Instagram story viewer> @ceerahorton> Posts
ceerahorton(@ceerahorton)'s profile avatar HD Profile

ceerahorton

@ceerahorton

312
followers
1352
following
Broker Associate | Real Broker, LLC
GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD
Embracing my journey | Empowering others
POSTS STORIES REELS TAGGED
A float-down rate gives you the best of both worlds. It allows you to lock in your interest rate while keeping the flexibility to take advantage of a lower rate if market rates drop before closing. There can be a fee for this option, so always work with your lender to see if the savings outweigh the cost and to understand your break-even point. Lower interest rates mean more buying power and lower monthly payments, but the math needs to make sense for your situation. In some cases, you can let your initial rate lock expire, work with a new lender, and secure the lower rate without paying the float-down fee. The key is to find a lender that offers a free one-time float-down option. It is a great way to stay protected while keeping flexibility in a changing market. Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com by @ceerahorton
2
a year ago
Download
Mortgage rates dipped slightly this week, holding near their lowest point in a month. Normally, when the bond market weakens, interest rates rise. But the end of this week played out a little differently. The bond market saw some gains Thursday afternoon, but because most lenders only update rates once a day and usually only when there is a significant market shift, many did not have time to adjust their rate sheets before markets reopened on Friday. By then, the bond market had slipped slightly, giving back some of Thursday’s late gains. Typically, that kind of movement would lead to a slight rate increase, but since most lenders hadn’t yet adjusted from Thursday’s gains, rates held steady instead. Even so, Friday’s bond market remained stronger than Thursday's first half and only appeared weaker when measured against the late-day surge. Overall, the changes were modest, things evened out, and rates held near their lowest point in a month. Currently, rates are the lowest we have seen in weeks. Looking ahead, keep an eye on inflation reports, job data, and Federal Reserve updates, as these are key factors that influence where rates go next. If inflation cools and data point to a weaker labor market with higher unemployment, rates could ease further. However, if tariffs drive prices higher or job data indicate a stronger labor market, rates could trend back up. Source: Mortgage News Daily by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
This lock protects the borrower from market fluctuations. In other words, even if interest rates rise before the loan closes, the borrower will still receive the lower rate that was locked in. Therefore, their estimated monthly payment won’t increase before closing. However, if rates drop, the borrower generally won’t benefit from the lower rate unless the lender offers a “float-down” option that allows one adjustment during the lock period.   In markets like the one we are in now, where inflation is uncertain, tariffs are shifting, the government is shut down, and we do not have key reports like unemployment data to help predict what is next, a rate lock can be a smart move. It gives you stability when the market does not, helping you stay one step ahead no matter what happens.   Find a lender that offers free rate locks with no hidden costs. Make sure it’s not built into your interest rate or added as extra fees. Always ask your lender directly and review your loan estimate carefully to confirm there are no additional charges regarding the rate lock. If you need to extend your rate lock or want to lock for more than 30 days, keep in mind that some lenders may charge a fee for that.   Reach out to me today, and I will connect you with one of my trusted lenders to explore your rate lock options and understand your full buying power in today’s market.   Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com by @ceerahorton
1
a year ago
Download
USDA loans bring a little country charm to homeownership. With no down payment and affordable terms, they make living outside the city limits feel like a winning hand. by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
VA loans are the hero of home financing. Built for service members, veterans, and eligible spouses, they offer no down payment, no mortgage insurance, and competitive rates as a true thank you for their service. by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
FHA loans are all about meeting you where you are. With low down payments and flexible credit requirements, they make stepping into homeownership easier and more accessible. Because buying your first home should feel just the way it is meant to be-possible. by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
Conventional loans are the little black dress of mortgages. Classic, versatile, and always in style. Whether it’s your first home, a second getaway, or an investment, they’ve got options to fit your goals. by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
If you already have a mortgage and are concerned about payments, contact your loan servicer to discuss options like forbearance. You can also check the official websites for FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac for updates on assistance programs. Please note that both the balance and interest continue to accrue during forbearance, and once the forbearance ends, you are still responsible for the past-due amounts. Forbearance Basics: A forbearance temporarily pauses or reduces your mortgage payments. •During this time, interest continues to accrue on the unpaid principal (unless your specific loan type provides otherwise, which is rare). •The unpaid payments (the arrears) don’t just disappear; they must be repaid later. What Happens After Forbearance Ends: •Lump Sum (Rarely Required Upfront): Some borrowers worry they’ll owe everything at once, but most servicers will not demand full repayment immediately unless the loan terms state so. •Repayment Plan: Past-due amounts may be spread out over several months on top of your regular payment. •Payment Deferral: Missed payments may be moved to the end of the loan, becoming due when you refinance, sell, or pay off the mortgage. •Loan Modification: In some cases, your loan terms may be adjusted to make repayment more manageable. However, this modification could yield a higher interest rate than your current one. Important Note: The exact repayment structure depends on your loan type (FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional) and your servicer’s policies. Borrowers should always confirm their specific options before entering forbearance. Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
