app Archives - Page 38 of 463 - Hanover Mortgages

Apache is functioning normally

April 20, 2024 by Brett Tams

Editor’s Note: Options are not suitable for all investors. Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Please see the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.

Forex options, also called currency options, are contracts that give the purchaser the option to buy foreign currency from the exchange at a specific price on or before a specific date.

Like stock options, there are two different types of forex options: A call option gives the holder the right to buy currency at a specified price (the strike price), while the holder of a put option has the right to sell a currency at a predetermined price.

Those investing in foreign countries may use forex options as a way to hedge against unfavorable fluctuations of foreign currencies or to speculate on volatility.

What Is Forex Options Trading?

Like options in the stock market, currency options are a derivative instrument. In this case, the underlying asset is a foreign currency pair. Currencies (also known as FX or forex) are generally traded in pairs. One major currency pair, for example, is EUR/USD, which indicates the value of the euro against the U.S. dollar.

Foreign currency options are a way to invest in foreign currency markets without trading in the actual currencies themselves.
💡 Quick Tip: Before opening an investment account, know your investment objectives, time horizon, and risk tolerance. These fundamentals will help keep your strategy on track and with the aim of meeting your goals.

How Forex Options Trading Works

If you understand how to trade options in the stock market, currency options work in a similar manner. Buying a currency call option gives you the right (but not the obligation) to purchase a particular foreign currency at a specified price (the strike price) at any time before its expiration date.

A currency put option works in a similar way, except that the buyer has the right (but not the obligation) to sell a currency at a given price before the expiration of the option.

You can also purchase combinations of both put and call options at different strike prices and/or different expiration dates, depending on how you think the market will move. You can always close out your position before the options expire. Owning options gives you exposure to movements in the exchange rate without having to actually purchase the currency.

Types of Forex Options Available

The most basic currency options come in two types: so-called ‘vanilla’ calls and puts.

Vanilla Call and Put Options

A forex call option gives the holder the right (but not the obligation) to purchase a given currency at a specific price, any time on or before the option’s expiration date. You would generally buy a forex call option if you have a bullish outlook on a particular currency.

A forex put option works in the opposite manner. If you hold a put option, you have the right (but not the obligation) to sell a specific currency at a particular price before the options expire.

Purchasing a put option is something that you would do if you have a bearish outlook on the underlying currency.

SPOT Options

Another type of currency option is single payment options trading (SPOT). With a SPOT option, an investor and broker can set more detailed conditions for the option to pay out. These conditions are either met, or not. Because there are only two possible outcomes upon the option expiring, these options are sometimes called binary currency options.

Example of Trading Forex Options

If an investor expects the value of a currency will fall, they may choose to buy a put option to earn the right (but not the obligation) to sell the currency in question at a predetermined price during a set timeframe.

For example, if a U.S. investor expects the euro will fall in value against the U.S. dollar, they may buy a EUR/USD put option. Essentially, the option can help the option holder protect themselves against depreciation of a given currency.
💡 Quick Tip: Options can be a cost-efficient way to place certain trades, because you typically purchase options contracts, not the underlying security. That said, options trading can be risky, and best done by those who are not entirely new to investing.

Benefits and Risks of Forex Options Trading

Here are some of the pros and cons of trading forex options:

Benefits

Using forex options can be a cost effective way to potentially help hedge an investors’ portfolio against currency risk. For example, an investor who owns foreign stocks may consider investing in local currencies via options to reduce currency risk. Investors may want to weigh the option’s premium, as well as risk against possible outcomes.

Risks

Like any investment, trading currency options comes with a set of risks. Options are complex, high-risk instruments that require investors to understand how they work.

Currency values may fluctuate based on macroeconomic events, economic data, or political events. This means that FX options investors must bear in mind the risk profile of particular countries, as well as that of their own portfolio. Because currencies react to interest rates, trading currency options also bears interest rate risk. Traders who use leverage to potentially earn higher profits with less money, also risk losing more than their initial investment.

Benefits	Risks
Using forex options is a low-cost way to potentially hedge against adverse currency moves.	The price of currencies can be extremely volatile.
Using leverage, there is the potential for higher profits with less money invested.	Political risk as currency markets react to local governments’ policies.
You have many different ways to trade depending on your market outlook.	Options may be less liquid than the currencies themselves.

The Takeaway

Trading forex options can be a way for you to invest in the foreign currency market without actually owning the currency itself. You can use call options, put options, or a combination based on how you think the market will perform.

Qualified investors who are ready to try their hand at options trading, despite the risks involved, might consider checking out SoFi’s options trading platform. The platform’s user-friendly design allows investors to trade through the mobile app or web platform, and get important metrics like breakeven percentage, maximum profit/loss, and more with the click of a button.

Plus, SoFi offers educational resources — including a step-by-step in-app guide — to help you learn more about options trading. Trading options involves high-risk strategies, and should be undertaken by experienced investors.

For a limited time, opening and funding an Active Invest account gives you the opportunity to get up to $1,000 in the stock of your choice.

FAQ

What are some types of forex options?

The two kinds of forex options are call options and put options. A call option allows the holder to buy the specified currency at a given strike price, while a put option allows the holder to sell a given currency at a particular price. There are also SPOT, or binary currency options.

What is a forex call option?

A forex call option allows the holder to buy a specific currency at a specific price, on or before the expiration date.

How are forex options settled?

If you hold a currency option that is in the money at expiration, there are two possibilities for settlement. You can settle the option with cash or by a physical delivery of currency. If you are short an in-the-money option at expiration, you may need to deposit cash into your account to settle your account.

Photo credit: iStock/supersizer

SoFi Invest®
INVESTMENTS ARE NOT FDIC INSURED • ARE NOT BANK GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE
SoFi Invest encompasses two distinct companies, with various products and services offered to investors as described below:
Individual customer accounts may be subject to the terms applicable to one or more of these platforms.

1) Automated Investing and advisory services are provided by SoFi Wealth LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser (“SoFi Wealth“). Brokerage services are provided to SoFi Wealth LLC by SoFi Securities LLC.

2) Active Investing and brokerage services are provided by SoFi Securities LLC, Member FINRA (www.finra.org)/SIPC(www.sipc.org). Clearing and custody of all securities are provided by APEX Clearing Corporation.

For additional disclosures related to the SoFi Invest platforms described above please visit SoFi.com/legal.

Neither the Investment Advisor Representatives of SoFi Wealth, nor the Registered Representatives of SoFi Securities are compensated for the sale of any product or service sold through any SoFi Invest platform.

Options involve risks, including substantial risk of loss and the possibility an investor may lose the entire amount invested in a short period of time. Before an investor begins trading options they should familiarize themselves with the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options . Tax considerations with options transactions are unique, investors should consult with their tax advisor to understand the impact to their taxes.
Disclaimer: The projections or other information regarding the likelihood of various investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature, do not reflect actual investment results, and are not guarantees of future results.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Claw Promotion: Customer must fund their Active Invest account with at least $25 within 30 days of opening the account. Probability of customer receiving $1,000 is 0.028%. See full terms and conditions.

SOIN0124044

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 19, 2024 by Brett Tams

When you think about the cars wealthy Americans choose to drive (or choose to have someone drive for them), you probably imagine customized Bentleys, Rolls Royces, Ferraris, and Lamborghinis. And in some cases, you’d be right. Those luxury car brands — along with BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi — are popular with the rich and very rich in the U.S. and worldwide.

But they aren’t the car brands of choice for all high-income consumers. Some of the wealthiest people in the U.S. are driving vehicles from manufacturers that might surprise you, including Fords, Toyotas, and Hondas.

Read on for a look at the surprising car brands that rich Americans are buying and why.

What Is a Luxury or “Rich People” Car Brand?

Brands that are popular with wealthier car buyers typically have a reputation for superior performance, craftsmanship, high-quality materials (inside and out), and advanced technology. They also may have extra amenities to make them more comfortable and attractive, and to provide a better driving experience.

Luxury car brands also generally offer a higher level of customer perks, such as extended warranties, complementary maintenance, roadside assistance, and concierge services.

Of course, cars from more prestigious brands have higher price tags. New cars range from $40,000 to more than $100,000 — and over $500,000 for a higher-end brand like Rolls-Royce. Before you settle on any particular brand or model, you’ll want to determine how much you should spend on a car.
💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a money tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

Examples of Popular Luxury Car Brands

Several long-standing carmakers — and a few newer brands — are known to appeal to high-earning drivers:

• Acura A division of Honda, Acura made the first true Japanese luxury car sold in America. Like Genesis below, Acura is known for offering buyers more bang for their buck.

• Audi The German car manufacturer began gaining popularity stateside in the 1970s, and grabbed even more fans in 1980 when it unveiled the innovative Quattro, an all-wheel-drive sport coupe.

• BMW Another German company, BMW sold 362,244 vehicles in 2023, setting a new annual record for the brand in the U.S. BMW is the best-selling luxury auto worldwide.

• Cadillac Cadillac is America’s most prestigious domestic luxury automaker. Owned by General Motors, the brand has long been a favorite of older drivers. Models that appeal to younger buyers include its Escalade SUV and CTS sport sedan.

• Genesis Genesis is a newer car brand (launched in 2009) that built its reputation by offering luxury at a competitive price. Its parent company is the Korean automaker Hyundai.

• Land Rover The Land Rover brand, which began in England but now is owned by the Indian automaker Tata Motors, sells only SUVs. Its iconic Range Rover debuted in America in 1989.

• Lexus Owned by the Japanese automaker Toyota, the carmaker was named the most reliable of all car brands in 2023 and 2024 by J.D. Power Associates. Lexus is known for its upscale designs, comfortable cabins, and a smooth, quiet ride.

• Mercedes-Benz The German company, which has been making cars for more than 100 years, is known for its loyal fan base, attention to detail, and focus on customer service and comfort.

• Tesla Tesla Motors is an American car brand that makes vehicles that run on electricity.

What Car Brands Are Rich Americans Choosing?

Luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus are among the most popular with wealthy American car shoppers who are looking for reliability, prestige, extra amenities, comfort, and top customer service. And Teslas, which range in price from about $43,000 to well over $100,000, remain among the top-selling electric vehicles in the U.S.

But the line between luxury and mainstream brands is blurring, according to the car-shopping website Edmunds. Carmakers like Ford, Volkswagen, and Mazda are adding more upgraded models to their lineups, while high-end makers are offering smaller and more affordable cars.

And then there’s a much-publicized report from Experian Automotive, which found more than 60% of Americans who earn $250,000 or more aren’t sticking strictly to luxury brands. When Experian crunched the numbers in their huge database to see what wealthier folks choose to drive, it turned out there were three Honda models, a Toyota, and a Volkswagen on their Top 10 list.

Rich and famous car buyers also tend to like their pickup trucks. And though the Tesla Cybertruck is the new celeb must-have, you might also see photos of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson or Lady Gaga driving their Ford F150s, Sean Penn gassing up his Nissan Titan, or Ben Affleck in his Dodge Ram 2500.

Recommended: Car Value vs Truck Value

Pros and Cons of Luxury Car Brands

There are many reasons why people long to drive a luxury car — from the prestige to the performance to the high-end amenities and potential add-ons. But there are pros and cons to buying the kind of cars rich people often own:

Pros

• High-end brands are generally known for their reliability and advanced technology.

• Because luxury cars can quickly depreciate in value, used models can be found at bargain prices — especially if you’re buying a high-mileage car.

• Luxury car brands often offer a more comprehensive warranty and other customer perks.

Cons

• The cost of a high-end car can get in the way of important financial goals or keep you from enjoying things you care about, like good food and wine.

