Homestead Financial Mortgage - Godfrey

10/16/2026

🏡 In today's housing market, every dollar matters.

With affordability top of mind, mortgage rate buydowns may offer buyers a way to make monthly payments more manageable.

Whether you're looking for temporary payment relief or a lower interest rate for the life of your loan, understanding your options can make a difference. And in some cases, sellers or builders may even help cover the cost!

Learn more: https://homesteadfinancial.com/purchase/understanding-mortgage-points-and-buying-down-your-rate/

10/14/2026

🏡 No two homebuyers are exactly alike, so why would their mortgages be?

From credit and income to down payments and loan options, every borrower’s financial picture is unique.

The best mortgage isn’t necessarily the one your neighbor has. It’s the one that fits YOUR needs and goals.

Check out our recent blog to learn more. ⬇️

Learn why mortgage options can differ from borrower to borrower and how credit, down payment, DTI, loan program, and property type shape your home loan.

09/30/2026

For years, FICO’s monopoly on credit scoring has caused credit fees to skyrocket.

The three major credit bureaus, TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian, provide the credit data, while companies such as FICO provide the scoring models used to evaluate that information. As costs have increased, those expenses ultimately get passed along to consumers.

For years, each party has raised their prices; the credit bureaus blame FICO, FICO blames the bureaus, all while the consumer pays for it.

Now, VantageScore, a competing credit scoring model, has been approved for use with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

While there is no effective date yet, this is another step in the right direction toward containing lending costs.

Read more ⬇️

Key TakeawaysFICO shares fell about 27% after FHFA Director Bill Pulte said Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will merge their two mortgage pricing grids into one that includes VantageScore next to FICO Classic. Putting VantageScore on the same pricing grid removes the main cost reason for lenders to stay....

09/28/2026

The Fed raised rates. So, does that mean mortgage rates are going up too? Not necessarily.

If you’re thinking about buying a home, don’t let one headline make the decision for you. Understanding what actually drives mortgage rates can help you make a more informed decision about whether to buy now or wait.

Read our latest blog to learn what determines mortgage rates, why they rise and fall, and what it could mean for your homebuying plans.

https://homesteadfinancial.com/purchase/what-determines-mortgage-rates-why-rates-rise-and-fall/

09/24/2026

This is a question worth thinking about in today’s housing market. A lower mortgage rate doesn’t always mean a lower home price.

As rates change, so can buyer demand, competition, and negotiating power. That’s why waiting for the “perfect” rate may not always lead to a better deal.

At Homestead, we can help you compare the numbers, understand your options, and see how different rates and home prices could affect your monthly payment and long-term goals.

Don’t just watch the rate. Look at the whole picture. 🏡

09/23/2026

Another month, another impressive group of Homestead loan originators making things happen. Congratulations to our August top performers on a job well done! 👏

09/22/2026

Pumpkin spice lattes, cooler days, and cozy nights at home. Fall has a way of making home feel a little more special. 🍂☕

If this season has you dreaming about finding a place of your own to settle in and make memories, Homestead is here to help you understand your home-buying options.

Happy First Day of Fall! 🏡

09/18/2026

What do homeownership, building wealth, and roller coasters have in common? Jayson Hardie ties it all together for listeners on episode 108 of Call the Closer with Lauren Risley & Adam Bundren of Lauren Risley Realty.

Check it out! ⬇️ They talk about building long-term wealth through homeownership, navigating changing rates and home prices, and why your personal timeline matters more than trying to perfectly time the market.

🎙️Listen live every Sunday @ 1pm on The Big 550am radio, or listen anytime on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Call the Closer with Lauren Risley Realty, Powered by Homestead Financial Mortgage

Podcast Episode · Call the Closer with Lauren Risley Realty · September 4 · 53m

09/17/2026

Buying a home can feel a little like riding a rollercoaster. There’s excitement, anticipation, a few twists and turns, and plenty of emotion along the way. 🎢 Most people don’t regret the ride. They regret how long they waited to get on.🏡

Check out our recent blog: https://homesteadfinancial.com/purchase/what-roller-coasters-can-teach-us-about-home-buying/

09/16/2026

Thinking about buying a home? 🤔

Our latest blog covers 8 signs you may be ready for homeownership, from your finances and savings to your long-term plans. See how many apply to you! 🏠

Wondering if you're ready to buy a home? Explore 8 signs, from stable income and manageable debt to savings, credit, and a comfortable budget.