate-income fam
VA Loans Provide Strong Options for Military Buyers
VA loans continue to stand out for eligible veterans and service members seeking homeownership with flexible terms. Learn how these loans work in the current market and why they remain a practical cho
Why FHA Loans Offer Flexibility in Today's Market
FHA loans continue to provide accessible financing options for many buyers facing elevated rates and stricter credit requirements. Learn how these government-backed mortgages work and why they may fit
Bond Rally Improves Mortgage Pricing This Week
Bond market gains on in-line inflation data are creating better mortgage pricing conditions. See what this means for homebuyers and sellers right now.
Bond Rally Creates Mortgage Rate Opportunities This Week
Bond market gains this week are improving mortgage pricing. See what the latest moves mean for homebuyers and sellers on June 25, 2026.
Bond Gains Point to Better Mortgage Pricing This Week
Bond market strength today signals modestly improved mortgage pricing amid light trading. Learn what this means for homebuyers and sellers as inflation data approaches.
Geopolitical Tensions Push Mortgage Rates Higher This Week
Mortgage rates rose this week amid geopolitical tensions and bond market selloffs. Key inflation data arrives Thursday. Find out what this means for homebuyers and sellers right now.
Unlock Your Dream Home with One-Time Close Loans
Discover One-Time Close Construction Loans to build your dream home with one closing. Learn benefits, challenges, and how they work as of May 2026.
Essential Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in 2026
Discover key tips for first-time home buyers in 2026, from financial prep to navigating the market. Get expert advice to make your dream home a reality.
Mortgage Rates Spike After Fed Inflation Signals
Mortgage rates climbed higher today, March 20, 2026, following FOMC decisions and hotter inflation data. Bonds weakened post-Fed, pushing pricing up amid geopolitical risks. Loan officers advise locki
Mortgage Rates Dip on Bond Rally Ahead of Fed Day
Mortgage rates trend lower today amid a bond rally, but volatility looms with Fed decisions tomorrow. Get the latest market analysis, float/lock guidance, and tips for buyers on March 19, 2026. Stay i
Bonds Rally as Fed Meeting Looms Today
Mortgage bonds rally sharply ahead of today's pivotal Fed meeting, pushing rates lower amid oil optimism and volatility risks. Get insights on float/lock advice and what this means for homebuyers
Bonds Rally on Oil Hopes as Fed Meeting Nears
Mortgage bonds and MBS surge +36bps today on falling oil prices and Strait of Hormuz optimism, boosting pricing ahead of Wednesday's FOMC. Volatile week expected with PPI data. Get float/lock gui
MBS Prices Surge +31bps: Mortgage Market Update
On March 16, 2026, MBS prices climbed +31bps, a positive signal amid unavailable rate and inventory data. Discover implications for homebuyers, sellers, and affordability in today's mortgage land
Mortgage Rates Continue to Climb on Oil Spike and Iran Tensions
Mortgage bonds weaken amid Strait of Hormuz tensions, oil spikes, and weak auctions, pushing rates higher. Upcoming Core PCE data tomorrow and Fed meeting next week add volatility. Get expert guidance
Unlock Home Equity: Benefits of a Reverse Mortgage
Discover the benefits of a reverse mortgage to unlock home equity, boost retirement income, and gain financial flexibility. Contact us to learn more!
Mortgage Rates Climb on Iran Tensions Despite Tame CPI
Mortgage rates rose today as bonds sold off amid Iran escalations in the Strait of Hormuz, fueling oil and inflation fears despite CPI data matching expectations. Existing Home Sales beat forecasts bu
What's Happening with Mortgage Rates in March 2026?
Discover the latest trends in mortgage rates for March 2026 and their impact on home buyers, sellers, and the real estate market. Stay informed!