Rick Kirschenbaum-Vintage Lending

09/09/2026

US 5-Year ARM Basics Buyers Need
When I sit down with clients to review their mortgage options, one topic that often comes up is the 5-year ARM, sometimes called a 5/6 ARM. Here’s what you need to know: For the first five years, your interest rate stays locked in—offering some peace of mind and usually a lower initial rate compared to fixed-rate loans. After that period, the rate adjusts every six months based on a benchmark index plus a set lender margin. This means your payments can go up or down depending on how the broader economy is performing. Rate caps are built in to keep future adjustments within reasonable limits, which helps avoid any wild swings. This type of loan is a good fit for buyers who plan to move or refinance within five years. As always, I believe in walking my clients through every step—so you’ll never be surprised by how your loan works or what comes next. At Vintage Lending, we focus on excellent service, competitive rates, and making sure you’re comfortable with your choices.

09/08/2026

Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your New Home
Expert guidance and flexible loan options to make homeownership simple, affordable, and stress-free.
https://www.roomvu.com/services/page/home-purchase-loans?agent_profile_name=rick-kirschenbaum

09/08/2026

Down payment assistance: How it works and how to qualify
Navigating the down payment hurdle is a common challenge for first-time home buyers—especially when looking at homes above $415,000. I make it a point to walk my clients through every aspect of the mortgage process, and understanding down payment assistance is a key step. State-level programs can provide grants or low-interest loans, but each comes with its own residency, income, and occupancy requirements. My advice: start researching these options early in your home search. Having helped many buyers qualify for the assistance they deserve, I know that clarity and preparation here can make all the difference. I’m always dedicated to ensuring you’re informed, comfortable, and confident as you take each step toward homeownership.

09/08/2026

US FHA or Conventional Loan Guide
Choosing between an FHA and a conventional loan can feel overwhelming, but understanding the differences helps you make the right choice. FHA loans are often a fit for buyers who may have a lower credit score or a smaller down payment. However, keep in mind that FHA loans always come with mortgage insurance, and if you put down less than 10%, those premiums can last for the life of the loan.

Conventional loans typically require stronger credit, but they offer more flexibility—such as being available for primary, secondary, or investment properties, down payments as low as 3%, and the option to remove private mortgage insurance (PMI) later on. In early Q3 2026, average 30-year rates hovered in the high-6% range for conventional loans and the low-6% range for FHA. It's important to remember, though, that FHA's upfront and annual insurance can make the total cost higher over time.

As of now, US conforming conventional loan limits are at $832,800 in most areas, while FHA caps borrowing at $541,300 and usually requires the property to be your primary residence, along with stricter qualification standards. I always recommend reviewing a side-by-side comparison with your lender. Look closely at the interest rate, cash needed to close, monthly payment, mortgage insurance, taxes, and overall cost over 5-7 years. My approach is to guide you through every step, ensuring you have all the details you need to make an informed decision. That’s how I make sure you’re confident and happy with your home financing journey.

09/06/2026

09/06/2026

Happy Labor Day!

09/05/2026

Current Utah Mortgage And Refinance Rates
Utah’s current average 30-year mortgage rate is 6.706%, sitting just below the national average. Over the past three months, I’ve seen rates for 15-year, jumbo, and refinance mortgages trending downward as well. At Vintage Lending, I focus on making sure my clients understand every step of the loan process and are always kept up to date, whether you’re looking at a new purchase or considering a refinance. My priority is helping you secure the best possible rate and ensuring your experience is smooth, from application to signing at the title company. Many of my clients have found that the combination of competitive rates and low closing costs makes a real difference. If you have questions about the latest rates or want to know more about your options, I’m here to help with clear answers and attentive service.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/rick-kirschenbaum/1923041-Current-Utah-Mortgage-And-Refinance-Rates

09/04/2026

Compare Current Jumbo Mortgage Rates Today
Dreaming of a luxury home? 🏡 Jumbo mortgages help you buy big, but they come with stricter rules—think higher credit, bigger down payments, and lower debt ratios. Curious if you can score a better rate than a conventional loan? Explore your options and see how you stack up! 💸✨
https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/rick-kirschenbaum/1904885-Compare-Current-Jumbo-Mortgage-Rates-Today

09/03/2026

Great guy to work with when buying a house
Went out of his way to get it done Will work with Rick ag...
Let’s connect and talk about the latest insights in the industry!

09/02/2026

US Mortgage Rates Stay Near 7%