How Mortgage Rates Affect Housing Affordability

Understanding Real Estate Taxes and IRS Mortgage Interest Exemptions Real estate taxes are a fundamental cost of property ownership, yet they are often misunderstood. Beyond annual property tax bills, homeowners and investors must also consider how federal tax rules—particularly those established by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)—affect the true cost of owning real estate. One of the most significant tax benefits available to property owners is the mortgage interest deduc

Hancock County , Harrison County , Jackson County Deadline: April 1, 2026 Mississippi Department of Revenue Website - Homestead Exemption Understanding Homestead Exemptions: How Homeowners Reduce Property Taxes and Protect Equity Homestead exemptions are one of the most valuable—and often overlooked—benefits available to homeowners. Designed to provide tax relief and financial protection, homestead exemptions can lower property tax bills, limit assessment increases, and, in

Mortgage Market and Rates: What Happened in the First Week of January 2026 As the calendar turned to 2026, the mortgage market started the year on a relatively stable yet cautious note. In the first seven days of January, mortgage interest rates hovered near levels not seen since late 2024, while broader economic signals and policy expectations continued to shape borrower sentiment and lender behavior. This early-year snapshot offers insight into where rates stand, what’s dri