This week, the real estate and mortgage world is closely watching the ongoing shutdown in Washington, and how it could disrupt lending processes. While the mortgage machine may continue to roll, small hiccups could cause big delays. At the same time, builders are stepping up with incentives to lure hesitant buyers, and new Zillow data shows sellers using off-market strategies could be missing out on thousands. Staying informed during a shutdown helps pros and consumers alike navigate smarter decisions.
A Government Shutdown Could Slow the Mortgage Process
Read the Full Story → Realtor.com
The ongoing federal shutdown has housing professionals on high alert. While Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac aren’t funded through annual congressional budgets—and will likely keep operating—services that depend on other government departments could see interruptions.
Fannie and Freddie issued temporary lender guidance (LL‑2025‑03) to offer some flexibility, including relaxed documentation standards. But other areas—like IRS tax transcripts, flood insurance processing, and certain FHA/VA underwriting verifications—may experience bottlenecks.
Ultimately, while the housing market won’t come to a halt, the shutdown could throw sand in the gears. Professionals who stay ahead of these slowdowns will be best positioned to guide clients calmly and confidently.
Park Place Finance Helps Agents, Loan Officers & Investors with Fix & Flip Loans
Park Place Finance (PPF) empowers mortgage loan officers, real estate agents, and investors with private capital Fix & Flip Renovation Loans that fund fast and flexibly. As a direct private lender with in-house capital, PPF can close in as little as 3–5 days and process rehab draws within 24 hours—keeping deals moving smoothly.
Whether you’re a first-time flipper or experienced investor, PPF welcomes all experience levels.
- Up to 93% Loan-to-Cost (LTC) for experienced borrowers
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Agents and loan officers trust PPF for fast, flexible lending that helps clients acquire, renovate, and flip investment properties with ease.
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Low‑Rate Homeowners Are Finally Letting Go — But Only for the Right New Deal
Read the Full Story → Realtor.com
A surprising shift is underway: some homeowners with sub‑4 % mortgage rates—once thought immobile—are trading them in to move into new homes, provided builders offer compelling incentives.
Why now? The share of mortgages in the 3 %–4 % band has slipped, even as builders roll out promotions like rate buydowns, closing cost credits, and upgrades to tip the scale. These incentives are making it possible for homeowners to justify giving up their low rates.
Still, the move is selective. Many will only sell if the financial benefit is clear enough to offset the cost of a higher rate. New‑build incentives are emerging as one of the few levers strong enough to coax these “locked‑in” homeowners into action.
Off-MLS Listings Are Costing Sellers Thousands
Read the Full Story → Zillow
According to a new Zillow study, sellers who bypass the MLS lose an average of $4,975—about 1.5% less than those who go public with their listings. The data spanned 2023–2024 sales and shows how limited exposure can hurt final sale prices.
In states like California, the gap is even wider. Sellers using private or pocket listings there netted nearly 3.7% less—roughly $30,000 on a median sale.
While some sellers value privacy or exclusivity, the data suggests wide exposure usually wins. Sharing the listing with the largest buyer pool possible leads to stronger offers.
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