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January 2026 Update: No Rate Change from Fed

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The Federal Reserve wrapped up its January 2026 meeting with no change to the Fed Funds rate , keeping it in the current range of 3.50%–3.75% . While there has been plenty of public pressure on the Fed to lower rates, today’s decision was not a surprise to the market. In fact, this marks a pause after a series of recent rate cuts and reflects the Fed’s “wait and see” approach as it evaluates where the economy goes next. Why Didn’t the Fed Cut Rates? The Fed has two primary goals: Keep inflation under control Maintain a healthy job market To justify additional rate cuts, the Fed needs to see one of two things: A noticeable slowdown in the job market, or Inflation moving convincingly closer to its 2% target At the moment, neither of these conditions is strong enough to warrant another cut. Employment remains relatively stable, and inflation is easing, but not yet at the level the Fed wants to see. When Could Rates Start Coming Down Again? Current market expectation...

Should I Wait to Buy a Home?

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  “Should I wait?” It’s the most common question buyers are asking right now, and for good reason. Mortgage rates have been moving, headlines are noisy, and buyers don’t want to make the wrong move. But when you look past the headlines, the market is quietly shifting in ways that can actually benefit prepared buyers. Mortgage rates are currently near a three-year low , even with some short-term ups and downs. At the same time, many markets are seeing improved inventory, less buyer frenzy, and more opportunity to make thoughtful decisions instead of rushed ones. This doesn’t mean every buyer should jump in immediately. It means the conversation should shift from “waiting for the perfect rate” to “building the right strategy.” In today’s market, buyers who win are the ones who: • Understand their numbers • Know their loan options • Are ready when the right home appears Timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. Positioning yourself correctly is not. If you or your clien...

Reflecting on 2025 and Looking Ahead

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As we step into 2026, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what an incredible year 2025 was for Oklahoma Mortgage Group and the families we were honored to serve across the Tulsa metro. Last year, our team helped 258 families achieve homeownership and funded over $72 million in home loans . Behind those numbers are first-time homebuyers, growing families, move-up buyers, relocations, refinances, and fresh starts, each with a unique story and goal. More Than Just Numbers While we’re proud of the milestones we reached in 2025, what matters most to us is how we reached them. Every loan represents trust; trust in our advice, our process, and our commitment to doing what’s right for each client. As a local Tulsa mortgage lender , we believe in educating buyers, clearly explaining options, and structuring loans that support both short-term affordability and long-term financial health. Whether a client is buying their first home or their fifth, our approach remains the same: people firs...

How to Get Up to $10,000 Toward Your Home Purchase

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  New for 2026: $10,000 Down Payment Assistance Now Available for Homebuyers One of the biggest obstacles to buying a home is coming up with the upfront cash. For 2026, there is good news for Tulsa and Oklahoma homebuyers. The Downpayment Plus® Program is officially live for 2026 and offers up to $10,000 in down payment assistance to eligible buyers. This program is provided through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago and is designed to help buyers purchase a primary residence with less money out of pocket. Even better, this program can be combined with OHFA (Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency) programs , creating powerful options for buyers who need additional assistance. How the Downpayment Plus® Program Works The Downpayment Plus® Program provides a grant that can be used toward down payment and or closing costs . When combined with the right loan program, it can significantly reduce the amount of cash a buyer needs at closing. Key program highlights include: • Up to $10,000 ...

OHFA Expands Teacher Program in Oklahoma

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If you work for a school in Oklahoma, homeownership just became more accessible. The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency has expanded its OHFA Teacher Program, opening eligibility to many more school employees across the state. The program no longer requires a teacher certification. What changed? Any employee of an Oklahoma accredited public school or private or parochial school may now qualify using a paystub. Who may be eligible? This includes a wide range of school staff, such as: School counselors Administrative and office staff Paraprofessionals Cafeteria workers Custodians and maintenance staff Other support personnel Current program highlights As of today, the OHFA Teacher Program offers: A discounted interest rate of 5.375% 3.5% down payment assistance for qualified buyers Why this matters With lower rates and built-in down payment assistance, this program can significantly improve affordability for school employees who serve Oklahoma communitie...

