Fed increases Funds Rates by 0.75 Percentage Points

Today, in a move that probably surprised nobody, the FOMC increased the Funds Rate by 0.75 percentage points to 2.500%.

In addition, the Fed reiterated their commitment to reduce their holdings in Treasury/mortgage-backed securities and agency debt.

Mortgage rates reacted favorably as this increase was highly anticipated by the markets.

What will not be reacting so favorably are credit cards, home equity loans and other debts where interest rates are attached to Prime as the Prime Rate follows the Fed Funds rate.

PLEASE pull out your credit card statements, and any other debts to do a “checkup” on what your interest rates are. I’m happy to review your credit cards with you to see if refinancing or a second mortgage makes sense for your financial scenario.

Holy cats! My credit card interest rates!

I decided to take my own advice that I’ve been dishing out about credit cards and debts. Today I reviewed my credit card accounts to see what my current interest rates are. I’m pretty lucky to have great credit and that I’m able to pay off my debts monthly. [Read more…]

Another reason to pay off your credit card debts

Yesterday I read an interesting article in the Seattle Times about how (and why) to pay off your credit card debt as soon as possible. The article warns of a slowing economy and future rate hikes by the Fed, which will translate to higher interest rates on credit card debt. In addition to the higher rates, the slower economy may cause some people to have reduced income which will be more challenging with the high interest rate debt.

The article encourages readers to have an emergency savings fund and to focus on paying off credit card debt. [Read more…]

Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit

If you have been wanting to spruce up your kitchen, bathroom or any part of your home and you don’t want to touch your low interest rate on your existing mortgage, a second mortgage could be an option worth considering. [Read more…]

Marry the House. Date the Rate.

I can’t take credit for the catchy phrase “Marry the house. Date the rate”. It’s being posted by mortgage professionals and real estate agents all over social media. What does this phrase mean? [Read more…]

Arts in the Park in Puyallup

Yesterday I had the opportunity to participate at Arts in the Park at the Pioneer Park Pavilion in Puyallup. This was my first time demonstrating and being on the other side of the booth at an art fair. I really had a great time.

[Read more…]

Mortgage rates pushing higher

Mortgage interest rates have been moving higher at a pace not seen in years. If you’ve been a subscriber to The Mortgage Porter, you may recall that I often say mortgage rates move up much faster than they come down…the jump over the last few days has surprised many. [Read more…]

Using Cryptocurrency for a Down Payment

Cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin, CAN be used for funds for closing on a home as long as the cryptocurrency (i.e. virtual currency) meets certain criteria. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require that the funds be exchanged into U.S. dollars and that held in a U.S. regulated financial institution. In order to use conventional financing, there needs to be enough documentation to meet conventional guidelines, including: [Read more…]