May 11, 2022 By Barry Schwartz

It’s never been a worse time to spend money. It’s like a bad game show to see which can go up higher – interest rates or a gallon of gas. On top of that my wife and I have been arguing about the front door to our home. For years she has wanted a new one, and I keep telling her it’s a waste of money.  I don’t know if you know this, Mortgage Fans, but they range anywhere from $1,000- $6,000 – which to me is a Vegas vacation (*not including gambling losses). So yesterday a bird flew smack into the middle of our door, and then died right there on my doorstep. As a germ-freak I had no time to feel sorry for this bird – I put on my gloves, mask, and grabbed a towel and a garbage bag to remove it. Two things happened at this time: my 14-pound dog Paisely started barking at it like crazy, trying to act all tough in front of a dead bird – and then an Amazon guy came to deliver a package. I pointed to the bird and said to him, “You can take this back, we didn’t order it.” That joke landed worse than the bird did, he didn’t even give me a courtesy laugh – just a nod and a, “Mm hmm.” Anyway, my wife told me, “That’s a sign, we are getting a new door!” I wasn’t going to argue with her, even when you win a fight with your wife you end up losing – guys, you know what I’m talking about. So I guess I’m trying to say please call me for your loans, I can use some commission to pay for the new door.

Door Quote of the Day: “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” – Milton Berle

This Week in Economic History: It was this week back in 1886 when Congress voted to discontinue the use of the ‘half-dime’ as currency. In its place the five-cent piece was introduced. I wish I was making that up, Mortgage Fans. Those were the important topics Congress dealt with back in the day. Also, I just voted this The Only Blog With Nickel Facts

Wuss’up This Week: A few important reports coming out this week – today we’ve got the Consumer Price Index (expected 0.2%), tomorrow Jobless Claims (191k expected), Friday the U of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Report (expected 64.4), and Saturday my physical (expected weight up 3.4 pounds). If these reports come out good for the economy you’ll see rates continue to rise, and vice-versa if the numbers disappoint.

Interest Rate Update: Today we find a 30-yr conforming fixed rate (*that’s for any loan amount at $647k or less) in the mid-to-upper 5s, with ARM rates about a quarter lower. Jumbo 30yr fixed rates (*over $647k) can be found anywhere from the low 5s to high-5s with Jumbo ARMs about a half a point lower. As usual rates will vary based on the type of home, equity in the home, your credit score, and if you’ve ever won a lifetime supply of something .

Don’t Forget to Remember: Any purchase or refinance loan that closes with me I will waive $575 in lender fees! Grab yourself a cup of instant karma and pass my info along to any friends, family, coworkers, or people that like wholesome stories that can use this gift.

Door Quote of the Day 2: “’Report spam” is the elevator close door button of the internet.” – @WilShipley

Timeout for Trivia: Congrats to those who last week guessed Julie Louis-Dreyfus. Want to be entered into a drawing to win an Apple Jacks T-shirt ? Simply email me the answer to this week’s Who Am I? question. Good luck: “It was on this day in 2005 my song was number one on the US Charts, and became the first digital download to sell over one-million copies; the two word title of this song could be renamed ‘Shout Female’. This was exciting for me because it came off of my first solo album. If you asked me if I am musically talented, my two word answer will be the name of the rock group that put me on the map back in the mid-to-late 90s. That’s my professional life, personally I have had two husbands. My first marriage lasted from 2002- 2016, my husband’s first name was the same name of a love boat captain actor. My second (and current) husband is a country singer with one helluva voice. Actually… I’ve gone one too.”

About The Author

Barry_Schwartz

Barry Schwartz

Originally from Wilmette, Illinois, Barry graduated from the University of Kansas in the late 80s and started working for Perl Mortgage in 1998. Barry's drive and motivation came from his first home buying experience. His dedication to clients has helped Barry win industry recognition and rankings in the Top 40 Under 40 and Scotsman Guide Top 200.

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