• Luxury models tend to depreciate in value much faster than mainstream cars.

• A luxury car can cost more to insure, and when the warranty runs out, it will likely cost more to repair.

Recommended: Should I Buy a New or Used Car?

Popular Alternatives to Rich Car Brands

While you’re saving up for a car, and before deciding which car brand you hope to purchase, take time to prioritize what you want from your ride. You may find you can get what you’re looking for without paying luxury prices. For example…

• Safety First According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, 2024’s safest cars include models from Kia, Honda, Mazda, Toyota, Nissan, and Subaru.

• Luxe Interior U.S. News & World Report named Volvo, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, GMC, Kia, Jeep, and Honda among the car brands with the nicest interiors in 2023.

• Designer Chassis The Toyota Prius, Honda Accord, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Kia Soul and EV6, Jeep Wrangler, Mazda 3, and Ram 1500 all made U.S. News & World Report’s list of the best looking cars of 2023.

• Most Reliable When Consumer Reports road-tested and ranked 34 car brands this year, the top 10 included Subaru (#2), Honda (#4), Mini (#6), Kia (#7), Mazda (#8), Toyota (#9), and Hyundai (#10).

• Biggest Bang for Your Buck Honda and Kia had the most models on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the “2024 Best Cars for the Money.”

💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Tips for Choosing a Car Brand

If you’re set on buying a luxury car, or if you’re still trying to decide which brand or model is right for you, here are a few things to consider:

• Does the luxury car brand you’re looking at offer something you can’t get from a mainstream carmaker? It can help to test-drive cars from a few different brands to compare the features that are most important to you. You might end up confirming your decision to go with the luxury brand. Or you may find a mainstream model that offers high-end comfort and performance but at a more competitive price.

• Do you plan to hold onto the car for a while, or will you sell it in a few years? Some luxury brands and models tend to lose value more quickly than others. (Here’s how to spot a good car-value estimate.) So you may want to research your top picks before you sign on the dealer’s dotted line and drive your new car off the lot.

• Could you be satisfied with a used car from your favorite luxury brand? Because luxury brands tend to depreciate faster, you may be able to find a used model that’s much more affordable than buying new.

• Can you afford it? Before you fall in love with that pricey BMW or Benz, you may want to take a look at another “b” word: your budget. Using a free budget app can help you figure out how much you can spend on your down payment, monthly car payment, and auto insurance costs, and if those costs will mesh with your other expenses and financial goals.

The Takeaway

Purchasing a luxury car is mostly an emotional decision: You buy one because you want it, not because you need it to get around.

If you’re rich, and you can afford to pay for the perks and prestige of an upscale brand, you may not give the cost a second thought. But even some wealthier car buyers are choosing mainstream brands, perhaps because they’ve found a model they want or they don’t care about the extras or the label.

How can SoFi help? Just as with any major purchase, it’s a good idea to do some research before you buy your next car. SoFi Relay can help you track your spending, monitor your credit, build a budget, and more. Once you run the numbers and know where you stand, you can feel more confident about your purchase, no matter what car you decide to buy.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

Which car brand is driven most by millionaires?

Though wealthy consumers are known for buying luxury car brands like Rolls-Royce, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar, or Porsche, you might also find them driving mainstream brands such as Honda, Toyota, and Ford.

What is the most common car for rich people?

BMW is the best-selling luxury carmaker in the world.

What percentage of millionaires choose to buy used cars rather than new cars?

In their 2010 book The Millionaire Next Door, authors Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko state that nearly 37% of the millionaires they surveyed reported buying used cars. But in some cases, a millionaire’s “used car” may be one of several vehicles the driver owns, or even part of a collection of classic or vintage autos.

Photo credit: iStock/mevans

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL0324013

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 19, 2024 by Brett Tams

MSR Execution, VOI, Post-Closing Audit, Client Acquisition Tools; May Training and Events

This website requires Javascrip to run properly.

MSR Execution, VOI, Post-Closing Audit, Client Acquisition Tools; May Training and Events

By:
Rob Chrisman

Thu, Apr 18 2024, 11:12 AM

What loan officer hasn’t had a memorable co-signing experience? Some more so than others. Along those lines, if you head to Disneyland or Disneyworld, and find bone chips or ashes on the floor of your favorite ride, it is probably not an accident. Nor is eking out a gain, or at least breaking even, in residential lending an accident. At the Great River Conference in Memphis, much of the information being presented is about how to do things more efficiently. And for good reason, as the MBA’s calculations for IMBs and mortgage subsidiaries of chartered banks last showed that total loan production expenses (commissions, compensation, occupancy, equipment, and other production expenses and corporate allocations) increased to $12,485 per loan in the fourth quarter. On the income side of things, borrowers who obtained adjustable-rate mortgage loans (ARMs, for lack of a better acronym) 3 or 5 or 7 years ago have popped up on LO screens for refinances, and you can bet that the companies who own that servicing are all over those borrowers “like hounds on a meat wagon.” (Found here, this week’s podcasts are sponsored by Optimal Blue. OB’s smart solutions automate critical functions like pricing, hedging, trading, and social media. More originators and investors rely upon Optimal Blue’s integrated solutions, data, and connections to support their unique business strategies, no matter how complex. Hear an interview with Optimal Blue’s Mike Vough on refining margin management to improve loan profitability and reduce risk.)

Lender and Broker Products, Software, and Services

For many non-QM lenders, real estate investors make up nearly half of their pipeline. Despite stubbornly high interest rates and low inventory, these borrowers continue to transact in this market, opening up an opportunity for lenders to capture this business. However, capturing this business with traditional marketing and sales efforts is not easy. Unless you have Privy. With Privy, you can now automate real estate investor and borrower acquisition and retention. With just a click of a button, borrowers are able to engage with you at any stage of the transaction process, from just browsing to ready to transact. Let effective technology help drive your DSCR, asset depletion, and fix and flip loan volume. Contact Brad Bieber (803-730-5032) to learn more about Privy’s Enterprise Solutions.

A 30-minute meeting with Planet Home Lending’s Correspondent sales team at the MBA Secondary & Capital Markets Conference could be the catalyst for a year-round boost in your business. Join us in the Gotham III Ballroom at the InterContinental New York Times Square. Don’t wait: secure your spot now before they’re all booked! Get in touch with your Regional Sales Manager or SVP Correspondent Sales, Jim Loving (414-270-0027) to explore our continually refined product lineup spanning vanilla to niche products all tailored to your unique needs: Best effort, mandatory AOT, delegated, or non-delegated.

“Regional Credit Union Attributes Successful Audit Process to QC Ally Partnership! In a world where integrity is everything, QC Ally prides itself on building a foundation of trust with each client partner. Recently, we sat down with Bill James, Chief Risk Officer at Marine Credit Union, to discuss how QC Ally helped them achieve a formalized, unbiased pre-fund and post-close audit process with custom loan sampling. As Bill put it, ‘We’ve been very happy with QC Ally. We stacked QC Ally up against very strong competition, and they really won hands down. The service levels you provide and your own staff with very deep, rich experience are unmatched.’ Learn more here.”

As certain wines age, their tannins bind together in a process called polymerization, creating a smoother, rounder flavor that’s more desirable, and, often, more valuable, than when first vinted. Are your mortgage technology partners improving like fine wine? That’s been the experience of Lake Michigan Credit Union, which just shared new success metrics regarding its use of income and employment verification from Argyle. It’s been about a year since LMCU switched to Argyle for VOIE, and the credit union can now quantify its time and cost savings at a whopping 3 weeks and $100 per closed loan. Read the updated case study findings here.

Mortgage Capital Trading, the de facto leader in innovative mortgage capital markets technology, introduces a game-changing best execution technology for MSR retain and release decisions all in one platform. With this groundbreaking development, MCT’s Enhanced Best Execution (EBX) solution emerges as a real-time bridge between MCTlive! (live whole loan/SRP execution) and MSRlive! (loan level MSR valuation), revolutionizing the landscape of best execution strategies in the mortgage industry. MCT clients now have accurate insight into how loans are trading and what investors are paying along with the intrinsic servicing value to enhance the retained vs. released decisioning process. What was once a manual, time-consuming exercise is now completely automated with EBX, making all of the essential execution data elements accessible with the click of a button. Read the latest press release or join MCT’s upcoming webinar to learn more about their latest innovation.

Events and Training

A good place for longer term conference planning is to start is here, and click on “Conference List” for in-person events in the future. Yes, there’s plenty ahead in April, but I thought for travel planning purposes it would be to glance ahead to May as vendors and lenders take a critical look at travel & entertainment budgets.

National MI University’s May Webinars: Leading With Style with Andrew Oxley – May 7th at 2pm ET. Income Analysis for Conventional Loans with Marianne Collins – May 9th at 1pm ET.

How to Make Accountability Cool and KPIs Fun Again with Dr. Bruce Lund – May 14th at 2pm ET. Screen Savvy: Mastering Virtual Influence for Lenders with Julie Hansen – May 15th at 2pm ET. Understanding the Personalities of Your Clients and Partners with Rebecca Lorenz – May 16th at 1pm ET. Your Event Playbook to Network and Form Referral Partnerships with Kendra Lee – May 21st at 1pm ET.

Great things are happening around the 2024 Fair Lending Forum, April 29 – May 1 in Charlotte, NC! Asurity is thrilled to announce that Josh Stein, North Carolina Attorney General, will be joining us! He will share his perspectives on fair lending during a fireside chat with our Founder and CEO, Andy Sandler titled The Role of State Attorney Generals in Fair Lending Enforcement. Other prominent speakers are Bob Broeksmit, President and CEO of MBA; Lindsey Johnson, President and CEO of CBA: Grovetta Gardineer, Sr. Deputy Comptroller for Bank Supervision Policy, OCC; Ben Olson, Senior Associate Director for Consumer Protection & Supervision, FRB; Varda Hussain, Principal Deputy Chief for Fair Lending in the Civil Rights Division, Housing and Civil Enforcement Section, DOJ; and Frank Vespa-Papaleo, Principal Deputy Director of Fair Lending, CFPB. Register at www.fairlendingforum.com.

If you’re in Minnesota on May 1st, 10:00am – 12:00pm and a Loan Originator, are you interested in creating and building strong realtor relationships? If so, register and attend the “Mastering the Realtor Referral Relationship” presented by Steven Ross, Author of Doors Open When You Knock.

Join Northern Michigan Luncheon, Tuesday, May 2, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at Silver Spruce Brewing Company, to hear from a panel of VA Loan Experts and they dive into the specifics of this loan type, any changes that are coming on VA loans and much more. They’ll also be discussing the pending NAR settlement, and what changes that brings to VA loans, sales, and associated realtor fees.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry peers, gain valuable insights, and elevate your mortgage business. Attend the MMBBA Annual Conference on Thursday, May 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Queenstown.

The Maryland Mortgage Bankers and Brokers Association Annual Conference is scheduled for Thursday, May 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the picturesque setting of Queenstown, MD. Featuring speaker, Edward Seiler, PhD, Executive Director of the Research Institute for Housing America and Associate VP of Housing Economics at the Mortgage Bankers Association. Edward will provide invaluable insights into the housing market and economic trends.

This year’s OMBA Annual Convention will delve deep into the dynamics of the mortgage industry and explore the current market trends. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just stepping into the mortgage world, this event on Monday, May 6 – Tuesday, May 7 promises valuable insights to navigate the industry’s landscape.

The AEI Housing Center will host five convenings in the week of May 6 in Denver, Colorado; San Francisco, California; Los Angeles, California; Orange County, California; and San Diego, California. These convenings will share insights on using light-touch density (LTD), also known as middle housing, to craft solutions to America’s growing housing supply crisis. Registration is free. Los Angeles is the only location that will offer a livestream.

