Keyword: Homeownership
FEB 7, 2019
Crafting Your Home Security Blanket
Homeownership
Whichever security measures you choose to keep your home safe, do your research so that you can be confident with the level of protection it provides.
FEB 6, 2019
Get In-The-Know About Escrow
Homeownership
What is escrow and how does it affect your monthly mortgage payment?
JAN 24, 2019
Time to Fix Your ARM?
Homeownership
If you have an ARM that's scheduled to adjust soon, you may want to consider the benefits of a fixed-rate mortgage while rates are still low.
JAN 23, 2019
How KonMari Can Help Homeowners
Homeownership
If you're preparing your house to be staged, packing to move, or looking to make better use of the space you already have, here are some Marie Kondo inspired tips to help.
JAN 17, 2019
FYIs about DIY
Homeownership
If you're a homeowner you've probably got ideas for home improvements... so how do DIY home projects compare to professional renovations?
JAN 16, 2019
Reach Your Dreams with 3% Down
Homeownership
Low down payment mortgage options – some requiring as little as 3% down – are available for qualified borrowers and can offer you a path to homeownership.
JAN 4, 2019
From Saving Up to Settling Down: The Homebuying Lifecycle
Homeownership
Here are three key phases of homeownership that many people experience during their lifetime.
DEC 20, 2018
In It For The Long Run
Homeownership
For the final blog in our avoiding homebuying mistakes series we are talking about the long-term planning involved in homeownership.
DEC 6, 2018
Generation Z is Buying Homes
Homeownership
Although Generation Z is early-on in adulthood, they nearly match millennial aspirations for homeownership, 97% of Generation Z believe that they will own a home in the future.
NOV 28, 2018
How Much Home Can I Afford?
Homeownership
Finding the answer is one of the most important questions you'll have to answer when buying a home. Learn what matters most.
NOV 7, 2018
Winter is Coming... Are You Prepared?
Homeownership
Here are some helpful tips to keep the cold outside and you and your family warm inside.
OCT 30, 2018
Would You Buy a Haunted House?
Homeownership
Your dream home is haunted. Are you still interested?
OCT 26, 2018
Self-Employed? Learn How You Can Get a Mortgage
Homeownership
Starting the loan application process can be overwhelming, but even more so for borrowers who are self-employed.
OCT 17, 2018
Equity in the West
Homeownership
The Western states have shown strong gains in equity this past year. What can you expect?
OCT 11, 2018
Are Pet Owners More Likely to Rent or Own?
Homeownership
What if owning a pet could predict if you're more likely to rent or own a home?
SEP 17, 2018
30 Years of Certainty
Homeownership
30 years may sound like a lifetime with many unknowns, but a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage can provide you with many comforting certainties.
SEP 12, 2018
Hurricane Tips from Families In-The-Know
Homeownership
When you learn that a major storm is headed your way, you can never be too prepared. Read up and follow these practical tips from families who've been in your shoes.
AUG 30, 2018
Global Perspective
Homeownership
Did you know that the United States has one the most affordable housing markets in the world? It's true.
AUG 8, 2018
Mortgage Relief Amid California Wildfires
Notable
If you're a homeowner who has been impacted by the California wildfires, contact your mortgage company right away to discuss your mortgage relief options.
AUG 7, 2018
10 Best Places for First-Time Homebuyers
Homeownership
Finding the right location is an important factor when looking to buy a home.
JUL 18, 2018
Help Around the Corner and Across the Country
Notable
Whether you're hoping to buy a home or struggling to pay your mortgage, Borrower Help Centers and Borrower Help Network help.
JUL 2, 2018
First-time Buyers Are Finally on the Rise
Research and Analysis
First-time buyers represented 46 percent of Freddie Mac's purchased loans in the first quarter, which was the largest share in recent history. Can it continue?
JUN 29, 2018
Who Is The Borrower of the Future?
Homeownership
As we wrap up National Homeownership Month, what better time to look at the future of homeownership.
JUN 28, 2018
5 Reasons to be Optimistic About Homeownership
Homeownership
Find out why Freddie Mac's outlook for homeownership looks bright in coming years.
JUN 26, 2018
Your Home, Our Economy
Homeownership
From your hometown to the national stage, the housing market has big impact on the economy. In fact, it accounted for approximately 12.3% of our GDP in 2017.
JUN 22, 2018
Helping Families Stay in Their Homes
Homeownership
We're reimagining the mortgage experience to help keep homeowners in their homes through simpler policies and programs.
JUN 21, 2018
The Power of Attachment
Homeownership
Did you know that homeownership helps foster stronger, more stable neighborhoods? It's true. Check out all of the social benefits owning a home can bring.
