Doug Smith Team at Rate, Inc.

10/14/2026

Don’t go into your mortgage blind. A loan estimate gives you a preview of what your financing will look like, including the loan terms, interest rate and estimated payment. If mortgage lingo sounds like another language, I’m here to help.

Expand your homebuying vocabulary with our helpful guide or reach out to ask specific questions.
https://myoc.io/j1dwubEH04n/JyKec



NMLS # 224524

10/14/2026

September home sales were mixed, with sales increasing in the South and West, holding steady in the Midwest and declining in the Northeast compared to last month. Year-over-year sales are down in all four regions, but many buyers are still entering contracts thanks to a 1.9% increase in inventory.

Want to know how to make the most of this evolving market? Let’s talk.
https://myoc.io/j1dwubEH04n/yoMfd



NMLS # 224524

10/05/2026

10/03/2026

🏡 Appraisals are changing — here’s what buyers, sellers, and Realtors need to know.

A new appraisal reporting format, UAD 3.6, is coming, bringing more detailed property information and a new look to appraisal reports.

The good news? The appraisal process itself is not changing. An independent appraiser will still evaluate the property and determine the opinion of value.

What will change:

✅ More detailed property information
✅ More documentation of improvements and features
✅ A more standardized appraisal report format

For sellers, this means keeping good records of updates and improvements can be more important than ever.

For Realtors, accurate MLS information and property details matter.

For buyers, a different-looking appraisal report doesn’t necessarily mean a problem — it simply reflects a more detailed process.

As always, planning ahead and having the right team in place can help avoid surprises.

Questions about how this may impact your next purchase or refinance? I’m always happy to help.

📧 [email protected]
📱 (773) 865-7972

10/01/2026

Plot twist: Your emoji may have opened a new door you hadn’t considered.

All fun and games aside, there are more options out there than the traditional single-family home. Different property types come with different financing considerations. When you’re ready to explore, I’m here to help find what works for you.

Share this with a friend and comment your emoji below!
https://myoc.io/j1dwubEH04n/W9Rbr



NMLS # 224524

09/18/2026

Buyers are still steadily entering contracts, even with mortgage rates higher than a year ago. Pending home sales in specific markets still show an increase with stronger buying power created by job gains and income growth.

Understanding the market is the first step. Let’s talk about how to make your next move with confidence.
https://myoc.io/j1dwubEH04n/6VT31



NMLS # 224524

09/17/2026

Start. Your. Engines. We’re maximizing your buying power with increased conforming loan limits available NOW.

Questions? Let’s chat.
https://myoc.io/j1dwubEH04n

NMLS # 224524