Register for NALHFA Annual Conference 2024, May 1-4 in Las Vegas. Experience education and connection at NALHFA 2024 with an Affordable Housing Bus Tour, Women in Finance Luncheon & Roundtable, Speaker Sessions, and Networking Opportunities.

Register for the Maryland Mortgage Bankers and Brokers Association Annual Conference, scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the picturesque setting of Queenstown. This year’s conference will delve deep into the dynamics of the mortgage industry and explore the current market trends. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just stepping into the mortgage world, this event promises valuable insights to navigate the industry’s landscape.

In Birmingham, the MBA of Alabama will host its 38th Annual Convention on May 7 & 8.

Registration is open for ACUMA’s FOCALpoint workshops – Join ACUMA in Nashville May 9-10 or Denver June 11-12! Same amazing topics and content in each location – just pick the best city for you! The two-day subject-intensive workshops take deep dives into critical issues affecting the credit union mortgage lending industry. Sign up today! Register here for ACUMA workshops.

The MBA Georgia (MBAG) Conference is coming on May 12-15 at the One Ocean Resort, 1 Ocean Blvd, Atlantic Beach, Florida! For registration visit here.

The Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) Servicing Office in St. Louis, MO announced free, in-person training to lending partners, May 13-17 at the Charles F. Prevedel Federal Building. The training will offer multiple sessions to provide technical training on Loss Claims, Loss Mitigation, and Lender Reporting. USDA will not charge a registration fee. Attendees are responsible for all travel costs. USDA will not be blocking hotel rooms. Attendees may search for hotel accommodations near the training facility located at 9700 Page Ave, St. Louis MO 63132.

Capital Markets

A day after Fed Chair Powell threw cold water on expectations for rate cuts this year by admitting progress against inflation has stalled, Treasury and mortgage security prices rallied yesterday, dropping rates some, aided by excellent demand at a $13 billion 20-year Treasury bond reopening. Remember, even “a dead cat bounces.” There is some chatter out there that Fed Chair Powell’s tonal pivot last year is partly to blame for the lack of recent progress against inflation. Futures are now pricing in a maximum of two 25-basis point rate hikes in 2024, a far cry from the nearly 150-basis points of easing that fed fund futures had anticipated at the beginning of the year.

There was no top-tier data of note yesterday, but the Fed did release its April Beige Book, which noted that the economy has expanded at a slight pace since February. “Price increases were modest, on average,” it said. 10 of the 12 Federal Reserve Districts reported slight or modest growth while two reported no change. Consumer spending edged up slightly, though discretionary spending was pressured in some Districts. Tourism increased modestly but varied widely across the 12 Districts. Residential construction grew a little while nonresidential construction was flat. Employment rose at a slight pace while prices grew modestly, maintaining the pace seen in the last report.

We also learned that single-family home prices increased 7.4 percent from Q1 2023 to Q1 2024, up from the previous quarter’s revised annual growth rate of 6.6 percent, according to Fannie Mae’s latest Home Price Index reading. The national repeat-transaction home price index measures the average, quarterly price change for all single-family properties in the U.S., excluding condos. On a quarterly basis, home prices rose a seasonally adjusted 1.7 percent in Q1 2024, essentially the same as the growth in Q4 2023. On a non-seasonally adjusted basis, home prices also increased by 1.7 percent in Q1 2024.

Today’s economic calendar began with weekly jobless claims (212k, +1k from the prior week, continuing claims 1.812 million, so the labor market continues to do just fine) and Philadelphia Fed manufacturing (15.5, way up!). I did see an interesting report in Bloomberg yesterday that indicated cracks in a U.S. labor market that has been near historic strength for much of the past two years are forming. In five states (CA, CT, NV, NJ, WA), the ratio of jobless people per opening is one or more. Meanwhile Arizona and New York are nearing parity with a rate of 0.9, according to February data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Later today brings March existing home sales and leading indicators, Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey, and (once again) remarks from multiple Fed speakers. It’s also a busy day for the Treasury, which will both announce month-end supply consisting of $69 billion 2-year, $70 billion 5-year, $44 billion 7-year notes, and $32 billion 2-year FRNs and auction $23 billion 5-year TIPS. After the initial jobless claim’s news, we begin the day with Agency MBS prices marginally worse than Wednesday evening, the 10-year yielding 4.61 after closing yesterday at 4.59 percent, and the 2-year is at 4.95.

Employment

“TAYGO INC. presents an enticing new opportunity for a SaaS Sales Representative! This pivotal role is instrumental in propelling the success of TAYGOTM through selling our SaaS solutions to prospective clients. The key focus is comprehending the requirements and challenges of mortgage lenders (as well as mortgage brokers) and adeptly showcasing how our products, WEB-GOTM and RIN-GOTM, can optimize their operations and business performance. You must have a strong understanding of CRM products, their features, and the mortgage industry. You must effectively engage with prospects to understand their needs. You must also carefully monitor existing clients’ activities to identify upsell opportunities. You must have exceptional communication skills for online demos and meetings, cold or warm calls and emails. Your expertise, patience, and ability to build and maintain strong customer relationships will be vital in achieving our sales goals and ensuring customer satisfaction. Please send your resume to us.”

“Citizens has a proven track record of successfully navigating challenging market conditions while our capital, liquidity and funding positions remain strong. Retail loan officers need a diverse product mix, reliable operations, and seasoned leadership to rely on to be able to win. With great pay and generous benefits, along with strong digital tools to help you get the job done, Citizens is looking for talented loan officers in the Northeast, MidAtlantic, Midwest and Florida. Our deep product mix allows loan officers to serve many different customer needs, from affordable loan programs such as HomeReady to a best-in-class one-time close construction-to-permanent product, we have what you need to succeed. Citizens’ recent launch of Freddie Mac’s LPA enhances our vast product journey, driving a more personalized and customer-centric experience. Our specialty programs such as condo/co-op financing, along with an amazing Private Wealth discount value proposition for high net worth banking clients, ensure you have all the tools to win. We know a positive customer experience begins with loan origination but doesn’t end there. Recently the Citizens Mortgage Servicing Team received the prestigious ICE Innovation Award for Best Use of Data to Drive Automation, resulting in a 10 percent increase in our customer satisfaction scores. To learn more about how to join our team contact Carl Minott or visit here.”

Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 19, 2024 by Brett Tams

Series I Savings Bond rates are set to change on May 1, 2024, when the new rates will be announced. To give some perspective, for Series I Bonds issued from November 2023 through April 2024, the yield (composite rate) was 5.27% for six months after the issue date. So, is now a good time to buy I bonds?

Investors with a long-term savings outlook who are looking for a safe investment may want to consider investing in Series I Savings Bonds, commonly known as I Bonds. I Bonds are similar to most bonds in that they are essentially a loan to an entity (in this case the U.S. government), with the promise to return your money with interest. I Bonds are different in that they may offer some tax breaks as well. Here are nine important things to know before you invest in I Bonds.

9 Important Things to Know Before You Invest in I Bonds

1. I Bonds May Offer a Higher Rate, But Not a Fixed Rate

For those looking for low-risk investment returns, I Bonds may be a good option, but they are not traditional fixed-income securities. I Bonds are a type of savings bond offered by the U.S. Treasury and backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. They are unique in that they offer two types of interest payments: a fixed rate and a variable rate, which together provide the bond’s composite rate.

The fixed-rate portion is determined when the bond is purchased, and remains the same for the life of the bond. The variable rate gets adjusted twice a year (i.e., May and November), based on inflation rates. Investors may hold I Bonds for up to 30 years.

In May 2022, when inflation was high, I Bonds paid up to 9.62%. But as inflation cooled, the variable rate dropped. As mentioned, I Bonds issued from November 2023 through April 2024 have a composite rate of 5.27% for six months after the issue date, until the variable rate changes again.

💡 Quick Tip: Help your money earn more money! Opening a bank account online often gets you higher-than-average rates.

2. Your I Bond Principal Is Guaranteed

Because I Bonds are backed by the U.S. government they have a low risk of default and offer tax-advantaged interest income. Furthermore, the principal is guaranteed. This means (unlike traditional, non-government bonds) that the redemption value will never decrease. This is one of the advantages of savings bonds as a whole. As a result, I Bonds are considered low-risk investments.

3. I Bonds Offer Some Tax Breaks

Tax-efficient investors may want to consider certain I Bond features. Because I Bonds are exempt from municipal or state taxes, this can be a boon for some investors. That said, while federal taxes usually apply, they could be deferred until the bond is ultimately sold or matures; whichever happens first.

Additionally, I Bond investors may use the interest payments for qualified higher education expenses, and receive a 100% deduction (this is called the education exclusion). Some restrictions apply, including:

• You must cash out your I Bonds the year that you want to claim the education exclusion.

• You must use the interest paid to cover qualified higher education expenses for you, your spouse, or your dependent children the same year.

• You cannot be married, filing separately.

4. I Bonds Are Similar to E Bonds & EE Bonds

Investors who are familiar with the Series E Bond may also find I Bonds appealing. While Series E Bonds are no longer available from the Treasury, they can still be purchased from other investors who currently hold them. Historically, Series E bonds were also known as defense or war bonds.

Series E bonds were replaced by Series EE bonds (aka “Patriot Bonds”) in 1980. Today, like Series I Bonds, investors can buy EE Savings Bonds from TreasuryDirect .

An interesting feature of Series EE Savings Bonds is that, over a 20-year period, these bonds are guaranteed to double in value. And should the interest not be enough to double the value, the U.S. Treasury will top it up, giving the bond an effective interest rate of 3.5% per year during that period.

While I Bonds don’t offer the same guarantee, your principal is guaranteed and the bonds are designed to keep pace with inflation.

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.60% APY on your cash!

5. I Bonds Are Easy to Purchase

Investors can purchase electronic I Bonds online through TreasuryDirect in denominations over $25. The maximum amount of electronic I Bonds someone can purchase is $10,000 per calendar year.

In paper format, investors may use their tax refund to purchase up to $5,000 a year.

6. I Bonds Are a Long-Term Investment

In general, the primary risks in buying bonds revolve around redemption. What if you need your money before maturity?

I Bonds are generally a long-term investment. To start with, investors must understand that they have their money locked up for one year. After that, investors who redeem their I Bonds before they’ve held the bond for five years will forfeit the last three months of interest. (You can redeem an I Bond after five years with no penalty.)

As a result, those looking for a shorter-term investment may want to consider investing in Treasury bills.

💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.

7. Other Investments Might Offer Better Returns

One possible advantage of investing in stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs is that investors could potentially make a profit if the stock or fund does well. For instance, historically, stocks have been shown to be one of the best ways to build wealth over time. However, there is also risk involved, and you could lose money if the investment performs poorly.

TIPS, or Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, are also a type of government bond designed to protect investors from inflation. The principal amount of a TIPS bond will increase with inflation, while the interest payments remain fixed. I Bonds are similar to TIPS but offer additional protection against deflation.

8. It’s Hard to Predict an I Bond’s Return Over Time

To maximize your return on investment when purchasing I Bonds, it is essential to understand the differences between the two interest rate components of the bond, and how they can play out over time.

I Bonds offer a fixed interest rate, which remains the same for the life of the bond, and the inflation-protection component, which adjusts with changes in inflation rates twice per year.

So if you buy an I Bond, the composite rate would be the same for the first six months after the issue date. After that, your rate would adjust with the current inflation rate. If inflation goes up, so would the rate of return. If inflation goes down, the bond’s inflation rate would likewise decrease.

