Homebuying Looking for all Freddie Mac blog posts about homebuying? You'll find them here. How to Get the Best Interest Rate for Your Mortgage Understanding how lenders determine interest rates, and how you may be able to lower your rate, can help you secure the best mortgage for you. Learn more Understanding VA Home Loans If you are a current service member or veteran, learn how VA home loans can help make buying a home more affordable and the process for buying a home using one. Learn more How Many Starter Homes Are Being Built in Your State? We compared the construction of starter homes, which is the main driver of the housing shortage, in 1980 and 2019 by state. How does your state fare? Learn more How the Secondary Mortgage Market Works The secondary mortgage market connects lenders, homebuyers and investors from around the world in a system that makes home possible for millions of families and renters. Learn more The 7 Parts of a Mortgage Payment Understanding the components that make up a mortgage payment can help you choose the mortgage option that is best for you. Learn more The 4 C's of Qualifying for a Mortgage Thinking about buying a home but not sure whether you qualify for a mortgage? Here's what lenders look for in a borrower. Learn more Homebuying Negotiations: Responding to a Counteroffer Learn what is most commonly negotiated during homebuying and how to keep your wishes, your wallet and your cool throughout the process. Learn more Do I Need to Put Down 20% on a Home? You may be overestimating the upfront costs of homeownership. Some mortgage programs make it possible to put down as little as 3%. Learn more Should My Offer Include an Escalation Clause? If you and your real estate agent are confident that there will be multiple offers on a home, you may consider including an escalation clause in your offer. Learn more What to Expect with a Home Inspection A home inspection uncovers any underlying issues with the property so that you can complete your home purchase with confidence. Learn more Understanding Contingency Clauses in Homebuying Contingencies are specific conditions you can add to your home purchase agreement to protect yourself. Learn more 3 Strategies to Win a Bidding War Today's market is competitive and bidding wars are not uncommon. So, how do you "win" this war? Learn more