Recent Articles

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Mortgage Affordability in Mid-2026: What You Can (and Can’t) Control

Welcome. I’m Mike Nelson, CEO of Efficient Lending, Inc. (NMLS 1876539). We’re a residential mortgage brokerage headquartered in Waco, Texas, and we originate loans in Colorado, Texas, and Florida. I spend a lot of time traveling between these three states helping people buy homes, refinance, and build something that lasts.

Published on 07/22/2026

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Inflation Eases, Housing Faces Headwinds - MBS Highway Update 7-20-26

Week of July 13, 2026 June brought some welcome inflation news, while housing market updates were mixed. Construction activity rebounded, but home sales declined.

Published on 07/20/2026

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Hazard Insurance vs Homeowners Insurance

Learn the difference between hazard insurance and homeowners insurance, what lenders require, what each policy covers, and how understanding both helps prevent closing day surprises.

Published on 07/20/2026

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2026 Mid-Year Mortgage Market Update: What Went Wrong & Where We're Headed - First Half 2026 Podcast Review

Six months into 2026, it’s time for a reality check. In this candid mid-year review, I’m joined by Paul Gusoff (Southern California real estate veteran) and Tom Bonetto (Arizona & California mortgage expert) to compare our January predictions against today’s market.

Published on 07/16/2026

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A New Home Equity Line Available Through Efficient Lending — Is Your Home’s Equity on the Sidelines?

For many homeowners and investors, their home isn’t just where they live—it’s also their largest financial asset. Over the past several years, home values have increased dramatically across much of the country, leaving many homeowners with significant untapped equity. The question is: Is that equity working for you?

Published on 07/13/2026

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Home Sales Slip, Prices Show Strength - Weekly Update Powered by MBS Highway

Week of July 6, 2026, in Review Existing home sales slipped slightly in June, while home prices continued their seasonal upswing. Here are the key takeaways.

Published on 07/13/2026

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Medical Debt Doesn't Kill Approval

Medical debt

Published on 07/13/2026

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Hiring Misses, Home Prices Climb - MBS Highway Update 7-6-26

Week of June 29, 2026, in Review June hiring came in below expectations, while home prices continued to move higher with another month of solid gains. Here are the key takeaways.

Published on 07/06/2026

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Why Fed Comments and Sticky Inflation Are Keeping Mortgage Rates Elevated – And What It Means for Your Homeownership Goals

A recent podcast episode and swift market reaction highlight the challenges of navigating today’s uncertain rate environment. At Efficient Lending, we’re here to cut through the noise with honest, transparent guidance tailored to your needs in Colorado, Texas, and Florida.

Published on 07/01/2026