JUN 19, 2018
Your Home and Your Community's Bottom Line
Homeownership
As a homeowner, you're not only making an investment in your future, you're investing in your local economy – in up to 26 ways
JUN 15, 2018
Get Into a Home This June
Homeownership
This National Homeownership Month we're celebrating borrowers and lenders as we reimagine the mortgage experience to make homeownership possible.
JUN 14, 2018
There's No Place Like Home
Homeownership
The pride of homeownership, coupled with a sense of freedom, gives you the power to make your home uniquely yours, from the outside in.
JUN 14, 2018
An Employment Leg Up with NextJob Partnership
Notable
A new Freddie Mac partnership with NextJob will provide job search assistance to current and aspiring homeowners living in designated underserved markets.
JUN 12, 2018
Inflation Protection (It's Real!)
Homeownership
Inflation touches virtually everything we purchase, except your fixed-rate mortgage.
JUN 6, 2018
Adding Equity Up
Homeownership
Homeownership has cemented its role as part of the American Dream, providing families with a place that is their own and an avenue to build wealth through equity. Let's see how this equity adds up.
JUN 4, 2018
Why Homeownership Matters: The Triple Bottom Line
Homeownership
To celebrate National Homeownership Month, we're launching a blog series to show how homeownership impacts us, from providing social stability to fueling our national economy.
MAY 31, 2018
2018 Spring Homebuying Season Quiz
Homeownership
Have you enjoyed our Spring Homebuying Season Blog Series? Prove it!
MAY 30, 2018
You're a Homeowner! Now What?
Homeownership
Owning a home comes with responsibilities, but it also comes with a lot of freedom.
MAY 25, 2018
Closing: What to Expect
Homeownership
Closing is exciting because it's the final step in purchasing your home, but it can also be overwhelming. Learn what to expect.
MAY 22, 2018
Leveraging Your Rate
Homeownership
When it comes to mortgage rates, the lower the better. See how taking the extra time to shop around can help you.
MAY 11, 2018
Homeownership: Taking Taxes into Account
Homeownership
2018 ushered in new federal income tax laws that have many homeowners scratching their heads and wondering how the changes will affect them . The answer: It depends.
MAY 9, 2018
Putting the ROI in RenOvatIons
Homeownership
Here are six home improvement projects that will almost pay for themselves in resale value.
APR 24, 2018
What's Your Financial IQ?
Homeownership
April is Financial Literacy Month and there is no better time than now to brush up on your financial education and life-long money management skills.
APR 17, 2018
Beyond Your Mortgage: Know What You Can Afford
Homeownership
In addition to your mortgage, there are additional expenses to consider when planning for your financial future once you become a homeowner.
APR 4, 2018
Who Does What?
Homeownership
The homebuying process can be intimidating. The good news? You'll have a team of very important people who will work hard to make your experience as smooth as possible.
APR 2, 2018
2018 Spring Homebuying Season: Meet Nicole
Homeownership
Follow Nicole's homeownership journey this Spring for tips to get into a new home.
MAR 28, 2018
Interest Rate vs. APR
Homeownership
Interest Rates and APR are both used when applying for a loan. Understanding the difference between them could save you thousands of dollars.
MAR 20, 2018
Will Millennials Move Out?
Research and Analysis
What happens the newly crowned largest generation decides to start buying homes...and what happens if they don't?
MAR 19, 2018
How Will Rising Rates Affect Your Bottom Line
Homeownership
With the heightened talk about rising interest rates, many prospective homebuyers are understandably concerned about whether now is the right time to purchase a home.
MAR 13, 2018
Taking Responsibility
Homeownership
While shopping for your home is fun and exciting, it's important to remember the responsibilities and financial commitments you'll have as a homeowner.
MAR 1, 2018
When Mortgage Rates Weren't Groovy
Research and Analysis
The most dramatic increase in mortgage rates came during the late 1970s. What would happen if rates rise like that again?
FEB 26, 2018
What is Home Equity and Why Do I Want It?
Homeownership
Let's define the term and calculate how much home equity you have.
FEB 12, 2018
Who Do I Call If Disaster Forbearance Is Ending?
Homeownership
Were your monthly mortgage payments suspended temporarily because you were affected by a recent natural disaster? Wondering what happens when this "forbearance period" ends?
FEB 6, 2018
Numbers Don't Lie: 2017 Housing Trends
Homeownership
The National Association of REALTORS annual report on home buyers and sellers is full of information on the state of housing in 2017.
JAN 12, 2018
What to Expect: Tick Tock
Homeownership
If you're looking to buy your first home, you're likely asking how long the homebuying process takes, soup to nuts. Learn more about the timeline and necessary steps.