Fed Cuts Rates Again – What It Means for Oklahoma Homebuyers

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The Federal Reserve just announced another 0.25% rate cut , and if you’re thinking about buying a home in Oklahoma, you’re probably wondering what that means for your mortgage rate and monthly payment. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group , we’ve been walking our clients and realtor partners through what this actually means in real life—not just on Wall Street. Does a Fed Rate Cut Mean Lower Mortgage Rates? Not automatically. The Fed controls the Fed Funds Rate , which directly impacts short-term rates like credit cards, auto loans, and home equity lines of credit. Longer-term fixed mortgage rates , like the 30-year conventional loan most Oklahoma buyers use, are more influenced by: Inflation data Jobs reports Bond market expectations (especially the 10-year Treasury) So while a Fed cut can help create a friendlier rate environment over time, it doesn’t guarantee your 30-year mortgage rate will drop right away. Why Waiting for the “Perfect Rate” Can Backfire Many buyers say, ...

2026 Conforming Loan Limit Increases

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The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has announced the new 2026 conventional conforming loan limit , and it brings a major advantage to homebuyers in Tulsa and across Oklahoma. The loan limit for a one-unit single-family home is now $832,750 , an increase of more than $25,000 from last year. For buyers, this means greater purchasing power without needing a jumbo loan. Jumbo loans remain a great option for higher-budget buyers, but they typically require larger down payments, stronger credit, and more documentation. With the higher conforming loan limit, more Tulsa homebuyers can stay in the conventional category—often resulting in smoother approvals, lower mortgage insurance, and more affordable payment options. Why This Matters in the Tulsa Market As home prices continue to rise in Tulsa, Bixby, Jenks, Broken Arrow, and the surrounding Oklahoma communities, this increased limit allows buyers to finance higher-priced homes using a conventional loan instead of jumping straight i...

The VA Home Loan Advantage

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  For Veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses, the VA home loan program remains one of the most valuable benefits ever created. Yet many never use it. According to Veterans United, 70% of Veterans don’t realize they may qualify for a $0-down VA home loan . For Tulsa families, this can mean missing out on thousands in savings and a faster path to homeownership. Why VA Loans Are a Smart Option for Tulsa Homebuyers For nearly eight decades, VA loans have helped millions purchase homes with flexible guidelines and significant financial advantages. Key benefits include: 1. $0 Down Payment Many eligible buyers can purchase a home in Tulsa without saving for a down payment, making homeownership more attainable. 2. Lower Upfront Costs The VA limits the types of closing costs Veterans can be charged, helping preserve your cash for moving expenses, updates, or savings. 3. No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Unlike conventional or FHA loans, VA loans do not require...

Debunking the 50-Year Mortgage

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Now that the federal government has reopened, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and the current administration have reignited discussions around reforming the GSEs (Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac). Over the weekend, the administration publicly floated the idea of introducing a 50-year fixed-rate mortgage , calling it a potential “game-changer.” This proposal signals a bold departure from the traditional 30-year mortgage model, and a willingness to re-engineer one of the most foundational elements of the U.S. housing finance system in the name of affordability and access. But does it really solve affordability? Let’s break it down. The Concept: Stretching the Term to “Fix” Affordability Strategically, a 50-year mortgage would aim to lower monthly payments and make homeownership appear more accessible for younger and lower-income buyers. Rather than relaxing credit standards or offering subsidies, the administration seems to be exploring loan structure innovation as a new affo...

Celebrating Tulsa’s Realtors: GTAR Event!

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  At Oklahoma Mortgage Group , we believe Tulsa’s real estate professionals are the heartbeat of our community. As a Tulsa mortgage lender , we see every day how dedicated realtors work tirelessly to guide families through one of life’s biggest milestones — buying a home. That’s why we were thrilled to join the GTAR Realtor Appreciation Event and celebrate all the amazing agents who make Tulsa real estate shine. Appreciating Tulsa’s Best Realtors The GTAR Realtor Appreciation event was all about connection, gratitude, and fun. We loved being part of a day focused on saying thank you to the people who make the home-buying journey smoother and more meaningful. From first-time buyers to luxury listings, Tulsa realtors go above and beyond to serve their clients — and we’re proud to work alongside them every step of the way. Our Commitment to Tulsa Homebuyers As Tulsa’s best mortgage lender , our mission goes beyond providing great rates and loan options. We’re passionate about ed...