And if you hold onto your I Bond for 10, 20, or 30 years, you would likely see some years with higher inflation rates and some years with lower inflation rates.

9. You Must Meet Certain Criteria to Buy an I Bond

To be eligible to buy I Bonds you must be:

• A United States citizen, no matter where you live,

• A United States resident, or

• A civilian employee of the United States, no matter where you live.

Also, investors can only purchase I Bonds with U.S. funds. You cannot buy them with foreign currency.

The Takeaway

If you’re looking for a generally safe and reliable investment option, I Bonds may be worth considering. They offer tax breaks and other benefits that can make them a low- risk choice for your long-term savings goals. That said, because I Bonds come with a composite rate of return, it’s hard to predict how much your money will actually earn over time.

With I Bonds, your principal is guaranteed. If you buy a $1,000 I Bond, no matter what happens, you will get your $1,000 back.

If you’re interested in savings vehicles, there are alternatives to government bonds, including savings accounts with a higher APY (annual percentage yield). By exploring your options, you can choose the best option — or options — for you.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

Better banking is here with SoFi, NerdWallet’s 2024 winner for Best Checking Account Overall. Enjoy up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.

Photo credit: iStock/Bilgehan Tuzcu

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi® Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. ©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

4.60% APY
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

SOBK-Q224-1837041

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 18, 2024 by Brett Tams

The average barber’s salary is $52,123 a year, according to the latest data from ZipRecruiter. But barber salaries can range from about $17,500 to more than $86,000.

How much money you can make as a barber may depend on several factors, including education, certifications, experience, and where you’re located. Here’s a look at what barbers do and how they get paid.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

What Are Barbers?

A barber’s main job is to cut and style hair, usually for male clients. Barbers also may trim or shave facial hair, fit hairpieces, and provide hair-coloring services.

To become a barber, you must obtain a license in the state where you plan to work. Licensing qualifications can vary, but you’ll likely have to meet a minimum age requirement, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have graduated from a state-licensed barber program. You may also have to pass a state licensing exam.

A barbershop often doubles as a social hub where men can go to swap stories and catch up on the latest news while they enjoy a little personal care. If mingling with clients all day isn’t your thing, you may want to check out jobs with less human interaction.
💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.

How Much Do Starting Barbers Make?

An entry-level salary for a barber can range from $8.41 to $41.35 or more an hour, according to ZipRecruiter. Brand-new barbers tend to earn the highest hourly wages in New Jersey, Wyoming, and Wisconsin.

Recommended: What Trade Jobs Make the Most Money?

What Salary Can a Barber Expect to Make?

Barber jobs in the U.S. can pay anywhere from $17,500 to $86,000 or more, according to ZipRecruiter data. How much you can expect to make may depend on several factors, including how many hours you work and how many clients you serve; if you live in a region with more competitive pay; and if you work on commission, rent a chair at a shop, or own your own barbershop.

Here’s a look at the average barber’s income by state.

State	Average Salary for a Barber
Alabama	$49,572
Alaska	$53,033
Arizona	$50,968
Arkansas	$40,073
California	$46,632
Colorado	$50,860
Connecticut	$47,890
Delaware	$48,177
Florida	$40,869
Georgia	$46,181
Hawaii	$51,460
Idaho	$44,515
Illinois	$46,962
Indiana	$52,044
Iowa	$47,980
Kansas	$44,493
Kentucky	$42,214
Louisiana	$44,134
Maine	$45,672
Maryland	$46,693
Massachusetts	$53,224
Michigan	$42,137
Minnesota	$50,551
Mississippi	$47,266
Missouri	$45,239
Montana	$50,200
Nebraska	$45,804
Nevada	$50,144
New Hampshire	$54,449
New Jersey	$53,861
New Mexico	$50,829
New York	$60,841
North Carolina	$43,866
North Dakota	$52,473
Ohio	$49,290
Oklahoma	$44,358
Oregon	$52,559
Pennsylvania	$55,714
Rhode Island	$48,681
South Carolina	$44,791
South Dakota	$49,593
Tennessee	$47,059
Texas	$44,130
Utah	$46,849
Vermont	$60,007
Virginia	$47,628
Washington	$53,744
West Virginia	$43,029
Wisconsin	$52,882
Wyoming	$53,101

Source: ZipRecruiter

Recommended: Highest Paying Jobs by State

Barber Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

A barber’s compensation is traditionally set up in one of two ways:

• Renting a chair or booth: Barbers who rent a chair at a barbershop pay the owner or franchise a fee for the space where they work, but they keep the rest of what they earn. This can give barbers more control over their work schedule and the services they choose to offer.

• Earning a commission: Barbers who work on commission are paid a percentage of what they earn (typically between 40% to 70%). Or they could receive a predetermined hourly wage or salary plus a bonus commission. New barbers may choose to work a few years on commission to gain knowledge of how the business works and build a clientele, and then switch to renting a chair.

In addition, barbers can earn tips, usually about 15% to 20% of the price of a haircut or other service provided. Online tools like a money tracker app can help you keep track of your spending and saving from month to month.

Pros and Cons of a Barber’s Salary

As with any job, there are pros and cons to working as a barber, including:

Pros

• Attending a barber school can take less time (usually a year or less) and is far less expensive than getting a college degree. Tuition is about $14,000 on average (not including books and supplies), but costs can range from about $4,000 to $25,000, depending on the program. Financial assistance may be available through federal or private student loans, grants, and scholarships.

• Job prospects for barbers are good. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for barbers is projected to grow by 7% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

• Popular barbers often can work the hours they choose while serving clients who appreciate their creativity — and reward them with their loyalty and generous tips. If you like the idea of becoming an entrepreneur, you may even decide to start your own business someday.

Cons

• It can take time to build a reputation and a reliable list of repeat customers. In the meantime, you may experience some income instability, and tips may vary from one client to the next. This could make budgeting and spending difficult at times.

• As a barber, you may not receive the same employee benefits that other careers generally offer, including health insurance, a 401(k) or similar retirement plan, paid sick leave, or vacation pay. You might have to work nights, weekends, or a fluctuating schedule that makes it hard to plan your social life. And you may have to pay for your own work tools.

• You might also want to consider how long your career as a barber might last. Though it can be a fulfilling job, the work can be hard on your neck, back, hands, and feet.
💡 Quick Tip: We love a good spreadsheet, but not everyone feels the same. An online budget planner can give you the same insight into your budgeting and spending at a glance, without the extra effort.

The Takeaway

Your income potential as a barber will likely depend on where you work and the loyalty of your clientele. If you’re a creative and skilled stylist who likes keeping up with the latest trends, and you have good social skills, being a barber could be a great career choice. It also can help to have some business skills, as you may face unique challenges when it comes to managing your income, tracking your cash flow, planning for retirement, and paying taxes.

FAQ

Can you make $100,000 a year as a barber?

Once you establish yourself and build a solid clientele, you may be able to earn six figures as a barber. Your success, though, will likely depend on how in demand you are, how willing you are to travel or work long hours, the clientele you cater to, and if you own your own shop.

Do people like being a barber?

Though barbering can be hard work, barbers on Payscale.com gave their job an average of 4.2 stars out of 5. If cutting hair and providing other personal care services is your passion — and you’d enjoy building a bond with your clients — you could find a career as a barber is right for you.

Is it hard to get hired as a barber?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for barbers should be solid for at least the next decade. If you get the proper training, become a licensed barber, and can demonstrate that you have the skills and demeanor for the job, it shouldn’t be too hard to find work.

Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SORL0124043

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 17, 2024 by Brett Tams

Valuation, Online App., Data Intelligence, UW Guideline Integration Tools; STRATMOR ICE Integration

This website requires Javascrip to run properly.

Valuation, Online App., Data Intelligence, UW Guideline Integration Tools; STRATMOR ICE Integration

By:
Rob Chrisman

Mon, Apr 15 2024, 11:28 AM

No one is getting any younger, not even Clint Eastwood. Time marches on, as does, apparently, the cost of mailing a letter. The post office wants to jack the price of a stamp to 73 cents from 68 cents which took effect in January. But everything is politics these days, and out comes, “The Trump donor whom Biden can’t fire is running the U.S. Postal Service directly into the ground, just what everyone warned about when he was confirmed during the pandemic. The latest price hikes at USPS are just another sign of the unfavorable leadership of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy.” We have nearly seven months more of election cr-p. How about some good ol’ legal stuff? Neither side in the recent UWM lawsuit is likely to care to hear Brian Levy’s perspectives about the legal theories and people involved in the case, but I suspect many of you will. Levy’s most recent Mortgage Musings is chock full of sideways glances in footnotes, Don Corleone’s ethics, and of course, RESPA, among other stuff. (Found here after 8:30AM ET, this week’s podcasts are sponsored by Optimal Blue. OB’s smart solutions automate critical functions like pricing, hedging, trading, and social media. More originators and investors rely upon Optimal Blue’s integrated solutions, data, and connections to support their unique business strategies, no matter how complex. Hear an interview with Canopy’s Josh Neumarker on current pain points for originators and communication between management and sales staffs.)

Lender and Broker Products, Software, and Services

A&D Mortgage introduces AIM – Artificial Intelligence in Mortgage, revolutionizing the mortgage industry with a platform that streamlines the lending process for brokers and borrowers alike. AIM enhances A&D’s existing portal with AI, advanced technology, a user-friendly interface, and stringent compliance protocols to set a new benchmark in loan originations. This innovative platform is designed to simplify mortgage processing, offering features like an intuitive interface for reduced processing times, comprehensive support for Non-QM and Conventional loans, direct Point of Sale integration for swift applications, and top-tier security and compliance measures safeguarding client data. AIM represents A&D Mortgage’s dedication to innovation and excellence, facilitating a smoother, more efficient lending experience from application to closure. As the industry shifts towards a tech-driven future, AIM leads with a solution that enhances both broker efficiency and client satisfaction. Explore AIM’s transformative impact on mortgage lending here. Step into the future of efficient, secure, and user-friendly mortgage processes.

“Take3tech.com is excited to announce our integration between TheRuleTool and Polly PPE. TheRuleTool supports thousands of Loan Officers who can now access agency/investor/bond/jumbo guidelines in Polly to ensure you are on target with guidelines. Are you a lender focused on building relationships with borrowers? Take3Tech has created LoanMAPS, a POS/LOS/CRM that includes upfront underwriting, digital validation and workflow that incorporates D1C, AIM, Collateral Underwriting, and portfolio guidelines. Easy for borrowers to use and empowers loan officers with knowledge that you use to impress! Easy to install and gives you the power of one database that hosts all your POS/LOS/CRM data. Training entry-level employees? Not a problem with our intuitive step-by-step instructions. You will have new employees processing and closing in a week! Learn more by visiting our website or registering today for an upcoming webinar with our CEO and Fannie Mae.”

In today’s fast-changing market, one thing has remained consistent: home price growth. With the rising prices, demand for HELOCs and home equity loans has also increased. Do you have the right tools in place to capitalize on today’s home equity lending opportunities? In this short video, Margie Ambrosio, SVP Information Systems Manager at George Mason Mortgage, shares her unique perspective on why home equity lending should be a “no-brainer” for today’s lenders and how Encompass® by ICE Mortgage Technology® makes it easy. Click here to watch the full video.