JAN 9, 2018
Mars vs. Venus and Your Home
Homeownership
It's a fact that men's and women's brains are wired in different ways. Just how much do these differences stack up when looking for a home? Let's find out.
JAN 5, 2018
Your Resolution, Your Home
Homeownership
If one of your New Year's resolutions is homeownership, check out our tips to help you reach your goal.
DEC 20, 2017
Our Top Ten List
Notable
The results are in. Did you read our top most–read blog posts for 2017?
DEC 14, 2017
Overcoming the Down Payment Hurdle
Homeownership
You're ready to buy a home, but the down payment seems like an insurmountable hurdle. Don't throw in the towel yet. It might be easier than you think.
DEC 7, 2017
The Top Misconceptions About Homebuying
Homeownership
While 2017 may have been the best year for housing in a decade, new data indicates several perceived barriers to homeownership.
DEC 4, 2017
The 4 Cs of Qualifying for a Mortgage
Homeownership
Thinking about buying a home but not sure whether you qualify for a mortgage? Here's what lenders look for in a borrower.
NOV 9, 2017
Winter is Coming: Brighten Up!
Homeownership
Winter days ahead mean darker and shorter days for most. How can you brighten your home to balance the gray? Check out these solutions.
NOV 6, 2017
Mansion or Yurt: What Can You Afford?
Homeownership
Dreaming of owning a home and wondering how much you can afford? You're not alone.
OCT 20, 2017
Is Geography Destiny?
Research and Analysis
We examine the relationship between government regulations, geography, housing supply, house prices and rents.
OCT 13, 2017
Mortgage Relief Amid California Wildfires
Notable
If you're a homeowner impacted by the wildfires in California, mortgage relief may be available. Contact your mortgage company right away to discuss your options.
OCT 12, 2017
Habitat: "She Nailed It!"
Notable
During this month's SERVE, we continue our long tradition of working with Habitat for Humanity to create a safe and affordable place for families to call home.
SEP 29, 2017
Hurricane Help FAQs
Homeownership
To help you get answers to your hurricane–related questions, we've compiled a list of answers to FAQs due to the recent hurricanes.
SEP 27, 2017
Are You Financially Prepared for An Emergency?
Notable
Being financially prepared for emergencies is about more than just having savings set aside.
SEP 21, 2017
Mortgage Assistance for Hurricane Maria
Notable
If you are a homeowner impacted by Hurricane Maria, mortgage relief may be available. Contact your mortgage company right away to discuss your options.
SEP 14, 2017
Avoiding Repair Scams After a Disaster
Homeownership
Following natural disasters, scam artists are hard at work trying to take advantage of your situation. Here are some tips to avoid them and stay safe.
SEP 8, 2017
Getting Help After a Hurricane
Homeownership
If you've been affected by Hurricane Harvey or Irma, these four important steps can help you get on the path to recovery.
SEP 6, 2017
Hurricane Preparedness
Homeownership
Texas and Louisiana just experienced the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey, and already we are bracing for the impact of another powerful storm, Hurricane Irma.
SEP 6, 2017
Getting Help with Hurricane Harvey
Homeownership
If you've been affected by Hurricane Harvey, these four important steps can help you get on the path to recovery.
AUG 30, 2017
HARP Bonus: More Time, Low Rates
Homeownership
HARP has been extended until December 31, 2018 and rates are still historically low. All it takes is a few minutes to see if you qualify.
AUG 29, 2017
Mortgage Assistance in the Aftermath of Hurricane Harvey
Homeownership
If you are a homeowner impacted by Hurricane Harvey, mortgage relief may be available. Contact your mortgage company right away to discuss your options.
AUG 21, 2017
Going Green? Ask Questions First!
Homeownership
If you're looking to finance your energy–efficient home improvements, make sure you ask yourself these three questions first.
AUG 15, 2017
Paying Down the Mortgage: Meet Stephen, Brad and Patty
Homeownership
We reached out to three homeowners, all at various stages of their mortgage, and asked them how it felt to be paying off their home. Read what they had to say.
JUL 28, 2017
Making (Manufactured) Home Sweeter
Homeownership
Manufactured homes are an affordable option for many people, especially in rural areas. Our support for manufactured housing communities helps keep them that way.
JUL 25, 2017
3% Down in Three Easy Steps
Homeownership
Are you looking to take advantage of a 3% down payment? Here are the three steps that you need to know.
JUL 10, 2017
Get Smart(er) on Green
Homeownership
Knowing the facts about your home's energy consumption is important for everyone as the country continues to advance its efforts to conserve. How much do you know?
