The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) recently released their 2024 Internet Crime report which offers critical insights into the cyber threat landscape based on aggregated data from reported complaints.  The FBI says that in 2024, the top three cyber crimes by number of reported complaints were phishing/spoofing, extortion, and personal data breaches.  In addition, victims of investment fraud, specifically those involving cryptocurrency, reported the most losses—totaling over $6.5 billion. “Reporting is one of the first and most important steps in fighting crime so law enforcement can use this information to combat a variety of frauds and scams…The IC3, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, is only as successful as the reports it receives; that’s why it’s imperative that the public immediately report suspected cyber-enabled criminal activity to the FBI.”  Said FBI Director, Kash Patel. Click here to read the full report.   The post …

Amid persistent inflation, high interest rates, and growing anxiety about a potential recession, nearly 30% of U.S. homeowners are considering tapping into their home equity in the next 12 months, according to a new national survey from MeridianLink, Inc. The survey of approximately 1,500 homeowners found that 28% are likely to take out a home equity loan or line of credit (HELOC)—a notable increase from 21% in 2022. The seven-point jump suggests that more Americans are looking to access the cash tied up in their homes as a buffer against rising costs and economic instability. These findings come as the U.S. economy sends mixed signals. While the labor market remains strong, inflation continues to erode purchasing power. Mortgage rates, although slightly lower than their 2023 peaks, still hover near 7% for a 30-year fixed loan. The Federal Reserve has paused its aggressive rate-hiking cycle, but concerns linger about when and …

Innovative solutions combined with intelligence from property data providers are two of the foundations of digital analytics. But there is a third element. For superior results, the format of data delivery matters. Institutional investors, mortgage providers, fintech, and proptech companies are successfully using artificial intelligence and machine-learning innovations to drive their strategies and relying on data delivery to do so. Parquet is a new data storage format used by ATTOM. Parquet uses compressed data files that speed up queries, reduce storage costs, and power-up processing of large data sets. Here’s a look at Parquet’s unique design and why it is tailor-made for real estate and property data analytics Parquet’s Unique Data Storage Format Parquet, ATTOM’s most recent data storage and delivery format, has a structural design reminiscent of an old architectural concept. “Build up instead of out” is a way to build structures using fewer resources. Parquet follows that design …

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, total nonfarm payroll employment increased by 177k in April, 2025 with the unemployment rate coming in at 4.2% – about the same as March.  In addition, the report says employment continued to trend up in health care, transportation and warehousing, financial activities, and social assistance.  Once again, employment with the government saw big declines. BLS.gov Click here to read the full report at the Bureau of Labor Statistics.   The post April Unemployment Rate the Same as March appeared first on Real Estate Investing Today.

Pros and cons of Wells Fargo Wells Fargo Pros: Extensive branch network with over 4,000 locations nationwide Transparent online display of mortgage rates Considers non-traditional credit references during the application process Offers low-down payment options to assist lower-income borrowers Special discounts and grants for eligible jumbo and first-time buyers Wells Fargo Cons: Has scaled back its mortgage offerings to focus on select borrower groups Received below-average customer satisfaction scores in recent studies Faced regulatory actions and negative customer reviews in the past Not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and holds a low rating. Average origination fees are higher than the national average. Wells Fargo mortgage rates Wells Fargo interest rates in 2025 tend to be competitive and often fall below the national average. While advertised sample rates are available online, personalized rates depend on your credit history, loan type, and down payment. Loan Type Average Interest Rate Conventional 30-Year …

Trends in historical mortgage rates After years of rising home prices and elevated mortgage rates, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of cautious optimism—not necessarily a turning point, but perhaps a step toward more stable ground. The big question now: Will rates come down meaningfully, or are we in for a longer period of high borrowing costs? While mortgage rates have edged down slightly since the start of the year—by about 15 basis points—analysts expect only gradual movement in the months ahead. With the Federal Reserve holding rates steady and remaining cautious about inflation, any future cuts are likely to be measured. For now, buyers and homeowners are watching closely, hoping for affordability gains, but preparing for a slower pace of change. But here’s what many overlook: The average rate is just that—an average. If you have strong credit and a solid financial profile, your personal mortgage rate …

2025’s top lenders for home buyers Which is the best mortgage lender? That depends on your credit score, down payment, and how much home you can afford. Still, the best mortgage lenders all offer low interest rates, reasonable lender fees, and flexible loan options for a range of borrowers. We used the latest federal HMDA data—the most reliable source on mortgage loans—to spotlight 10 lenders known for competitive mortgage rates and a simple, straightforward home-buying process. Choose your best mortgage lender. Start here Editor’s note: The Mortgage Reports may be compensated by some of these lenders if you choose to work with them. However, that does not affect our rankings. In this article (Skip to…) 10 best mortgage lenders in 2025 Lender Mortgage Reports Rating Credit Score (FHA Loan) Credit Score (Conventional Loan) Avg. Interest Rate Avg. Origination Fee Veterans United* 5.0 580 620 6.40 $1,991 NBKC 5.0 620 620 …

Pros and cons of Paramount Bank Pros: Offers a wide variety of loan products, including FHA 203(k) renovation loans. Provides lower-than-average origination fees. Waives the $1,095 origination fee for VA loans. Underwrites mortgage loans in all 50 states. Provides personalized service with dedicated loan officers guiding borrowers through the process. Cons: Mortgage rates can be higher than those of other lenders. Requires a minimum credit score of 680 for a conventional loan with 3% down, which is stricter than many competitors. Lacks a fully digital mortgage application process; borrowers must interact with loan officers directly. Does not display current mortgage rates on its website. Customer reviews are mixed, with some reports of unresponsiveness and communication issues. Paramount Bank mortgage rates In 2025, Paramount Bank’s mortgage rates can be slightly higher than average, which can increase the total cost of your loan over time. Although the bank doesn’t publish its interest …

Pros and cons of Navy Federal Credit Union Navy Federal Pros No-down-payment options with no private mortgage insurance for eligible military and civilian members 24/7 customer support Offers both home equity loans and lines of credit If NFCU can’t match a competitor’s rate, you may receive $1,000 Lets you relock your rate twice, which adds flexibility if rates shift Navy Federal Cons Must become a Navy Federal member before starting a mortgage application Doesn’t offer FHA, USDA, construction, or renovation loans Some borrowers report long hold times when calling customer service. The preapproval and application process isn’t clearly explained online. Membership is limited to military families, veterans, and DoD-affiliated individuals. Navy Federal Credit Union mortgage rates Navy Federal Credit Union interest rates are often competitive with, or better than, other major lenders, especially for qualified military borrowers. While rates can vary based on your financial profile, NFCU’s low rates and …

Pros and cons of Citi Mortgage Citi Mortgage Pros: Offers low down payment options, including 3% for conventional loans and no down payment for VA loans. Provides closing cost assistance of up to $7,500 for qualifying borrowers. Existing Citi customers can get interest rate discounts and a $500 closing cost credit. HomeRun Mortgage allows 3% down with no private mortgage insurance. Loans are available in all 50 states. Citi Mortgage Cons: Doesn’t offer USDA loans, which may be a dealbreaker for rural buyers. Requires a 620 credit score for VA loans, higher than some competitors. Trustpilot rating is just 1.2 out of 5 stars. You’ll need to contact a loan officer for personalized rate quotes online. Cit Mortgage Interest Rates Citi Mortgage interest rates in 2025 are generally competitive with the national average and may be especially appealing for borrowers with strong credit or an existing relationship with Citi. While …