Karen Lawson, Editor

Karen Lawson enjoys researching and writing about mortgage lending and housing industry news. She relies on 20 years of experience in mortgage lending and servicing for writing about current housing trends and markets. You can also find Karen on Google+

Articles by Karen Lawson

UncategorizedNovember 5, 2012

Mortgage Rates Drop Monday Ahead Of U.S. Election Results

Mortgage rates of all types fell Monday -- conforming, FHA, VA, USDA and jumbo. Home buyers and refinancers are benefitting from the effects of Election Day and Hurricane Sandy.

UncategorizedOctober 4, 2012

Mortgage Rates : Climbed Thursday Ahead Of September Jobs Report

On the same day that Freddie Mac announced 30-year mortgage rates at 3.36%, rates of all types got worse. FHA, VA and conforming rates climbed Thursday.

UncategorizedSeptember 16, 2012

FHA 203k Mortgage : A Construction Loan From The FHA

In 2011, more than $115 billion was spent on home upgrades nationwide. Construction loans via the FHA's 203k program remain popular.

UncategorizedSeptember 1, 2012

FHA 203k Eligibility May Soon Expand To Real Estate Investors

HUD is expected to make its FHA 203k construction loan available to real estate investors soon.

UncategorizedAugust 24, 2012

Mortgages On Maternity Leave : MGIC Settlement Streamlines Loan Approvals

MGIC settles housing discrimination claim with the Department of Justice and agrees to revise approval guidelines related to family leave.

UncategorizedJune 12, 2012

HARP, FHA Streamline Refinance Support “Underwater” Households

Falling home prices have lowered homeowner wealth nationwide. HARP and the FHA Streamline Refinance program are helping families save money.

UncategorizedApril 30, 2012

Short Sales Play Growing Role in Home Sales

New Short Sale rules for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac require 30-day approvals.

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