JUN 30, 2017
What Does Homeownership Mean? We Asked, They Answered
Homeownership
In honor of National Homeownership Month wrapping up — and our important mission of making home possible —we asked families across the nation, "What does homeownership mean to you?"
JUN 27, 2017
Freedoms of Homeownership
Homeownership
When considering the pros and cons of buying a home, one thing you can place in the 'pros' column is the independence owning a home can bring.
JUN 22, 2017
Homeownership: Beyond the Mortgage
Homeownership
The financial obligations of owning a home are more than just paying the mortgage. Similar to owning a car, your home will need regular upkeep to keep it safe and in great shape.
JUN 20, 2017
The Math Behind Putting Less Than 20% Down
Homeownership
Did you know that you could buy a home with a down payment of less than 20%? Lots of people do. Want to join them? Find out how all of the numbers add up.
JUN 14, 2017
How New Homeowners Can Keep Lawns and Wallets Green
Homeownership
Smart landscaping and lawn care are essential to protecting the value of the most expensive thing you are ever likely to buy: your home.
JUN 13, 2017
Five Benefits of Homeownership You Need to Know
Homeownership
If you're looking to take the plunge into homeownership, its likely you've made a pros and cons list. Here are five things that should go straight to the top of your pros list.
JUN 1, 2017
Celebrating Homeownership
Homeownership
This June we're celebrating National Homeownership Month by providing helpful tips on buying and owning.
MAY 25, 2017
How Much Does it Cost to Sell Your Home?
Homeownership
We all know that buying a home costs money, however, selling a home is costing homeowners across the country a surprising amount.
MAR 24, 2017
Why the 30-year Fixed Rate Wins "Most Popular"
Homeownership
Of all of the mortgage products out there, the 30–year, fixed–rate mortgage reigns as the most popular. Find out why it's been the favorite for years.
MAR 21, 2017
Need a Spring Refresh? Consider Refinishing Your Kitchen Cabinets
Homeownership
Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a popular DIY project that takes time and attention to detail, but the results will revitalize the look of your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a full remodel.
MAR 9, 2017
Who Do I Call...For Mortgage Help After a HAMP Interest-rate Reset?
Homeownership
Have you fallen behind on your monthly mortgage payments since the interest rate reset on your HAMP–modified loan and wondered if there's a way to help you get back on track?
FEB 28, 2017
The Importance of Affordable Housing and Homeownership
Homeownership
In commemoration of Black History Month, Freddie Mac held a panel discussion on the company's commitment to affordable housing, particularly in the African American community.
FEB 21, 2017
Remodeling Tips for Aging in Your Home
Homeownership
More than 60 percent of homeowners ages 55 and up say they would prefer to age in place versus downsize. Check out some remodeling strategies to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment that meets life's changing needs.
FEB 9, 2017
Who Do I Call...If I Need Mortgage Help While I'm Unemployed?
Homeownership
Are you struggling financially because you lost your job and want to know whether there's a way to reduce the strain of trying to make your monthly mortgage payments until you find a new job?
FEB 8, 2017
Need Housing Help? Start Here
Homeownership
At one of the 14 Freddie Mac–sponsored borrower help centers across the country, you can get tips and tools to prepare for homeownership.
FEB 6, 2017
It's All About You
Homeownership
Homebuyers and homeowners directly influence how Freddie Mac does business even though you're not our direct customers.
FEB 2, 2017
Finding "the One"
Homeownership
Today we're wrapping up our new year, new home blog series with tips on how to choose the right location and the right type of home for you.
FEB 1, 2017
Who Do I Call...If I Need to Move for a Military or Other Job Relocation?
Homeownership
Do you need to relocate within a tight timeframe because of a permanent change of military station or other job transfer and want to explore options for selling your home quickly?
JAN 31, 2017
The Cost of Moving In
Homeownership
Whether you're moving across town or across the country, you'll need to budget for the cost of transporting yourself and everything you own to a new home.
JAN 26, 2017
The Down Payment Math Challenge
Homeownership
If you're in the market to buy a home, the amount of your down payment is likely top of mind: three percent, five percent, 10 or 20. There's no right answer for everyone; what is right for you depends on some key factors, namely your savings and monthly budget.
JAN 25, 2017
Who Do I Call...For Mortgage Help During Financial Hardship?
Homeownership
If a major event in your personal life has dealt a long–term blow to your finances, are you wondering whether you might have your monthly mortgage payment lowered to fit your reduced income?
JAN 20, 2017
Forecasting 2017 with Freddie Mac's Chief Economist
Research and Analysis
As 2016 gives way to 2017, we move away from recapping the year that was and transition to prognosticating the year to come.