Do you know how much wallet share you hold in your agent referral partnerships? With MMI’s data intelligence platform, you can not only see who you’re working with but also how much of their business you’re getting. For a limited time, click here to request your complimentary agent wallet share report and get X-ray insight into where else your top RE agent or office partner is sending their deals. Armed with this competitive intelligence, you can pinpoint potential areas for growth and opportunity like this MMI user: “As a dedicated professional constantly seeking innovative solutions to enhance my business, discovering MMI was a game-changer. MMI has allowed me to proactively identify prospective new agents and immediately reach out to discuss something of value for their new listing. MMI provides the essential data backbone, delivering new listing information to my inbox for existing agent relationships, as well as the agents on my prospect list.”

Winning Agent Business: The lender’s guide to building a strong referral network, updated for 2024. In the aftermath of the NAR ruling, agents are more incentivized than ever to show their clients value. That means they’re actively looking to partner with top-tier lenders in their market. Want to take advantage and grow your referral business? Maxwell just updated its Winning Agent Business eBook with new tips straight from agents to help you better network to create a strong funnel of referral leads. Download your free copy to learn qualities agents value in their lending partners, networking dos and don’ts, ways to become a go-to lender, and more.

If Amazon were in the mortgage business, what would their online application look like? Would it look like yours? They wouldn’t tolerate borrowers getting frustrated with a bad mobile experience and neither should you. Check out LiteSpeed by LenderLogix and see why mortgage bankers are making the switch.

Originators continue to find a way to get ahead of the competition with 48-hour appraisals! Tired of slow appraisals costing you deals? Class Valuation is transforming the industry with its 48-hour purchase appraisal program. This groundbreaking solution is designed to cut appraisal turnaround times significantly, helping loan originators close faster and win more business. Class Valuation’s innovative technology and streamlined process has proven over and over to cut turn times dramatically with no loss in appraisal quality. Get the edge you need in today’s market. Learn more about the 48-hour appraisals.

STRATMOR, Customer Experience, and ICE

Did you know that STRATMOR Group’s Customer Experience Strategy program, MortgageCX, is now integrated with Encompass and available through ICE Marketplace? MortgageCX personalizes CX feedback and coaching tips for every LO, processor, and manager, leveraging STRATMOR’s industry expertise, peer benchmarking data, and the lender’s own customer feedback. Participating lenders are transforming their customer experience and igniting their revenue growth. Contact STRATMOR for more on the MortgageCX program and join those lenders already benefiting from this integration.

Upcoming Webinars and Training

You may-as-well learn something while waiting for business to pick up! A good place for longer term conference planning is to start is here, and click on “Conference List” for in-person events in the future.)

Looking for more in-depth commentary on weekly mortgage news? Register here for “Mortgage Matters: The Weekly Roundup” presented by Lenders One. Every Wednesday at 2:00 PM EST/11:00 AM PT join Robbie Chrisman and Justin Demola for a dive into a range of mortgage-related topics, including market trends, interest rate fluctuations, innovative mortgage products, and industry advancements.

When are Things Going to Get Better Already!?! Spokane Association for Mortgage Professionals invites you to join us as we have a conversation with RE Source on Wednesday, April 17th from 4:30pm-6:30pm at the Spokane Club 1002 W Riverside Ave, Spokane, WA. Topics will include Market Insights, Content Creation, Social Media and Winning in 24′. Click here to register. (Be sure to check out the RE Source latest videos: https://theresource.tv/.)

Thursday April 18th Rich Swerbinsky returns to the airwaves at 3PM ET, interviewing the CFPB’s Mark McArdle on what the big misconceptions about the CFPB are, and where its focus is currently.

FHA Appraisal Policies for Manufactured Homes in Greensboro, April 18th, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Eastern). This free, in-person training will provide an overview of FHA appraisal/appraiser requirements for manufactured homes as outlined in FHA’s Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1. This training will cover several topics including property acceptability criteria, minimum property standards/minimum property requirements (MPR/MPS), defective conditions, policy updates, inspections, well and septic requirements, underwriting the appraisal, and program types such as a new construction.

Join Angel Oak on Thursday, April 18th for a Non-QM Webinar on Short Term Rentals & DSCLR Loans. Discussion will include AirDNA, short term rentals and DSCR Loan program details. Plus, the top questions heard from their brokers.

IMLA is hosting a Builder Panel at its April Luncheon, Thursday, April 18 · 11:30am – 1pm MDT at the Riverside Hotel Aspen Room. Treasure Valley Builders Bobbie Jordan, Preside of Jordan Homes, Bud Compher, Jr., CEO of Neighborworks Boise, Cody Weight, President of Solitude Homes and Jenna England, President of Berkeley will share their perspectives on building trends, affordable housing, and how they are adapting to the everchanging market.

AmeriCatalyst explores the operational impact of climate change and its profound industry-wide implications for the US housing and finance market. AmeriCatalyst’s GOING TO EXTREMES: The Climate, Housing and Finance Summit is being held at the Gaylord National Harbor (in the Washington DC area) on April 18 and 19. Contact Toni Moss (512-461-6340) with questions.

Friday the 19th is the next episode of The Mortgage Collaborative’s Rundown covering current events in the mortgage market for 30-45 minutes starting at noon PT, 3PM ET, in “The Rundown”.

Join co-hosts, the National Association of Appraisers and Appraiser eLearning, at the 6th annual Appraiser’s Conference and Trade Show (ACTS). The next ACTS conference will be held April 20-23 at the DoubleTree in Colorado Springs hosted by the Colorado Real Estate Appraisers Association.

Interested in learning how retain/release MSR decisions can be included in your best execution strategy? Join MCT for a webinar on April 24th at 11:00 AM PT titled Complete Best Execution – Now Including Fully Integrated Retain/Release MSR Decisioning. In this webinar, MCT will review the current state of the MSR market and discuss more comprehensive retain vs. release strategies, in addition to our recently introduced fully integrated Enhanced Best Execution (EBX) solution. MCT’s Paul Yarbrough will then provide insights from a trader’s perspective regarding MSR best execution strategies at time of loan sale. He will also highlight MCT’s Rapid Commit technology and assignment of trade processes. This session will include a live demo of the EBX (MCTlive! and MSRlive!) integration, showcasing how EBX can effectively optimize your flow MSR trading process and decisions. Register for the webinar to join the session.

Join CoreLogic for an exclusive webinar on Wednesday, April 24, noon CT tailored for lenders to delve into the Valuation Modernization Initiative. Dive into the innovative redesign of forms and the cutting-edge UAD (Uniform Appraisal Dataset) initiative, poised to revolutionize the sector. Explore the significant effects that this initiative is exerting on the broader industry, encompassing alterations in Loan Origination Systems (LOS), effective management of appraisal fees, performance SLAs, and other aspects.

The Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) is offering free, in-person training to its lending partners. The training will offer one and half days of loan origination training and one day of loan servicing training, April 24th, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm in Glenn Allen, VA. The servicing agenda will focus on the methodology and processes of handling troubled loans in your USDA portfolio. USDA will cover the entire waterfall of loss mitigation options and the specific rules and processes of administration and provide an update on USDA programs portfolio review. It will be held at the Virgina Housing Center, 4224 Cox Rd., Glenn Allen, VA. This is an in-person event only and will not be streamed live.

“A never-before-seen economic environment calls for new ways to create stronger business growth. Register now for a MAXEX roundtable discussion Thursday, April 25 at 2 p.m. Eastern where we’ll breakdown how unyielding inflation, stubborn mortgage rates, an unpredictable Federal Reserve and a nearly two-year long yield curve inversion are affecting the mortgage world. The roundtable will feature MAXEX and special guests. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders about how they’re attacking the road ahead and where you can find growth while working against industry headwinds.”

Join MBA’s webinar, April 25th, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM ET, as they delve into the fundamentals and complexities of mortgage accounting. Anyone who desires to increase their knowledge of mortgage loan accounting will benefit from this session that is designed for business owners, executive management, accountants, and non-CPA accounting managers. Complete the full series, and you’ll have the information necessary to master mortgage accounting.

FHA New Applicants are invited to join a free virtual webinar, April 25, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM (Eastern) conducted by FHA’s Office of Lender Activities and Program Compliance, will focus on the Lender Electronic Assessment Portal (LEAP) as outlined in the Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1. Content includes a detailed overview of the FHA lender approval application process, eligibility requirements, and required documentation for the various types of mortgagees (lenders). Common application deficiencies will also be addressed and tips for submitting a successful application will be provided.

Capital Markets

The latest consumer price data drove last week’s market movement as traders attempt to predict when the Fed will begin to ease monetary policy. The Consumer Price Index increased 0.4 percent in March at both the headline and core levels, which was hotter than market expectations and led to an immediate sell-off in bonds. The question remains as to whether this is a bump in the road to 2 percent inflation or an inflection point signaling a reversal of course.

Meanwhile, farther up the food chain, producer prices rose 0.2 percent in March, their slowest pace over the last three months. The Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, the core PCE deflator, will not be released until April 26. Despite the belief that inflation will trend lower throughout the year, Fed officials clearly do not have confidence it is on a sustained path towards two percent at this time. As a result, the market has pushed the likelihood of the first rate cut from June to September.

This week’s economic calendar kicked off with a bang today with March retail sales (+.7 percent, the consumer is strong!) and April Empire State manufacturing. Later today brings the NAHB Housing Market Index for April, February business inventories, and remarks from a couple of Fed speakers. We begin the week with Agency MBS prices worse .250-.375, the 10-year yielding 4.61 after closing Friday at 4.50 percent, and the 2-year up at 4.96.

Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 17, 2024 by Brett Tams

The median annual salary for pediatricians is $198,420, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are many different paths a doctor can take when it comes to choosing their medical specialty. Doctors who enjoy helping children feel their best and live healthy lives will likely find a lot of fulfillment in their jobs.

To learn more about how much a pediatrician makes a year, keep reading.

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

What Are Pediatricians?

A pediatrician is a type of doctor who provides medical care to children ranging from infancy to adolescence. They specialize in diagnosing and treating injuries, developmental issues, and illnesses children commonly experience. From routine exams to issuing vaccines to providing medicine to sick children, pediatricians can help.

The path to becoming a pediatrician can be a long and expensive one. Typically, that means college, medical school, a residency, and possibly a fellowship. Medical school can easily cost $250,000 in tuition. It’s wise to consider this investment when pursuing a career as a pediatrician. Many doctors have a high amount of medical school debt when starting out.

Also, keep in mind that being a pediatrician involves interacting with children and their families all day. This may not therefore be the best job for introverts.
💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?

While pediatricians can eventually earn very competitive salaries, like any job, they tend to earn less when they are entry-level. The lowest 10% of earners in this role make just $75,670, which is significantly lower than the median annual salary for all physicians of $198,420.

What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?

On average, a pediatrician can make a salary that is considerably higher than the American average for all jobs. Where a pediatrician chooses to work can greatly impact how much a pediatrician earns. This is a quick glance at the annual mean wage for a variety of workplaces where a pediatrician may be employed:

• Offices of physicians: $203,690

• General medical and surgical hospitals: $180,790

• Outpatient care centers: $232,420

• Colleges, universities, and professional schools: $84,810

• Specialty (except psychiatric and substance abuse) hospitals: $201,100.

Another factor that also affects pediatrician earning potential is the state the doctor works in. This table below highlights how average pediatrician salaries vary by state, with typical pay arranged from highest to lowest by location.

In addition, it shares how much a pediatrician’s hourly pay vs, salary is.

