Mortgage rates moved a bit higher last week. As of Friday, February 6, 2026, the average 30-year fixed conforming rate was 6.083% per Optimal Blue. Optimal Blue’s mortage rate index is based on an average from rates that were locked by lenders who utilize OB. We don’t know what the factors are for pricing the rates and these rates are from Friday so they are expired. For current mortgage rates based on your personal scenario, please contact me.
The Mortgage Porter Weekly – Mortgage Rates for the Week of February 9, 2026
February 9, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Bank Statement Loans for Business Owners
February 5, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Bank Statement Loans for Self-Employed Borrowers
A Mortgage Option Designed Around Cash Flow — Not Tax Returns
If you’re self-employed, a business owner, or an independent contractor, qualifying for a mortgage can feel frustrating. You may have strong cash flow and consistent deposits, yet your tax returns don’t always reflect your true earning power.
That’s where bank statement loans come in.
A bank statement loan is a Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) program designed specifically for self-employed borrowers. Instead of using tax returns, this program allows borrowers to qualify based on actual deposits shown on personal or business bank statements, providing a more realistic picture of income. [Read more…]
The Mortgage Porter Weekly – February 2, 2026
February 2, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Even though I’m on the road this week enjoying a little vacation time, I’m still keeping an eye on the mortgage market and the key economic reports that can influence interest rates.
As of January 30, 2026, the **average 30-year fixed conforming mortgage rate is approximately 6.066%. Rates continue to move within a fairly tight range, but this week’s economic data could bring some volatility—especially toward the end of the week.
What the Market Is Watching This Week
It’s Fed Day!
January 28, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Today is “Fed Day” when the FOMC wraps up their two-day meeting and announce if there will be any changes to the Fed Funds rate.
Markets are widely expecting that there will be no change to the rate today. This will be announced at 11:00 Seattle time.
Remember, mortgage rates are not directly impacted by the Fed Funds rate (except for home equity lines of credit that follow the prime rate).
Mortgage interest rates do and will react to what the Fed’s actions and statements are today as mortgage rates are based bonds (mortgage-backed securities).
If you would like to have current mortgage rates based on your personal scenario, please contact me – no credit pull required!
Remodeling Your Home: Financing Options to Consider for a Major Renovation
January 27, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Recently, I spoke with a Seattle homeowner who is planning a major remodel. Like many homeowners, he initially reached out asking about a HELOC — which is often the first option people think of when they want to improve their home. They currently have a very low rate with their existing mortgage, which is one reason why they’re considering a home equity line of credit.
As we talked through his plans, budget, and long-term goals, it became clear that there were several ways to approach financing a remodel, each with very different advantages and limitations.
If you’re considering remodeling your home — whether it’s a kitchen overhaul, an addition, or a full transformation — understanding these options upfront can help you choose the strategy that fits your project best. [Read more…]
Mortgage Porter Weekly: Mortgage Rates, the Fed, and What’s Driving the Market This Week
January 26, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Mortgage rates continue to be influenced by a combination of economic data, bond market activity, and Federal Reserve messaging. While headlines often focus on whether the Fed is cutting rates, mortgage rates are reacting to a much broader set of factors — especially what’s happening in the bond market.
In this week’s Mortgage Porter Weekly, I’m breaking down what’s moving rates right now and what homebuyers and homeowners should be paying attention to.
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