JAN 19, 2017
Improve Your Homebuying Odds: Get Pre-Approved
Homeownership
Anyone looking to buy — especially in a competitive market — should ask a reputable lender to pre–approve them for a mortgage.
JAN 4, 2017
Hacks for Un-Decking the Hall
Homeownership
The decorations that are so exciting to hang up can be just as daunting to take down as we move from the season of "Deck the Halls" to the season of "What do I do with it all?"
DEC 20, 2016
Who Do I Call...About a Letter I Received from Freddie Mac?
Homeownership
Did you receive a letter from Freddie Mac with the subject, "Borrower Notification: Freddie Mac Has Purchased Your Loan" but don't know what it means or what to do about it?
DEC 15, 2016
5 Ways to Reduce Heating Bills
Homeownership
There are dozens of ways a homeowner can reduce their heating bills. Here are fives ways that provide a good return on investment, are fairly easy to accomplish and are relatively inexpensive when compared with other energy improvements.
DEC 8, 2016
Homebuyers: Is 0,000 Waiting for You?
Homeownership
Eighty–seven percent of U.S. homes are eligible for one or more homeownership programs. The down payment program benefit most frequently found? About 0,000! Could you qualify?
NOV 30, 2016
Borrowing Power to Increase Nationwide in 2017
Homeownership
New rules mean you may be able to borrow more next year.
NOV 16, 2016
Considering A Manufactured Home?
Homeownership
Forget what you think you know about manufactured homes. With prices averaging 1,300, they might just be the affordable housing option you're looking for.
NOV 9, 2016
PMI: Your Top Questions Answered
Homeownership
Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is a big topic for homeowners and homebuyers alike and there is good reason, namely your wallet. Follow along as we share the top questions received today, along with the answers.
OCT 28, 2016
What Do Homebuying and High School Have in Common?
Homeownership
Counselors who can help you succeed. A high–school guidance counselor might have advised you on what you needed to do to graduate and the path you might take toward your future. A housing counselor can advise you on how to become and stay a homeowner.
OCT 27, 2016
The Energy Revolution and You
Homeownership
The topic of clean energy has been on the table for decades, with many left wondering if it would ever take flight. Well, it has, and it's power is making a big impact on the environment and your wallet.
OCT 20, 2016
A Down Payment of Less than 20% Is OK. Really.
Homeownership
Did you know that the average down payment among first–time homebuyers is 6% and it's 13–14% for repeat buyers, according to the National Association of Realtors®? It's possible to put down even less.
OCT 18, 2016
Baby Boomer Myths: Up-Close and Personal with Sean Becketti, Chief Economist
Research and Analysis
Baby Boomers comprise one-quarter of the population but own two-thirds of the housing wealth. Their decisions will reshape our housing market in the coming years. Freddie Mac's chief economist uses our latest survey results to bust some myths about 55+ homeowners and renters.
OCT 10, 2016
Myth vs. Fact Quiz
Homeownership
Over the last few months we've been dispelling the top two myths on everything from down payments to renting. See how well you know the facts in today's quiz.
OCT 6, 2016
Do You Know Your Energy?
Homeownership
Knowing the facts about energy consumption and conservation is important for all families as the U.S. continues to advance its efforts to conserve. We've hand picked some important facts: do you know your energy?
SEP 15, 2016
Energy Costs Across the Country: The Highs, The Lows
Homeownership
Monthly energy costs can vary wildly from state-to-state, with some states seeing nearly double the cost as others. And it's not just about low energy prices, it's about consumption. See how the states stack up.
SEP 13, 2016
Myth vs. Fact: Qualifying for a Mortgage
Homeownership
Confused about what it takes to get a mortgage in today's market? Here are the facts to dispel the two biggest myths about qualifying for one.
SEP 1, 2016
4 Reasons to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Homeownership
It's not just about lower utility bills. Learn about all the reasons that drive today's homebuyers and homeowners to be green at home.
AUG 25, 2016
Good News for HARP: More Time, Low Rates
Homeownership
HARP, one of the most successful crisis-era programs for homeowners has been extended to September 30, 2017. If you haven't acted yet, you now have more time to take advantage of today's low rates.
AUG 24, 2016
Green? Or Just a Shade of Green?
Homeownership
If you're in the market to buy an energy-efficient home, take note of a practice called "greenwashing" that may oversell the true "green." Is it really energy-efficient or are you being misled by a mere lightbulb?
AUG 23, 2016
Myth vs. Fact: 3% Down Mortgage
Homeownership
Not sure you qualify for our 3% down mortgage? Today we're dispelling the top two myths about what it takes.