What is the Average Pediatrician Salary by State for 2023

State	Annual Salary	Monthly Pay	Weekly Pay	Hourly Wage
Oregon	$222,171	$18,514	$4,272	$106.81
Alaska	$221,079	$18,423	$4,251	$106.29
North Dakota	$221,044	$18,420	$4,250	$106.27
Massachusetts	$218,405	$18,200	$4,200	$105.00
Hawaii	$216,375	$18,031	$4,161	$104.03
Washington	$211,404	$17,617	$4,065	$101.64
Nevada	$209,030	$17,419	$4,019	$100.50
South Dakota	$208,910	$17,409	$4,017	$100.44
Colorado	$206,290	$17,190	$3,967	$99.18
Rhode Island	$205,782	$17,148	$3,957	$98.93
New York	$196,083	$16,340	$3,770	$94.27
Delaware	$193,921	$16,160	$3,729	$93.23
Vermont	$191,477	$15,956	$3,682	$92.06
Virginia	$191,115	$15,926	$3,675	$91.88
Illinois	$191,057	$15,921	$3,674	$91.85
Maryland	$187,806	$15,650	$3,611	$90.29
Nebraska	$183,797	$15,316	$3,534	$88.36
Missouri	$182,659	$15,221	$3,512	$87.82
California	$182,152	$15,179	$3,502	$87.57
South Carolina	$181,082	$15,090	$3,482	$87.06
Pennsylvania	$179,627	$14,968	$3,454	$86.36
New Jersey	$179,258	$14,938	$3,447	$86.18
Oklahoma	$177,994	$14,832	$3,422	$85.57
Maine	$177,900	$14,825	$3,421	$85.53
Wisconsin	$177,526	$14,793	$3,413	$85.35
North Carolina	$177,345	$14,778	$3,410	$85.26
New Hampshire	$174,681	$14,556	$3,359	$83.98
Idaho	$174,250	$14,520	$3,350	$83.77
Texas	$173,077	$14,423	$3,328	$83.21
Kentucky	$172,518	$14,376	$3,317	$82.94
Wyoming	$171,910	$14,325	$3,305	$82.65
Minnesota	$171,467	$14,288	$3,297	$82.44
Michigan	$170,777	$14,231	$3,284	$82.10
New Mexico	$170,501	$14,208	$3,278	$81.97
Indiana	$169,638	$14,136	$3,262	$81.56
Ohio	$166,670	$13,889	$3,205	$80.13
Arizona	$166,130	$13,844	$3,194	$79.87
Connecticut	$165,286	$13,773	$3,178	$79.46
Mississippi	$164,126	$13,677	$3,156	$78.91
Iowa	$163,921	$13,660	$3,152	$78.81
Montana	$163,627	$13,635	$3,146	$78.67
Arkansas	$163,030	$13,585	$3,135	$78.38
Alabama	$161,584	$13,465	$3,107	$77.68
Utah	$159,236	$13,269	$3,062	$76.56
Tennessee	$159,121	$13,260	$3,060	$76.50
Kansas	$154,538	$12,878	$2,971	$74.30
Georgia	$150,529	$12,544	$2,894	$72.37
Louisiana	$149,706	$12,475	$2,878	$71.97
West Virginia	$138,728	$11,560	$2,667	$66.70
Florida	$133,219	$11,101	$2,561	$64.05

Source: ZipRecruiter

Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Alongside earning a $100,000 salary or more, most pediatricians also receive superior employee benefits. If a pediatrician runs their own practice, they will need to supply themselves and their employees with these benefits.

Those who are employed by employers like hospitals or medical groups can expect to gain access to benefits like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement accounts. They may also have unique benefits like continuing education allowances and malpractice insurance coverage.
💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Pediatrician Salary

The main advantage associated with competitive pay for pediatricians is that they are quite high. With a median salary of $198,420, pediatricians are greatly rewarded for their hard work.

However, they must pursue many years of higher education to earn that salary. Many young doctors struggle under the weight of their student loan payments. So, while this salary may seem high at first glance, much of it can go towards student loan debt initially.

It’s also worthwhile to consider work-life balance. Being a pediatrician and improving the health of children can be a very rewarding career, but it can also involve long, tiring hours and being on call for patients on nights and weekends. Medical problems and emergencies crop up all the time, so this is a factor to acknowledge.

Recommended: How Much House Can I Afford?

The Takeaway

Pediatricians can earn very high pay while making a big difference in the lives of their patients and their families. They do have to commit to many years of schooling and education to become a pediatrician, but once they do, they can earn a great living.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a pediatrician?

Most pediatricians make $100,000 a year or more, especially after gaining a few years of work experience. The median annual salary for a pediatrician is $198,420.

Do people like being a pediatrician?

Pursuing a career in pediatric medicine is a major commitment and those who are passionate about this field and patient care are likely to really enjoy their work. However, this role requires many hours of patient interaction a day, so even if someone finds the work fascinating, it won’t be a good fit for them if they are antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?

The main challenge in getting hired as a pediatrician surrounds not having the right credentials. Potential pediatricians must pursue medical school and any required medical licenses in order to find a job in this field, which is no easy feat.

Photo credit: iStock/alvarez

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

SORL0124039

Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 15, 2024 by Brett Tams

As Indian summers invite us to stay indoors and enjoy our surroundings, homes become havens of warmth and holiday vibes. With the days getting longer and temperatures rising, it’s the perfect time to infuse your space with summer decor ideas. Whether you’re longing for a tropical getaway or a serene retreat, summer-inspired designs offer limitless opportunities to revitalise your home. Experiment with vibrant colour palettes and incorporate light, airy materials to capture the essence of the season. Whether you opt for subtle changes in one corner or a bold transformation of the entire room, embrace the spirit of summer and create a refreshing sanctuary within your home. (Also read: Summer interior design trends 2024: 7 tips for infusing coastal vibes into your home décor )

Embrace the essence of summer indoors with a refreshing home makeover(Unsplash)

7 trendy summer home decor ideas

Interior Designer Punam Kalra Creative Director of I’m the Centre for Applied Arts shared with HT Lifestyle seven summer decor ideas that will make your home feel cool and fresh.

Unlock exclusive access to the story of India’s general elections, only on the HT App. Download Now!

1. Set up an intimate indoor ambience

The brute of the summer sun calls for an escape—you can have that by creating your own bubble with singular, statement furniture pieces that tie the space together. Choose settees over sectional sofas, chandeliers over pendant lights, pedestal tables over side tables and closets over racks, to create a close-knit ball of comfort.

2. Go with nature-inspired mood boards

The home-bound times may take us away from nature—say otherwise by throwing hints of raw nature in the interior elements. Bring a tactile memory with rough cuts of the stones in the wall, veins of the live wood in the tables, grains of the ceramic in the accessories or a fresh whiff of organic dyes in the tapestries that reminisce the outdoor scenes.

3. Give life to the hushed colour palettes

The hushed, lighter tones can easily make the sun-bathed spaces look deserted—make them livelier with energized hues of neutral and pastel colours that keep up with the quietude of the season, without being overwhelming. Bring in a peach upholstered chaise, zest cocktail table, mint green console or an ice blue canvas to refresh the aesthetic with a mood unique to the colour.

4. Include a selection of breathable fabrics

The still summer air needs a space that it can breathe through—try stripping the space off the décor layers and keep things light. Get your hands on linen, cotton, chambray and more that are easy on everything from the upholstery to the drapery. You can keep things simple with solid sheer cotton or talk about exclusivity with dyed and block-printed patterns that are authentic and sustainable at the same time.

5. Get your hands on the handcrafted pieces

Handcrafted styles speak for the things that are both near and afar—something that is a local craft but seen only in a far-off summer retreat. Take a detour and bring them back to your space like a cocooning rattan armchair, basketed jute planters, caged bamboo pendants, looped hemp rugs and more that let you relive your holiday memories whilst cooling your space down with the restorative character of nature-based materials.

6. Make way for the vacay vibes

A regular home can be an ode to the vacation home when the elements make their way into the interior. While you can think big like setting up a cabana in your backyard—try to start small by adding a hammock to your deck or a patio furniture set to your porch. Recreate a nautical style statement with blue-white stripes in upholstery, shell studded embellishments in the tables or weather wood planks in the wall décor, to give something that you can indulge in, all day every day.

7. Don’t forget the fresh greens

An indoor ambience gets fresh both by look and feel, when the greens are a part of it. You can sound exotic with tropical ferns and florals or keep things simple and practical with peace lilies, spider plants, and English ivies, among others. You can also house succulents like aloe vera, jade, cactus and more that stand the heat and come out as aesthetic greens, ideal for low-maintenance contemporary homes.

Source: hindustantimes.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 15, 2024 by Brett Tams

Are you looking for ways to get paid to walk? Getting paid to walk is a side hustle with the benefits of getting daily exercise and even getting paid for it. There are tons of ways to get paid to walk including getting paid for steps, losing weight, and even picking up trash. I have…

Are you looking for ways to get paid to walk?

Getting paid to walk is a side hustle with the benefits of getting daily exercise and even getting paid for it. There are tons of ways to get paid to walk including getting paid for steps, losing weight, and even picking up trash.

I have personally been paid to walk, and it’s great!

How To Get Paid To Walk

Below are 19 ways to get paid to walk.

Recommended reading: 19 Ways To Get Paid To Workout

1. CashWalk

CashWalk is a free app that pays you to earn money just for running or walking outside or on a treadmill. You earn coins and can exchange them for gift cards to places like Amazon, Walmart, Apple, Starbucks, and more.

This pedometer app is designed to motivate you to achieve fitness goals and help build healthy exercise habits.

You won’t get rich with CashWalk, but it’s an easy way to make money by doing what you already do, which is walking.

You can sign up for CashWalk by clicking here. Also, you can get a free 100 points by using the referral code ESPU5.

2. Sweatcoin

Sweatcoin is a free app that helps motivate you to walk by rewarding your daily steps. This pedometer app only counts outdoor steps right from your phone (such as your iPhone or Android device), so if you’re a treadmill walker, those steps will not count in the app.

Once you accumulate enough coins, you can redeem them for products or donate to charity. The products that can be redeemed change regularly. You may see things such as Amazon credits, electronics, and other popular products. If you’re feeling generous, you can donate your earnings to charities like Save The Children, The African Wildlife Foundation, or Cancer Research.

3. Walk dogs

Rover is an app that connects you with pet owners who need help with pet sitting, dog walking, and drop-in visits. If you’re an animal lover, this is a great side hustle to try.

I was a Rover dog walker for several pet owners and it’s still one of my favorite side hustles to date. The app works on both Android and iOS devices.

How much money you earn on the Rover app varies on how many pets you’re walking, your experience, and what you set your rates at. Some pet sitters make $40,000 a year, while the top dog walkers in the field earn $100,000+. You can expect to earn between $15 and $25 per hour on Rover, with that rate being more depending on how many dogs you’re walking at one time.

Finding jobs is relatively easy because there are so many pet parents out there looking for a pet sitter or someone to walk their dog.

Click here to sign up for Rover.

Learn more at 7 Best Dog Walking Apps To Make Extra Money (another popular pet walking app that you can learn about is Wag!).

4. Get paid to pick up trash

A great way to help clean the environment, get exercise in, and get paid is by picking up trash. Many businesses want their property and parking lots to be clean so customers are shopping at a clean property.

Getting paid to pick up trash is a small business that you can start entirely on your own. Picking up trash can pay between $30-$50 an hour. There is a ton of trash to pick up in the world. Tools you will need include a broom, dustpan, and grabber tools.

You can learn more at Get Paid $30 – $50 Per Hour To Pick Up Trash.

5. Stepbet

Stepbet is a popular fitness app that pays you for walking. The app is user-friendly and even lets you connect your fitness tracker (such as your Fitbit, Google Fit, Samsung Health, or Apple Watch). Stepbet is a great way to stay motivated to complete your daily step goal and even get paid for doing this.

This is how the app works:

You choose a game to set your step goals
Bet a certain amount of money into the pot to join the game
If you meet the weekly step goal, you can split the pot with others who also completed their goals and get your bet back plus more.

