Welcome to real estate insights born from many years “in the trenches.” This site cuts through the theory to deliver down-to-earth, field-tested advice for homeowners, buyers, and industry pros—covering everything from buying and selling to investing and development. It’s all practical knowledge for making smarter property decisions.
Insights on mortgage rates, financing options, and home loan strategies for buyers and homeowners.
In the second quarter of 2025, household debt across the U.S. soared to an eye-opening $18.39 trillion—up by $185 billion in just three months. What's driving this surge? A couple of key areas stand out, and homeowners and buyers alike should take notice.
Right now, mortgage debt across the U.S. is climbing, with homeowners owing a total of almost $13 trillion by mid-2025. While that might sound concerning, the reality is that today's lending standards are far stricter compared to the shaky practices that led to the housing crisis in 2008.
Here’s an update on the One Big Beautiful Bill, fresh from its tight Senate win and heading to the House.
When Interest Rates Collide with Real Life
It’s easy for the average home buyer or seller to feel like interest rates are just a far-off number—something the Fed talks about on CNBC that doesn’t really affect your day-to-day life. But make no mistake: today’s interest rate debate is very real, and very personal, for anyone thinking about buying or selling a home.
In recent weeks, the U.S. Department of Justice has moved to terminate or seek early termination of several redlining-related consent orders with banks, citing substantial compliance with the terms of the original settlements. These actions mark a shift in approach and have sparked conversation across the financial and regulatory landscape.
Key updates include:
The Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) is signaling a more optimistic tone in the early months of President Trump’s return to the White House. Speaking at a recent secondary mortgage market conference in New York, MBA President Bob Broeksmit outlined what he sees as a positive turn for the mortgage and housing finance industries, crediting early regulatory pullbacks and a more industry-friendly approach out of Washington.
According to reporting from Mortgage News Daily, Broeksmit said the group jumped in right after the election, getting in front of key decision makers and making their case. Since January, the MBA has had steady conversations with the administration, Congress, and housing agencies, pushing for fewer regulatory barriers and more space for the industry to operate.
Mortgage interest rates remain a key factor for homebuyers and real estate investors, and recent trends indicate a shift in borrowing costs. As of early 2025, current mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level this year, with the 30-year fixed mortgage rate averaging around 6.5%. This marks a decrease from the 7.5% peak seen in late 2023. While rates are still higher than the historic lows of under 3% in 2020 and 2021, this downward trend may create opportunities for buyers looking to lock in a lower home loan interest rate.
Historically, mortgage rate trends have been influenced by economic conditions, inflation, and Federal Reserve policies. In the 1980s, mortgage rates soared past 18%, making today's levels appear moderate by comparison. The question many are asking now is: Will mortgage rates go down further in 2025? While some analysts predict possible rate cuts later in the year, the timing remains uncertain.