2026 Housing Market Outlook: Why Tulsa and Oklahoma Buyers Should Feel Optimistic

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After a few years where the housing market felt like it was stuck in neutral, 2026 could be the year Oklahoma real estate shifts back into gear . Across Tulsa, Bixby, Broken Arrow, and beyond, more families are expected to make a move as affordability begins to improve. More Homes Will Sell Experts predict an increase in home sales in 2026 as both buyers and sellers start to feel more confident. After several years of limited activity, this renewed momentum could open the door for you to buy or sell with stronger market conditions. Mortgage Rates Could Ease After peaking near 7% earlier this year, mortgage rates are expected to gradually decline into the low 6s or even high 5s, according to Fannie Mae, MBA, and Wells Fargo forecasts. Even a small dip can mean hundreds in monthly savings for Oklahoma buyers. Home Prices Will Rise at a Sustainable Pace Instead of the rapid price jumps we saw in past years, projections show more balanced growth — averaging around 2–4% nationwide. L...

How the Government Shutdown Could Affect Home Loans in Oklahoma

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The current federal government shutdown may cause temporary delays in certain mortgage programs, especially those backed by federal agencies. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group , we’re focused on helping homebuyers and real estate partners understand what this means and how to stay on track toward closing. FHA and VA Loans These programs continue to operate, but because they rely on federal staff for certain approvals, buyers may experience longer processing times or slower response from government offices. USDA Loans New USDA loan commitments and guarantees are on hold until the government resumes full operations. Homebuyers using USDA financing will need to wait for agency approval before closing. Conventional Loans Loans through Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are not directly impacted and continue to move forward as usual. Flood Insurance The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) cannot issue new or renewal policies during the shutdown. Buyers purchasing in a flood zone should secure ...

Tulsa Homebuyers Gain More Options with New $819,000 Conventional Loan Limit

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  There’s exciting news for both realtors and homebuyers in the Tulsa area: the conventional loan limit has just increased to $819,000 (up from $806,500). This change applies to new locks with funding dates on or after September 24, 2025 . What This Means for Buyers If you’re shopping for a home in Tulsa, Bixby, Jenks, or Broken Arrow, this increase gives you more buying power . You can now consider homes in a higher price range while still staying within conventional financing guidelines. That means you’ll avoid the stricter requirements of jumbo loans and keep the benefits of conventional financing, such as competitive interest rates, easier qualification, and more flexibility. What This Means for Realtors For realtors, this loan limit increase is a valuable tool in guiding clients. Buyers who may have been capped by the old $806,500 limit can now explore more homes that fit their needs. This is especially important in today’s market, where prices can easily cross that threshold...

Homeowners Are 43 Times Wealthier Than Renters

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According to the Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances, the typical U.S. homeowner has a net worth of $430,000 , while the average renter has just $10,000 . That means homeowners are, on average, 43 times wealthier than renters . Why the gap? ✅ Home price appreciation has boosted homeowner wealth over the last 5 years. ✅ Equity growth gives families the ability to move up to larger or more desirable homes. ✅ Renters simply don’t benefit from these wealth-building opportunities. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group in Tulsa , we see this every day. Homeownership doesn’t just provide a roof over your head—it’s one of the most reliable paths to financial security. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or ready to upgrade, our team can guide you through the mortgage process to help you build long-term wealth. If you’ve been thinking about buying in Tulsa, Jenks, Bixby, or Broken Arrow, now’s the time to explore your options. Contact Oklahoma Mortgage Group, your trusted Tulsa mortgage l...

Stillwater & Pryor Chosen for Google’s Next Big Investment

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  Big news for Oklahoma: Google is investing $9 billion over the next two years to expand its AI and cloud infrastructure. That includes a brand-new data center in Stillwater and major growth at the existing facility in Pryor. Here’s why it matters: Jobs & economic growth — Hundreds of new construction and permanent roles are expected, boosting local economies. Education & innovation — Google is partnering with OU and OSU to provide students with access to AI tools, training, and certifications, preparing the next generation of tech talent. Community impact — Local leaders are calling this one of the most transformative projects for Oklahoma, with long-term benefits for business, infrastructure, and quality of life. Oklahoma continues to attract national attention for its role in technology and innovation. With this kind of investment, the future of Stillwater, Pryor, and surrounding communities looks brighter than ever. Interested in relocating to Oklahoma...

