Recent Articles

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Mortgage Rates at 10-Month Lows! Big Opportunity!

Mortgage rates are holding near 10-month lows after early August’s jobs report and mixed inflation data. Here’s what homebuyers and homeowners need to know.

Published on 08/14/2025

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Rates Just Hit a 10-Month Low!

Mortgage rates just hit their lowest levels since October 2024 following a big shift in the bond market. Here’s why it matters for homebuyers and homeowners.

Published on 08/05/2025

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Case-Shiller Home Price Index: What the Latest Numbers Mean for Real Estate Agents

On July 29, 2025, the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index released its latest data, showing a modest 0.4% increase in home values from April to May (non-seasonally adjusted), while the seasonally adjusted numbers reflect a slight 0.3% decrease. Year-over-year, home prices are up 2.3%, marking the smallest annual gain since July 2023. For real estate agents in Colorado, Texas, and Florida—where Efficient Lending, Inc. proudly originates residential mortgages—these numbers carry significant implications for your business. Let’s break down the good, the bad, and the actionable insights to help you navigate this market and better serve your clients.

Published on 07/30/2025

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Housing Market Confusing? Here’s Why You’re Hearing Mixed Messages

Confused by the housing market? You're not alone. Here's why the market feels hot and cold at the same time—and what it means for you as a homebuyer.

Published on 07/30/2025

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Could Removing Capital Gains Taxes on Home Sales Revive the Housing Market?

A new proposal suggests removing capital gains taxes on primary home sales to boost the housing market. Here’s what it could mean for homeowners and buyers.

Published on 07/23/2025

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Trueflation: A New Lens for Understanding Inflation and Seizing Market Opportunities

As a homeowner or real estate professional, understanding inflation is critical to making informed financial decisions. At Efficient Lending, Inc., we’re committed to helping our clients in Colorado, Texas, and Florida build generational wealth through smart mortgage strategies. One tool gaining attention in the economic landscape is Trueflation, a blockchain-based, real-time inflation index that claims to offer a more accurate and timely alternative to the traditional Consumer Price Index (CPI) reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In this post, we’ll explore what Trueflation is, evaluate its reliability compared to BLS data, and discuss how borrowers and real estate agents can leverage this metric to spot market opportunities.

Published on 07/22/2025

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Federal Reserve Updates: Waller as Next Chair and Potential July Rate Cut?

The financial world is abuzz with speculation about the future of the Federal Reserve, particularly regarding who might replace Jerome Powell as Chair and whether an interest rate cut is on the horizon for the July 29-30, 2025 meeting. Recent reports highlight Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller as a leading candidate to succeed Powell, alongside discussions of a possible rate cut this month. Here’s a breakdown of the latest developments based on credible media sources.

Published on 07/18/2025

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Navigating the 2025 Housing Market: Key Insights for Real Estate Agents from This Week’s Economic Update

As real estate agents, understanding the broader economic landscape is essential for guiding clients through today’s dynamic housing market. This week’s market update from Michael Nelson highlights critical economic indicators—Federal Reserve minutes, unemployment claims, and home price appreciation data—that offer valuable insights for your business. Here’s what these updates mean for real estate agents and how you can leverage them to better serve your clients.

Published on 07/16/2025

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Game-Changer: Credit Scores Just Got Rewritten

A new credit scoring update could impact who qualifies for a mortgage and at what rate. Learn what this means for first-time buyers and why now is the time to speak with your loan officer.

Published on 07/16/2025

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Should You Buy a Home Before Your Divorce is Final? Here’s What to Know

Buying a house before your divorce is finalized? Here’s why it could create legal and financial complications—and how to plan smart.

Published on 07/08/2025

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Why Homeownership Is Still Worth It—Even Beyond the Finances

From mental health benefits to stronger communities, homeownership offers more than just a return on investment—it offers a better quality of life.

Published on 06/25/2025

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Mortgage Rates Aren’t Just About the Fed — Here’s What You Really Need to Know

Mortgage rates held steady this week—but not for the reasons you think. Here’s why working with a loan officer beats doing your own research when timing the market.

Published on 06/20/2025

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Hybrid ARMs: Pros, Cons, and How They Differ from 2008’s Risky ARMs

When exploring mortgage options, hybrid adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) often catch the attention of home buyers seeking affordability and flexibility. But what exactly are hybrid ARMs, and how do they stack up against the infamous ARMs tied to the 2008 financial crisis? In this blog, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of hybrid ARMs and clarify how they differ from the riskier loans of the past, helping you decide if they’re right for your home-buying journey.

Published on 06/18/2025

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The Real Estate Rule That Just Got Repealed—And Why It’s a Big Win for Buyers

The National Association of Realtors repealed a rule that kept some listings hidden—thanks in part to pressure from homebuyers, tech platforms, and even the DOJ. Learn how this boosts your home search.

Published on 06/13/2025

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The Fed’s Balancing Act: What Recent Inflation and Jobs Data Mean for Your Finances

The Federal Reserve is the backbone of the U.S. economy, working to keep inflation in check and support a robust job market. These goals shape decisions that impact your mortgage rates, car loans, and more. Recent data offers clues about the Fed’s next steps and what they mean for you.

Published on 06/10/2025

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Why Now Might Be the Best Time in Years to Buy a Home (Seriously)

The housing market is shifting—and it's shifting in your favor. Learn why rising inventory, slower sales, and increased negotiating power mean buyers have the upper hand. Don’t miss your window.

Published on 06/04/2025

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May 2025 Mortgage and Real Estate Update: Trends, Volatility, and What’s Ahead

Welcome to the May 2025 mortgage and real estate update from MBS Highway! In this episode, I’ll review May’s mortgage market trends and volatility, preview June, and share insights to guide informed real estate decisions. Join me for an engaging discussion to navigate these changing times!

Published on 06/02/2025

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The Secret Every Successful Home Seller Knows (But Most Miss)

Discover the simple but powerful secret that helps homeowners sell faster and for top dollar in today's real estate market. Hint: It’s not just about price.

Published on 05/28/2025

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April 2025 Housing Market Update: A Shift That Favors Buyers

Home prices are cooling, inventory is rising, and buyers are gaining leverage. See what the April 2025 housing market update means for you.

Published on 05/23/2025

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Unlocking the Mystery of Your Credit Score

When it comes to managing your finances, understanding your credit score is essential. This three-digit number plays a crucial role in determining your ability to secure loans and credit. So, what exactly does your credit score mean, and why should you care? Let's dive in.

Published on 05/16/2025