Getting pre-approved is a great milestone, but it’s not a guaranteed green light for homeownership. In fact, many buyers in 2025 are surprised to learn how easily a loan can fall through after pre-approval.
Understanding Credit Requirements in Today’s Mortgage Market One of the most common questions Erin Barrows hears from homebuyers is, “What credit score do I need to qualify for a mortgage?” It’s a great question—and in 2025, the answer has some new twists that could work in your favor. Here’s what you need to know before applying for a home loan this year.
When you're applying for a mortgage, it’s common to wonder: Which levers can I pull to improve my interest rate or monthly payment? The good news: even modest adjustments—like a higher down payment, a better credit score, or a shorter loan term—can lead to meaningful savings. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for September 2025, many lenders now make side-by-side scenario tools available to help you see the differences in real time. This post walks through how each factor plays a role and gives example comparisons to help you make smart choices.
Many prospective homebuyers and homeowners hoping to refinance are watching the markets closely and asking: Will mortgage rates go down soon? With increased chatter about the Federal Reserve cutting its benchmark rate, optimism is bubbling that borrowing costs could ease. As of September 2025, 30-year fixed mortgage rates have dipped into the mid-6 % zone. But here’s the reality check: the Fed’s policy moves are just one piece of a bigger puzzle. In this article, we’ll explain what truly drives mortgage rates, survey current forecasts, and offer guidance on when you might want to act.