No Money Down on Manufactured Homes

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  Did you know you can buy a manufactured home with no money down using the USDA loan program ? USDA loans aren’t just for farmhouses. Many buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas can qualify for this no-down-payment mortgage option. That means affordable homeownership could be closer than you think. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group, we’ll walk you through eligibility, help you understand the guidelines, and see if this program is the right fit for you. Homeownership is within reach — and you may not need a down payment to get there. Want to explore your options? Call or text us today at 918-361-1550, or set up a quick phone chat with our team to talk about USDA loans and manufactured home financing.

Why Waiting for Lower Mortgage Rates Could Cost Tulsa Buyers More

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Everyone’s waiting for mortgage rates to fall, and according to NAR, the “magic number” many buyers are hoping for is 6%. But will we see that anytime soon? Most forecasts show rates staying in the mid-to-low sixes through the end of next year. Still, right after the latest weaker-than-expected jobs report, rates dipped to 6.55% — the lowest point this year. That gave buyers and realtors hope that small changes may be on the way, but experts don’t expect a major drop in the near term. Here’s what matters: when rates eventually hit 6%, it could unlock 5.5 million more buyers. That means waiting could also mean facing far more competition and less negotiating power. If buying now works for your budget, moving sooner rather than later could give you an advantage before the market heats up again. Want to talk about your options and run the numbers together? Schedule a quick phone chat with us , or call/text Oklahoma Mortgage Group at 918-361-1550 today to discuss your next best steps.

Mortgage Rates in the 6s Are Here to Stay — Now What?

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If you're sitting around waiting for mortgage rates to suddenly fall off a cliff... you might be waiting a while. According to the latest forecasts from Fannie Mae, MBA, and Wells Fargo, rates are expected to stay in the mid-6% range through early 2026. Not sky-high, not dirt-cheap—just… steady. The average projection for Q3 2025 is 6.68%, and even by mid-2026, we’re only seeing rates dip into the low 6s. That’s not bad news—it’s just realistic. The economy is holding up, inflation is being stubborn, and the Fed isn’t rushing to slash rates. So if you're holding out for a magical 4.5% again, you may want to reevaluate your timeline. Here’s the thing: if you find the right house and it fits your life and your budget, it may still make sense to move now. You don’t want to pass up a great opportunity waiting for a big drop that—according to all the data—isn’t likely to happen. And remember, you’re not stuck with the rate forever. Refinance options down the road are always a po...

Mortgage Market Watch: Big Week for Rates

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This week is one of the most important of the year for mortgage rates —and it could impact your buying power. A series of major economic events are in motion, including the Federal Reserve meeting, Q2 GDP, jobs data, consumer sentiment reports, and updates on trade policy. Even though stocks are hitting record highs, bond yields (which influence mortgage rates) have been stuck in a tight range. That may change quickly depending on how this week's data comes in. If consumer spending remains strong, the Fed may delay any rate cuts. But signs of slowing could tip the scales toward easing policy in the months ahead. We’re also watching the Treasury Department’s bond buyback plans and the July Jobs Report. Any surprises in those numbers could cause mortgage rates to move—sometimes sharply. If you’re thinking about buying, refinancing, or locking in a rate, now is a great time to talk strategy. Even small shifts in rates can affect your monthly payment and long-term costs. The team a...

Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing – What That Means for Today’s Buyers

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Over the past few years, rising home prices and interest rates have made homebuying feel out of reach. But here’s some encouraging news: mortgage rates have finally started to stabilize , and that’s a big deal for Tulsa buyers. As shown in the chart below, rates have held steady in the mid-6% range since late 2024.  Forecasts from Fannie Mae, MBA, and Wells Fargo all agree, rates are expected to remain in the 6’s through 2026.  That means less guesswork and more confidence as you plan your move. Why it matters: When rates are all over the place, it’s hard to know what your monthly payment might be. But with this new stability, buyers have a clearer picture of their budget — and that makes buying a home feel less risky and more realistic. Expert forecasts suggest rates might tick down slowly, but we likely won’t see a dramatic drop anytime soon. Trying to time the market could mean missing today’s opportunity. Ready to run the numbers and see what your monthly payment co...