Real Estate

Many buyers wait until they feel ready to buy a home, only to be disappointed later when they finally speak with a lender. The truth is, you may be closer to qualifying than you think. Understanding the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval, and starting the right conversations early, can save you time, stress, and missed opportunities.

If you’ve heard that Fannie Mae “got rid of the minimum credit score,” you’re not alone — and you’re not crazy for being confused. While credit scores still matter, the rules around how they’re used have changed. This post breaks down what actually happened, what it means for first-time buyers, and why you may be closer to buying a home than you think.

IID customers can qualify for $1,500–$2,500 in FREE energy upgrades in 2026. From smart thermostats to AC improvements, this first-come, first-served program can help lower energy bills and boost comfort—at no cost.

The CalHFA Dream For All Down Payment Assistance program is reopening its lottery on February 24, 2026, giving first-time, first-generation buyers another chance at up to 20% in down payment help. For Coachella Valley residents, this program could be a powerful opportunity to overcome high home prices, buy sooner, and start building equity in communities like Palm Springs, Cathedral City, La Quinta, and Indio.

Wondering how a government shutdown could impact your home purchase or sale? Here is what you need to know and why most transactions continue with little disruption.

The Federal Reserve just cut rates by 0.25%, but that doesn’t mean mortgage rates automatically follow. In fact, after the announcement, mortgage rates actually ticked up slightly. Here’s what the Fed’s decision really means for buyers and sellers right now.

Pre-qualification and pre-approval are two very different but crucial steps in the homebuying process. Pre-qualification gives you an estimate of your buying power, while pre-approval proves to sellers that you’re ready to purchase. Today, both can be done online, and with the right lender, you can even get pre-approved with a soft credit pull.

Thinking about your next property? Learn the key differences between a second home and an investment property so you can make the right move.

Learn more about the PLHA Down Payment Assistance program through Riverside County. Offering up to $100k in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers!