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22 U.S. metros where buying a home is cheaper than renting

Housing Wire

“Coming up with the down payment is still a huge barrier, but for those who can make it work, homeownership may come with lower monthly costs and the ability to build long-term wealth in the form of home equity – something you lose out on as a renter,” says Divounguy. Need help advising on rent vs. buying? Consider the pros and cons of each.

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Rocket Companies announces deal to acquire Redfin for $1.75 billion

Housing Wire

billion in equity. The deal, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both Rocket Companies and Redfin, is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2025. Today, Rocket Companies announced it has entered into an agreement to purchase digital real estate brokerage Redfin in an all-stock transaction valued at $1.75

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No Congress, no rate hikes: Bill Ackman’s plan to privatize the GSEs

Housing Wire

Bill Ackman, the billionaire founder of Pershing Square Capital Management , has an audacious plan to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac without congressional approval. The proposal involves the federal government forgiving hundreds of billions of dollars while also reducing capital requirements.

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The Advice First-Time Homebuyers Need To Hear

Keeping Current Matters

Tip #1: Get Pre-Approved First Rocket Mortgage says this is one of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make. With your lender’s help, you’ll be able to get pre-approved for your home loan. Start building equity. And it’s easy to see why. Looking at homes online is fun.

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Are you prepared to respond as borrower demand shifts?

Housing Wire

While retaining existing customers should remain a key priority, as interest rates fluctuate, lenders should be prepared to support an increase in new business for refinances, purchases and home equity lending. To earn the borrower’s loyalty and trust, the digital application experience must be as intuitive and efficient as possible.

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Homestreet enters agreement to merge with Mechanics Bank

Housing Wire

Under the terms of the merger which was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies HomeStreet Bank will be merged with and into Mechanics Bank. The companies’ announcement said that HomeStreet has a pre-transaction estimated equity value of $300 million, while Mechanics Bank has equity value of $3.3

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What’s the Cheapest Way to Get Equity Out of My Home

The Mortgage Report

Getting Pre-Approved Down Payment Assistance Buying With Low Credit Buying With Low Income Buying With A Disability Who Has The Best Mortgage Rates? Home equity loans offer fixed rates and lump sums, good for planned expenses. Reverse and shared equity options skip monthly payments but may cost more long term.