6. HealthyWage

HealthyWage is a popular fitness app that pays you to lose weight. To get started, go to HealthyWage and enter how much weight you want to lose, how long you’ll have to complete the weight loss goal, and how much money you want to bet.

Let’s say I wanted to lose 30 pounds in 9 months or less and I bet $60 of my own money. The website shows my prize range would be between $588 and $1,116.

HealthyWage has weekly weigh-ins and support from other people who are also trying to lose weight. The purpose of HealthyWage is to motivate you to lose weight by using a financial incentive, which makes it more motivating to complete your weight loss goal.

7. DietBet

DietBet is a fun and unique app that makes fitness fun and motivating. DietBet works by you choosing a game/challenge to complete. For example, there are current weight loss challenges where you bet $40 and have to lose 10% of your body weight within 6 months to win the shared pot of money.

This is how it works:

You get started by choosing a challenge and betting money into the pot
Two days before the challenge begins, you must weigh in which involves taking two photos (one of you standing on the scale with lightweight clothing, and the second photo of the scale and weight)
The challenge will share how much weight you have to lose to win the pot of money at the end of the challenge.

8. Fit For Bucks

Fit For Bucks is an app that lets you earn rewards for being active. You can earn points by doing things like walking to the grocery store, hitting the gym, going for a hike, dancing, and more.

Rewards you can redeem include things like coffee, fitness classes, massages, haircuts, wine, and more. Using this app is a fantastic way to stay motivated to get more movement in while also getting rewarded for your hard work.

9. Charity Miles

Charity Miles is the app for you if you love giving back and being generous. Instead of giving rewards to you, the app lets you give your rewards to a charity of your choice. Every mile you walk earns a credit to be used as a donation to a charity.

One of my favorite charities, Save The Children, is on Charity Miles. So my daily walking that I already do helps me donate more money to my charity of choice.

10. Guided walking tours

If you’re an extrovert and have knowledge about your local town, you may want to become a walking tour guide. As a guided walking tour operator, you can create your own unique walking route and showcase special landmarks and sites to tourists. You must have in-depth knowledge of the area and provide excellent customer service.

I recommend researching what similar tours are charging to get an idea of what you should charge. You should also think about factors such as the duration of the tour, the experience you have, and any additional services you’ll include when deciding how much the walking tour will cost.

Having a website and/or social presence for your tour company is a great way to get new customers interested in your tours. Network with local hotels, travel websites, and tourism organizations to promote your tours. You may even want to offer a special discount or promotion to attract new customers.

11. Evidation

Evidation is an app that lets you earn points and rewards for actions like walking, sleeping, and more. Participating in this app helps contribute to research and new health findings that will benefit everyone.

For example, one of the current programs in the Evidation app gives you 300 points for joining a program focused on the flu. The app monitors your activity and can alert you when it sees a change that suggests you may be feeling under the weather.

You can connect all kinds of fitness electronics to the Evidation app, including but not limited to Fitbit, Garmin, Google Fit, and Dexcom.

12. MyWalgreens (Walgreens Balance Rewards)

MyWalgreens is a program run by Walgreens with the purpose of getting people to make healthier decisions.

You can earn points in the program by walking and tracking other fitness activities. You can even earn points for tracking your blood pressure, blood glucose, sleep, and other health markers.

13. Gigwalk

Gigwalk is an app that connects gig workers with quick tasks like going to a store, reviewing product displays, checking prices, availability of products, and conditions. You get to choose which gigs you choose and get to decide your schedule and how often you work.

Here’s how Gigwalk works:

First, you download the app on your phone.
Then, you look for gigs nearby.
Choose a gig that you like.
After you finish the job, you get paid.

Money is sent directly to your PayPal account and each gig pays differently. It typically can range anywhere from $3 to over $100 – the time to complete a gig can vary from 5 minutes to a few hours.

14. Runtopia

Runtopia pays you to get fit by providing a motivational incentive to get moving.

The app has benefits like letting you record activities with GPS, data analysis to improve your performance, connecting with friends, and getting rewarded for various activities.

15. PK Rewards

PK Rewards is an app that rewards you for tracking all kinds of workouts. Your workouts get converted into coins which can be redeemed for cool prizes from brands like Lululemon, Nike, Amazon, and more. You earn coins based on the effort you put in.

Workouts can include pretty much anything from going to the gym, cycling, dancing, walking, and more. You can set personal goals in the app, compete with friends, and track your progress all within the app. You can even see your effort over time as you use the app.

16. Instacart

Instacart is a platform that connects customers with Instacart Shoppers who grocery shop and deliver food to customers. This job requires a lot of walking and physical activity and allows you to control your schedule and how often you work.

Signing up to become an Instacart Shopper is straightforward. Download the Instacart Shopper app and apply as a Shopper. Once your application is accepted, you can use the app to find orders, pick an order you like, and go to the store and start grocery shopping for the customer. When you’re done grocery shopping, deliver the groceries to the customer.

You earn money with each delivery and the more you deliver, the more job opportunities you’ll have available. Giving great service to your customers can lead to better tips, so customer service is important.

You can click here to sign up to be an Instacart Shopper.

Learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?

17. DoorDash

Working for DoorDash is an active gig job that requires you to deliver restaurant meals to customers. This side hustle can require a lot of walking and physical activity depending on how you’re delivering food. You may decide to deliver food by car or by bike.

The benefits of working for DoorDash include choosing the hours you work and deciding where you want to work. The app is user-friendly and allows you to take orders, where to go, and how to get there. Each delivery earns between $2-$10, plus tips.

Please click here to sign up for DoorDash.

18. Distribute flyers

A side hustle that requires a lot of walking is getting paid to distribute flyers. To find jobs distributing flyers, check online job platforms like Indeed or Craigslist, and also search for jobs in newspapers, and community bulletin boards. Search for jobs using the keywords “flyer distribution”, or “leaflet distribution”.

You can also create a profile on gig platforms like TaskRabbit, Gigwalk, or Thumbtack and post or search for flyer distribution jobs. Make sure to check local events, trade shows, and festivals as these events always need promotional material to be distributed.

Before accepting any jobs, make sure to clarify pay rates and the schedule from the employer. This job is likely going to take a lot of daily steps and physical activity.

19. Mystery shopping

Mystery shopping is a tool companies use to learn ways to improve their customer experience. Mystery shoppers can get jobs in person, online, or on the phone. Jobs are different and may require you to buy something, sit down at a restaurant and eat, or even get your hair done in a salon. If you are required to buy something, make sure to keep your receipts as you will need them to complete your questionnaire.

My sister was a mystery shopper and I got to go with her on one of her gigs. We got to visit a restaurant for free as long as she gave her honest opinion after. Mystery shopping also involves going to stores such as Best Buy, salons, car dealerships, movie theaters, makeup counters, and more.

BestMark is a popular mystery shopping website that connects you with opportunities to earn money while helping companies improve their customer service.

Recommended reading: How To Become A Mystery Shopper

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about ways to get paid to walk.

Can I get paid for walking?

There are tons of ways to get paid for walking including via fitness apps like SweatCoin and CashWalk that reward you for meeting daily step goals or participating in walking challenges. Rewards include things like gift cards, discounts, cash, and free stuff.

Besides using fitness apps that reward you for walking, you can also make money walking by working as a gig worker for TaskRabbit and DoorDash. These jobs include tasks like delivering food, running errands, and other jobs that require walking.

One of my favorite ways to make money walking is working as a Rover dog walker. If you love spending time with animals, you should consider becoming a dog walker.

What is the best app that pays you to walk?

Many activity tracker apps pay you to walk and each has its pros and cons. The most popular walking apps include CashWalk, Sweatcoin, Charity Miles, and StepBet. Each of these apps is user-friendly, easy to use, and rewards people for their movement. You get to choose from many rewards including gift cards, fitness gear, or donating your money to the chosen charity of your choice.

Is Sweatcoin real money?

Sweatcoin is not real money, but instead digital currency used in the Sweatcoin app. Sweatcoin users earn Sweatcoins based on how much they walk per day. As you take steps, digital coins are accumulated and can be redeemed for different rewards in the app like products, services, and discounts.

Can you earn money with a Fitbit?

While you can’t earn any rewards or money on the Fitbit app, you can connect your Fitbit to fitness apps that reward you for daily movement. Programs and apps like MyWalgreens, StepBet, and others allow you to easily connect your Fitbit to the app.

Why do apps pay you to walk?

Apps pay users to walk because they make money from advertisements when users use their apps.

19 Ways To Get Paid To Walk – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to get paid to walk.

There are many ways to make extra money and get free stuff by walking, dancing, cycling, sleeping, and other health-related activities. Take advantage of these free apps and keep your motivation up by earning points and rewards toward free things like gift cards, fitness classes, food, and more.

The walking side hustles above have health benefits and even mental health positives, plus you may be able to earn an income, cash rewards, or even money for charity donations.

Have you ever tried any of these side hustles or walking apps that pay you for steps?

Recommended reading:

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

April 15, 2024 by Brett Tams

Home Equity Processing, Del and Non-Del, TPO, Rate Reset Products; Government Program Updates

This website requires Javascrip to run properly.

Home Equity Processing, Del and Non-Del, TPO, Rate Reset Products; Government Program Updates

By:
Rob Chrisman

Fri, Apr 12 2024, 11:24 AM

When I win the lottery, I am going to buy one of these to heat my blankets at home. Of course, that would mean that I will have to start playing the lottery, so until then I’ll just have to rely on my cat Myrtle to prep things. Just because you own a home, doesn’t mean you’re wealthy; some homeowners live in poverty. A LendingTree analysis shows that more than 3 million families who live in owner-occupied homes in the U.S. earn incomes below the poverty threshold for their family. 7.4 million families across the nation earn incomes below their poverty threshold… nearly 9 percent living in poverty! Of the families in poverty, 41 percent live in owner-occupied housing units and 59 percent live in renter-occupied housing units. Montana, Vermont, and Idaho have the largest share of impoverished families living in owner-occupied homes, 55 percent on average. New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey have the smallest share of impoverished families living in owner-occupied homes at 29 percent on average. (If you want to dig into what “poverty” means, here you go.) (Found here after 8:30AM ET, this week’s podcasts are sponsored by PHH Mortgage. From subservicing to correspondent lending, MSR/co-issue transactions, portfolio retention, reverse mortgages, and commercial servicing, PHH has solutions for the entire mortgage lifecycle. Hear an interview with MCT’s Phil Rasori on the current state of the capital markets and the “holy grail” for pricing technology.)

Lender and Broker Products, Software, and Services

Orion Lending has revamped its HyperTrack training program to now offer both scheduled and on-demand training! Orion’s recent Down Payment Assistance (DPA) session covered the newest enhancements to their proprietary Boost DPA program, including Forgivable Seconds, 1/0 & 2/1 Buydowns, and High Balance options. Wait… what, you weren’t one of the 150+ registrants for that session?? From best practices on how to service more borrowers using DPA in this competitive landscape to learning about all other Orion Loan programs, (and the amazing STAR Portal!) HyperTrack is here to support you! No need to miss out on anything Orion has to offer going forward, it’s on demand, when you need it! Visit here to hyper speed your business!

