Melissa Thompson, Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS #234003

11/03/2026

Changes to appraisal rules make it easier to compare home values through standardized ratings, a unified form, and updated reporting of finished vs. unfinished and above-grade vs. below-grade space. It’s now more important than ever to document any improvements you make to your home. Questions? I’ll be glad to help! Franklin Loan Center is an Equal Housing Lender.

11/02/2026

10/30/2026

Out of 13 offers, my VA buyer was accepted! 100% financing, seller credit to help cover closing costs, closed in 23 days!

10/29/2026

The Fed held policy rates stable at its October meeting. The Fed doesn't control mortgage rates directly, and investors had already priced in the change. Geopolitical events are more likely to have an impact on mortgage rates at this time. If you want to discuss whether now is the right time for you to make a move, please reach out. Franklin Loan Center is an Equal Housing Lender.

10/20/2026

Found your next home before your current one has sold? A Franklin Bridge Loan lets you tap the equity in your current home now, so you can make a stronger, non-contingent offer on your next one.

Three ways to bridge:
• Stand-Alone: use your current home's equity, even if another lender finances your purchase
• Cross-Collateralized: secured by both homes and funded alongside your Franklin purchase loan
• Bank Statement: for self-employed borrowers who qualify with 12 months of bank statements

Loan amounts from $100K to $1M.

Homeowners and real estate agents: reach out to see which Bridge Loan Program fits your move.

10/19/2026

Closing Day 🏡🗝️

10/16/2026

Another Happy Homeowner 🎉🏡

10/12/2026

Sellers paid concessions in 44.7% of U.S. home sales in August, the highest August share since at least 2020. It happened in the strongest buyer's market in Redfin's records, which go back to 2013.

For buyers, this is good news with a catch: most don't know how to use it.

Concessions are capped by loan type, so if a buyer asks for too much, the extra goes unused. If the credit goes to the wrong thing, the payment barely moves. If it goes to a rate buydown, whether a temporary or permanent buydown, it can lower the monthly payment.

Leverage is only worth something if you use it well. In this market, smart buyers negotiate the payment, not the price.

Source: www.redfin.com/news/home-seller-concessions-august-2026/