Monthly Mortgage Newsletter – December 2025
The Future of Mortgage Rates
If you’re interested in buying a home, this may be a good time to get in on the action. We’re heading into a buyer-friendly market, and mortgage rates are relatively stable. Fannie Mae forecasts 30-year fixed mortgage rates will average 6.3% through the end of 2025, while the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) projects rates to be 6.4%.
_ _ _ _
50-Year Mortgage Idea Falls Flat
The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, is exploring the possibility of introducing 50-year mortgage terms. However, the idea has been met with much controversy. 
Supporters suggest it could lower monthly payments and increase affordability. Meanwhile, critics counter that payments spread out over 50 years would result in an exorbitant amount of interest paid by the consumer, with a much slower accumulation of equity compared to a 30-year mortgage.
Additionally, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act does not permit the government to create a 40- or 50-year mortgage. Changes to this bill would have to go through a legislative process and be approved by Congress before this idea takes off.
_ _ _ _
Shopping Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday
It’s tempting to rely on credit cards at this time of year, but the average interest rate on credit cards is 21.47% to 24.04%. Here are a few tips to navigate holiday season shopping, and hopefully avoid leaning on credit cards.
Make a List: Make a list of everyone you must get presents for, and set a budget for each person. This will help to avoid overspending.
Compare Prices: Watch for sales at your local stores and Internet outlets. Take every opportunity to use coupons and promo codes to keep your expenses down.
Consider Alternative Options: Think about handmade gifts, if you’re crafty. If you have a large family, take a team approach and try a Secret Santa type of gift giving, or a White Elephant game. Either of these ideas work just fine for adults, and it leaves you with a bigger budget to spend on children.
Homeowners with large credit card balances may have the option to take advantage of their built-up equity to pay down stubborn credit card debt. For example, a HELOC allows you to decide how much equity you would like to use. (Typically, up to 80% to 85% of the home’s appraised value.) This money can be used for any purpose, and the interest rate on the loan is much less than what you would pay on credit cards.
If you – or your friends and family – need a mortgage professional that takes 5-star service to a new level, please give me a call. My team and I are ready to help!