Considering a HELOC as Rates Trend Lower
Is a HELOC Right for Your Next Chapter?
As interest rates begin to trend lower, many homeowners are taking a fresh look at how they can put their home’s equity to work. A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can be a flexible financial tool that helps families navigate big moments,...
The Lock-In Effect Is Loosening: A Quiet Shift in the Housing Market
For the last several years, one phrase has shaped the housing conversation more than almost any other: the mortgage rate lock-in effect.
During the pandemic, millions of homeowners locked in historically low mortgage rates—many below 3%. While that was great news at the time,...
Mortgage Rates Moving Lower — A Positive Shift for 2026
Across the early weeks of 2026, mortgage interest rates in the U.S. have started to trend downward, offering a more encouraging environment for homebuyers, homeowners, and local partners alike. After a period of higher borrowing costs in 2024 and much of 2025, these changes reflect...
How to Save for a Down Payment Faster: 10 Practical Tips
Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones—and for many buyers, saving for a down payment is the biggest hurdle. As trusted mortgage partners, we're here to help buyers feel prepared, confident, and informed throughout the process.
At BankFirst Mortgage, we believe small,...
2026 Credit Score Playbook: The Biggest Changes
You may have heard some buzz about credit scores changing, and there’s truth to it. 2026 is shaping up to be a year of transition in how lenders evaluate borrowers, especially when it comes to mortgages. The good news? The basics of healthy credit haven’t changed, which makes...