ACES Q3 2023 Mortgage QC Trends Report Finds Critical Defect Rate Declines for Fourth Consecutive Quarter: Despite mortgage interest rates and volume concerns, critical defect rates have maintained a downward trend, ending the quarter at 1.67 percent. Summary of Findings include the overall critical defect rate declined 2.91 percent ending the quarter at 1.67 percent, defects in Credit & Liabilities categories increased for the 3rd straight quarter, income/employment continues to lead all defect categories, and defect share increased across all loan types except conventional. “While fewer loans may afford lenders the opportunity to intensify their focus on quality, it’s clear that maintaining high standards amidst market fluctuations remains paramount. The persistence of this trend underscores the industry’s adaptability and dedication to ensuring the integrity of lending practices.”- ACES Executive Vice President Nick Volpe. Read the Report

“The Arizona sun isn’t the only thing heating up. Total Expert is bringing the hottest tech in retail mortgage to HousingWire The Gathering 2024! The Total Expert team will be on-site to show you how we can help make the most of every opportunity as the market looks to rebound in 2024 and beyond. Three ways to connect with us at the show: stop by our kiosk to grab some pickleball swag; catch our Founder & CEO Joe Welu’s session on The Modern Marketing Strategy in Retail Lending during the Vanguard Forum in Salon A-G, Monday at 4:15 p.m.; and grab a drink on us at the Pickleball viewing party at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Schedule a meeting to connect with us at the show.”

“Rocket Pro TPO is hosting a special edition Pro Talks event during the week of the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, MI. On April 24th, 2024, at 2PM ET tune in virtually to hear from Mike Fawaz, Executive Vice President of Rocket Pro TPO, and featured guest Kirk Herbstreit, a renowned sports analyst known for his insightful commentary on ESPN’s College GameDay and Thursday Night Football on Prime. Herbstreit will explore the parallels between the sports and business worlds, offering his take on strategy, teamwork and what it takes for professionals, athletes, and business alike, to succeed. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain unique perspectives from Kirk Herbstreit. Sign up now for this special edition of Pro Talks! For more information, contact Rocket Pro TPO today!”

Want to cut your home equity origination times down from 45 days to as few as 5 days? Heading to the MeridianLink User Forum in Nashville later this month? FirstClose, the fintech provider of one-of-a-kind home equity workflow solutions for mortgage and home equity lenders nationwide, is proud to be a Platinum sponsor of this year’s event. Lenders using FirstClose Equity have experienced a 35 percent increase in online applications, a 25 percent increase in pull-through and a 77 percent reduction in time to close from application to funding. So if you’re looking to up your “equity game” or get into the space, schedule a meeting with us at the show so we can discuss your home equity needs.

FINOFR (formerly Rate Reset) launched its patented Reset technology with Vantage West Credit Union. What is a Reset? A “Reset” eliminates the process of a refinance and can be completed by the homeowner in 90 seconds. FINOFR has forever changed Mortgage Banking (for the better) solving mortgage retention. FINOFR has a 90 percent retention rate and has completed over 22,000 Resets with over $22 billion in volume. If you own portfolio mortgage loans, and want to see a demo, contact Foster Kelly.

“The Mortgage Bankers Association Secondary & Capital Markets Conference Expo is nearly a month away. Have you scheduled time to meet with Spring EQ Correspondent Lending? Contact Joe Garcia or Rick Martinez today and meet with them during the conference at the Times Square EDITION Hotel! Spring EQ Correspondent is offering delegated and non-delegated options to qualified correspondent sellers, with maximum premiums paid up to 3 percent. The need for home equity solutions is surging among borrowers, so make sure your business is prepared to meet this demand by partnering with the experts in home equity at Spring EQ. Interested in a correspondent partnership? Click here. We look forward to seeing you in New York City!”

Government Lending News

USDA Rural Development Bulletin discusses GUS changes and updates to HB-1-3555, Chapters 8, 12, and 15. Additionally, the bulletin announces revisions to technical Handbook-1-3555, Chapters 8, 12, and 15. These changes became effective upon the recent issuance of a Procedure Notice (PN).

FHA published extensions to its temporary regulatory waiver and related Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1 waiver, which allow mortgagees to utilize alternative methods for conducting meetings with borrowers in accordance with FHA’s early default intervention requirements. These alternatives provide practical and useful methods for conducting meetings with borrowers while ensuring they still receive needed information directly from their mortgage servicer.

Pursuant to APM 17-06 and Chapter 3, Part 21 §B(1) Ginnie Mae monitors its counterparties portfolios to ensure Ginnie Mae Issuers meet acceptable risk parameters. Ginnie Mae has observed increased prepayment activity in some elements of its program. Ginnie Mae posted reminders to Issuers in Ginnie Mae News and Notes on prepayment activity monitoring.

Speaking of Ginnie, Ginnie Mae’s mortgage-backed securities (MBS) portfolio outstanding grew to $2.56 trillion in March, including $32.4 billion of total MBS issuance, leading to $12.5 billion of net growth. March’s new MBS issuance supports the financing of more than 101,000 households, including more than 45,000 first-time homebuyers. Approximately 68 percent of the March MBS issuance reflects new mortgages that support home purchases because refinance activity remained low due to higher interest rates. More information is available in this Ginnie Mae Press Release.

Capital Markets

It has certainly been a rough week for those hoping for relief from high rates. After March consumer prices caused a CPI-inspired selloff on Wednesday, it was much the same story again yesterday as investors continued to walk back the timing of Fed rate cuts. Inflation at the wholesale level rose 0.2 percent in March and 2.1 percent year-over-year, according to the Producer Price Index. Even with the smaller than expected month-over-month increases, the headline PPI rate accelerated from 1.6 percent in February while core PPI accelerated to 2.4 percent from 2.1 percent.

Bond traders are bracing for a potential rise in 10-year Treasury yields beyond 5 percent, as the scenario of no rate cuts by the Fed this year looks increasingly possible. Pricing in Fed Funds futures now implies less than a one-in-five chance that the Fed will cut rates by a quarter point in June. Prior to Wednesday’s CPI report, pricing implied more than a 50 percent chance of a June rate cut. Richmond Fed President Barkin said yesterday that recent inflation figures raise questions and that he is reluctant to declare victory over inflation. New York Fed President Williams said that he expects inflation to move closer to 2.0 percent in 2025, but that there’s no need to ease in the “very near term.”

March import and export prices kicked off today’s calendar (expectations were for both to increase 0.7 percent versus 0.3 percent and 0.8 percent previously) but are totally overshadowed by the CPI and PPI data this week. Later today brings preliminary April Michigan sentiment (which includes forward-looking inflation expectations), and remarks from multiple Fed speakers.

Bank earnings also kick off with JP Morgan, Citigroup, and Wells Fargo reporting before the open along with BlackRock and State Street Wall Street is expecting a subdued earnings season as global growth picks up. A solid domestic economy is expected to fuel a rise in profit growth for S&P 500 companies, and strong margins from big tech will be a key driver. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices better than Thursday by about .125, the 10-year yielding 4.52 after closing yesterday at 4.58 percent, and the 2-year yielding 4.91.

Employment

“A non-QM investor is seeking to hire for a Capital Markets Strategy role responsible for growing our market share with existing originator clients by leveraging the firm’s capital markets and product development capabilities. The ideal candidate will have 5-10+ years of experience at a non-agency investor or experience as a senior capital markets or product development professional within an originator. Remote or New York City based. The company is rapidly growing and currently purchasing ~$3bn/yr. across Non-QM, DSCR and 2nd liens.” Interested parties should send a confidential note to Chrisman LLC’s Anjelica Nixt for forwarding.

“While competitors have struggled to keep their doors open, Sierra Pacific Wholesale’s team has continued to grow. This last quarter, our Wholesale Channel welcomed 8 new Account Executives including Jason Wood, Sharlee Stemmons, Fay Hoffman, Denise Tully, Jeff Dolby, Steve Munster, Greg Neidhart, and Melanie Rocha. We also hired industry veteran Jonathan McCash as Regional Vice President – TPO Sales East. These new additions have brought a wealth of mortgage experience and align with the core values that are foundational to the ONE Sierra company culture. From cutting-edge technology and full-service operational support to a corporate commitment to continual growth, we equip our employees with the tools and resources they need to be successful in any market. If you’re an Account Executive looking for an opportunity to work with some of the best leadership in Wholesale today, send a note to Rob Saunders (EVP – TPO Production).”

Since 1902, OceanFirst Bank has believed in supporting and growing the local communities it serves. Initially, the focus was helping neighbors realize the dream of owning a home. Now, the Bank is fulfilling those dreams and assisting families with all of their financial needs during every stage of life. OceanFirst is a $13.5 billion regional bank providing financial services throughout New Jersey and in the metropolitan markets of Philadelphia, New York, Baltimore, and Boston. Recently, OceanFirst was recognized as being one of the best regional banks in the country by Newsweek. Thus, making the Bank a great place for top producing Loan Officers to take their careers to new levels. Contact John Costa, Senior Vice President and Head of Mortgage Sales or dial 609.444.6121 for this exciting opportunity.

FDIC | Equal Housing Lender | Equal Opportunity Employer.

Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

What Is Forex Options Trading?

How Forex Options Trading Works

Types of Forex Options Available

Vanilla Call and Put Options

SPOT Options

Example of Trading Forex Options

Benefits and Risks of Forex Options Trading

Benefits

Risks

The Takeaway

FAQ

What are some types of forex options?

What is a forex call option?

How are forex options settled?

What Is a Luxury or “Rich People” Car Brand?

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

Examples of Popular Luxury Car Brands

What Car Brands Are Rich Americans Choosing?

Pros and Cons of Luxury Car Brands

Pros

Cons

Popular Alternatives to Rich Car Brands

Tips for Choosing a Car Brand

The Takeaway

FAQ

Which car brand is driven most by millionaires?

What is the most common car for rich people?

What percentage of millionaires choose to buy used cars rather than new cars?

MSR Execution, VOI, Post-Closing Audit, Client Acquisition Tools; May Training and Events

Option 1: Copy and send this link

9 Important Things to Know Before You Invest in I Bonds

1. I Bonds May Offer a Higher Rate, But Not a Fixed Rate

2. Your I Bond Principal Is Guaranteed

3. I Bonds Offer Some Tax Breaks

4. I Bonds Are Similar to E Bonds & EE Bonds

Get up to $300 when you bank with SoFi.

Open a SoFi Checking and Savings Account with direct deposit and get up to a $300 cash bonus. Plus, get up to 4.60% APY on your cash!

5. I Bonds Are Easy to Purchase

6. I Bonds Are a Long-Term Investment

7. Other Investments Might Offer Better Returns

8. It’s Hard to Predict an I Bond’s Return Over Time

9. You Must Meet Certain Criteria to Buy an I Bond

The Takeaway

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

What Are Barbers?

How Much Do Starting Barbers Make?

What Salary Can a Barber Expect to Make?

Barber Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

Pros and Cons of a Barber’s Salary

The Takeaway

FAQ

Can you make $100,000 a year as a barber?

Do people like being a barber?

Is it hard to get hired as a barber?

Valuation, Online App., Data Intelligence, UW Guideline Integration Tools; STRATMOR ICE Integration

Option 1: Copy and send this link

Check your score with SoFi

Track your credit score for free. Sign up and get $10.*

What Are Pediatricians?

How Much Do Starting Pediatricians Make a Year?

What is the Average Salary for a Pediatrician?

Pediatrician Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Pros and Cons of Pediatrician Salary

The Takeaway

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a pediatrician?

Do people like being a pediatrician?

Is it hard to get hired as a pediatrician?

7 trendy summer home decor ideas

1. Set up an intimate indoor ambience

2. Go with nature-inspired mood boards

3. Give life to the hushed colour palettes

4. Include a selection of breathable fabrics

5. Get your hands on the handcrafted pieces

6. Make way for the vacay vibes

7. Don’t forget the fresh greens

How To Get Paid To Walk

1. CashWalk