Housing Impacts of a Government Shutdown HUD & FHA Loans: •The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will continue endorsing new single-family loans. •Core functions, like loan servicing, will remain in place. Government sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac (Conventional): •Since they don’t rely on federal appropriations, both will usually operate as normal. •However, certain requirements could face delays: -Employment Verification – could be difficult for federal employees. -Tax Transcripts – Freddie Mac requires borrowers to sign a 4506T, but transcripts don’t need to be processed before closing. Fannie Mae can verify income through its Desktop Underwriter system without a 4506T. -Social Security Verification – in rare cases where a number is disputed, delays may occur. -Flood Insurance Proof – private flood insurance is an alternative if federal verification is unavailable. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): •New or renewal NFIP policies cannot be issued during a lapse of authority. •Existing policies stay in force until they expire, and claims will continue to be paid until funding is exhausted. •NFIP policies can still be transferred from seller to buyer during a lapse. Many regulators allow flexibility, and private flood insurance is another option. USDA Rural Housing Loans: •USDA will not issue new direct or guaranteed loans during a shutdown. •Direct loan closings are paused. •Conditional commitments for guaranteed loans may still be reviewed, and some lenders may proceed at their own risk without a formal guarantee. VA Loans: •The Department of Veterans Affairs will continue guaranteeing home loans. •Lenders can still process applications, but reduced staffing could cause slowdowns with appraisals, certificates of eligibility, and approvals. Overall Takeaway: While many loan programs continue in some form, reduced staffing and delayed verifications can slow the process. If you’re in the middle of buying a home, check with your lender and real estate professional to see what options are available. Source: nar.realtor This too shall pass. by @ceerahorton
0
a year ago
Download
While you should never purchase more home than your budget allows, lower interest rates can increase your buying power and reduce your monthly mortgage payment. Example: •Old rate: $400,000 at 7.000% = $3,312.71 per month •New rate: $400,000 at 6.000% = $3,057.60 per month •Monthly savings: $255.11 Combine these lower rates with seller concessions (help with closing costs), down payment assistance, and stronger negotiating power (like credits for repairs, warranties, rate buy downs, price reductions, or even agent fees), and you are looking at less money out of pocket and a greater opportunity to step into homeownership. Click the link in my bio to see the latest market update and explore strategies to maximize your savings. Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com Grant Lee Senior Loan Officer NMLS ID #2411691/Branch NMLS #2653957 813-618-9095 grantl@cmghomeloans.com by @ceerahorton
2
a year ago
Download
The market recently anticipated a Fed rate cut due to weaker labor data and rising unemployment. For Buyers: Conditions are shifting in your favor. In many markets, sellers are offering concessions, and with more listings available, you now have stronger negotiating power. Homes are sitting longer on the market, some due to higher rates which the recent drop has begun to ease, and others because they were simply overpriced. This opens the door for you to negotiate both price reductions and favorable terms (e.g., warranties, real estate agent fees, repairs, etc). For Sellers: If your home is priced and marketed correctly, you can benefit from the new wave of buyer demand. However, if you currently hold a lower interest rate, such as 2–4%, you may not feel motivated to sell. Still, for those who need to move due to a job, family change, or other life events, now can be a good opportunity to enter the market strategically. Market Outlook: Uncertainty remains high. The Federal Reserve is watching unemployment and inflation closely. Historically, rising unemployment leads to rate cuts, and falling inflation brings interest rates down as well. However, new tariffs could add pressure to inflation, and the Fed has signaled that another cut may not come until 2026 depending on how inflation trends. What You Can Do: Sellers, keep a close eye on the market, partner with a trusted real estate professional, and have your strategy ready to move quickly if rates shift again. Buyers, take advantage of today’s concessions and negotiating power by getting pre-approved and working with a knowledgeable agent who can guide you through this unique market. Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com by @ceerahorton
1
a year ago
Download
June + July Market Check-In The market is showing signs of a softer market: * Median sale prices dipped slightly ($410,000 in June → $405,000 in July) * Homes sold for 96.2% of their original list price in June, compared to 95.7% in July — showing fewer homes selling at full asking price * Median time to sale stretched from 74 days in June to 79 days in July * Closed sales slowed (3,788 in June → 3,508 in July), while active inventory held steady at just over 14,000 homes (The slowdown in sales may also reflect seasonal trends, as many families pause their home search to get settled and prepare for the upcoming school year in August) Months supply of inventory shows how long it would take to sell all current homes on the market at today’s pace: * 4–6 months = balanced market * Under 4 = seller’s market * Over 6 = buyer’s market What does this mean? At 4.4 months, we are technically in balanced territory. However, with longer days on market, more price cuts, and more active listings (supply) than buyers (demand), the market is leaning toward a buyer’s market. Translation: more options, more negotiating power, and a greater chance for seller concessions. Waiting for the “perfect” moment could end up costing you. If interest rates fall, home prices often climb as competition increases. Connecting with the right real estate professionals now can help you build a smart game plan, so you’re prepared to move with confidence when the right opportunity comes along. Ceera Horton BK#3342707 Broker Associate, Realtor, GRI, PMP, RENE, PSA, AHWD Real Broker, LLC 813-440-2868 ceera@ceerahorton.com ceerahorton.com by @ceerahorton
1
a year ago
Download

Download All

Save the photos and videos currently loaded on this page.

0Photos
0Videos
Ready to download 0 / 0

Keep this tab open until your download is ready.
back to up