Mortgage Matters

A blog from senior writer Holden Lewis on the latest news and trends in mortgages

Bankrate.com: Mortgage Matters Blog Headlines

Fed steps in, rates fall
The Fed just announced a $600 billion bailout of mortgages.
Bond market says: Spread 'em
The spread is widening between Treasuries and mortgages. What a bummer.
Jumbo conforming, pig feeding
The jumbo conforming is a hybrid mortgage available in more than 220 high-cost counties.
Get moving, jumbo conformers
If you find the right lender, you might still have time to get your jumbo conforming paperwork moving through the pipeline.
Uncle Sam knows best?
HUD has rejected paternalism, at a time when even some conservatives would like to see some paternalism.

Analysis and Mortgage Hunting Tips

Bankrate.com: Mortgages Headlines
Rates, analysis and mortgage-hunting tips

Buying bank-owned property
There can be obstacles to buying REO homes, so it's best to hire an expert buyer's agent, says the Real Estate Adviser.
Rates are falling. Time to refi?
The Fed's promise to buy toxic mortgage debt is driving mortgage rates down. Is the time right to seek a refi?
4 things to know before you refinance
Before you rush to refi, take these steps to determine if the move will be good for you.
Interest Rate Roundup
Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.
Mortgage rates drop below 6 percent
The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate loan fell to 5.97 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

Mortgage Rates across the U.S.

Bankrate.com: Today's Best Mortgage Rates
Find the best mortgage rates available today across the nation and in your state.