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THIS WEEK
Picking the right loan program for you
Every mortgage isn't built the same. The loan program you choose affects your rate, your payment, and your long-term costs—so it's worth getting it right from the start.
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RATE SNAPSHOT · November 4, 2026
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CONVENTIONAL 30-YR
7.24% 30-day Range: 7.24%–7.58%
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CONVENTIONAL 15-YR
6.70% 30-day Range: 6.59%–6.93%
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FHA 30-YR
7.02% 30-day Range: 7.02%–7.33%
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VA 30-YR
6.88% 30-day Range: 6.88%–7.25%
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Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED · Includes our pricing adjustment · Informational only
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Loan Programs
Why your loan type matters more than you think
Most people focus on the rate when they're shopping for a mortgage, but the loan program you choose shapes your entire borrowing experience. Fixed-rate loans lock in your payment for the life of the loan—there's real peace of mind in that consistency. Adjustable-rate programs may work differently. Then there are options like FHA, conventional, VA, and USDA loans, each with different rules about down payments, credit requirements, and who qualifies. The right program for your situation depends on how long you plan to stay in your home, how much you have to put down, and what kind of payment stability matters to you. If you've never talked through these options with someone who knows your full picture, now's a good time. I'm here to walk you through what makes sense for your goals. Let's chat about which loan program fits your situation best.
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Tip of the Week
Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the loan amount. Ask your lender for a Loan Estimate so there are no surprises.
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Tips for Homeowners
Protecting Yourself from Mortgage Scams
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1.
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Wire fraud is one of the fastest-growing real estate scams. Never wire closing funds based solely on email instructions — always verify account numbers by calling your title company at a number you look up yourself.
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2.
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Loan modification and foreclosure rescue scams target homeowners in distress. Legitimate help is available free through HUD-approved counseling agencies at 800-569-4287.
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3.
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Be wary of unsolicited offers to refinance or cash out equity at terms that sound unusually favorable. If someone contacts you out of the blue, verify their NMLS license number at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Rhett Laufenburger team any time and we'll walk you through your options.
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