Posts

OHFA Expands Teacher Program in Oklahoma

Image
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

Image
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

Image
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

Image
  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

Image
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!

Image
  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

Image
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

Image
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

Image
  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

Image
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

Image
  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

Image
  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

Image
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?

Image
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

Image
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

Image
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...

The 20% Down Payment Myth Is Holding Buyers Back — But It Shouldn’t

Image
Do you think you need 20% down to buy a home? Think again. That outdated belief is stopping too many first-time homebuyers in Tulsa from getting started, but Oklahoma Mortgage Group is here to change that. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median down payment for first-time homebuyers is only 9% , not 20%.  Even better? Many buyers may qualify for 0 % down loan programs,  such as   VA and USDA loans , or low down payment options like FHA and conventional 3% programs. Even more surprising? Nearly 80% of first-time buyers qualify for down payment assistance , but only 13% actually use it . That’s a huge missed opportunity. These down payment assistance (DPA) programs can offer up to $17,000 toward your purchase. Whether you’re a teacher, firefighter, Veteran, or just starting out, there may be free money waiting to help you buy your first home. 👉 Tulsa buyers: Don’t let myths or lack of info hold you back. You may be closer to homeownership than y...

What to Expect for Mortgage Interest Rates in the Second Half of 2025

Image
If you're considering buying a home in Tulsa, the second half of 2025 could bring a welcome shift. According to recent projections from leading housing experts, mortgage interest rates are expected to ease slightly , falling into the mid-to-low 6% range by year-end. For buyers, this means more purchasing power. For realtors, it's the perfect time to re-engage clients who may have paused their home search. As of May 13, 2025, the average forecast across five major sources—MBA, NAHB, Zillow, Wells Fargo, and Fannie Mae—shows an average projected rate of 6.46% . Notably, Fannie Mae projects the lowest at 6.20% , while MBA estimates the highest at 6.70% . This range suggests growing optimism about economic stability and inflation control. For those seeking a Tulsa home loan , this is a  crucial time to connect with Oklahoma Mortgage Group (OMG).  We understand the nuances  of the Tulsa real estate market. Locking in a rate or preparing now could help you take advantage of be...

Unlocking Homeownership: Down Payment Assistance Programs for Tulsa Homebuyers

Image
Buying a home in Tulsa just got easier. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to upgrade without draining your savings, Oklahoma offers several down payment assistance (DPA) programs that can help you get the keys to your dream home with little or  no  money down. What is Down Payment Assistance? Down Payment Assistance (DPA) helps cover part, or all of the down payment and sometimes closing costs. In Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma, these programs come in the form of: Grants (no repayment) Forgivable loans (repaid only if you sell or refinance early) Deferred or repayable loans (often with low or no interest) Why It Matters for Tulsa Homebuyers With rising home prices, many qualified buyers are being held back by one key factor: the need for cash for the down payment. These DPA programs open the door to homeownership, especially for first-time buyers, teachers, first responders, and families who just need a little help to get started. Top Down Pa...

Tulsa Veterans: Don’t Miss Out on This $0 Down VA Home Loan Advantage

Image
For over 80 years, VA home loans have helped Veterans and active-duty service members achieve the dream of homeownership. Yet, many are still unaware of one of the most powerful VA loan benefits: no down payment required . A recent Veterans United report reveals that only 3 in 10 Veterans know they can buy a home with $0 down using a VA loan . That means 70% of eligible Veterans could be missing out on one of the best home financing options available. At Oklahoma Mortgage Group (OMG) in Tulsa , we’re committed to helping Veterans understand and use their well-earned benefits. VA loans offer: $0 down payment options No private mortgage insurance (PMI) Low fixed interest rates Flexible credit guidelines Limited closing costs These benefits make homeownership more accessible and affordable for those who have served. If you're a Veteran in Tulsa or anywhere in Oklahoma, don't leave this benefit on the table. Contact the experts at Oklahoma Mortgage Group to ch...