Rates & market updates · California
Understanding Mortgage Rates in California
Understand market changes, APR, points and rate locks so you can compare California mortgage offers on the same assumptions.
THE ECHL BLOG
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Explore homebuying, home equity and the decisions that come with owning a home.
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58 articles · Page 5 of 5
Loan options · California
USDA Direct or Guaranteed: Choose the Correct Application Path
Understand who funds each USDA program, how income and area limits differ and what to check before applying for a Direct loan.
Loan options · California
USDA Loans in California: Address, Income and Payment Checks
Check USDA Guaranteed eligibility without confusing household income limits, borrowing capacity or the separate Direct loan program.
Refinancing
USDA Refinance Options: Compare the Three Paths and Their Limits
Review USDA non-streamlined, streamlined and streamlined-assist refinancing, including cash-out restrictions, subsidy recapture and cost comparisons.
Refinancing
VA Cash-Out Refinancing: Check Eligibility, Net Cash and the New Mortgage
Compare VA cash-out refinancing with an IRRRL or second loan. Review COE eligibility, appraisal, funding fees, occupancy and the full repayment cost.
Homebuying · California
VA and FHA Assumptions in California: Verify the Loan and the Cash Gap
Check servicer approval, the remaining balance, seller liability and VA entitlement before relying on an assumable mortgage listing.
Homebuying · California
The VA Homebuying Process in California
Coordinate eligibility, entitlement, lender review and the property contract when using a VA purchase benefit in California.
Loan options
VA, FHA or Conventional: Compare Costs for an Eligible Veteran
Put funding fees, mortgage insurance, cash to close and household reserves side by side before choosing a mortgage program.
Homebuying · California
How to Verify a California Real Estate Professional
Use official licensing records to check identity, status and affiliations before sharing documents or committing to a transaction.
Homebuying
Why a Mortgage Preapproval Can Fall Through
Find the assumption that changed, understand the lender’s conditions and make a practical recovery plan before committing more money.