Mortgage Trend Updates

If you’ve been holding off on buying a home because you thought qualifying for a mortgage would be too difficult, now might be the time to take a second look. Lending standards are beginning to ease—just enough to help more well-qualified buyers get approved, without repeating the risky mistakes of the 2008 housing crash.

Recent data from the Mortgage Bankers Association shows that mortgage credit availability is at its highest level in nearly three years. This means banks are slightly loosening their lending requirements—allowing more flexibility for buyers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments. It’s an encouraging trend that’s creating more opportunities for those ready to enter the market. As Brett Hively, SVP of Mortgage, Finance, and Strategy at Ameris Bancorp, says: “This uptick is opening the door for many borrowers to move forward with a home purchase or a refinance program.”

But before you worry about another housing bubble, here’s the key difference: lending standards are still much stronger than they were in the years leading up to the crash. While access to credit is expanding, responsible lending practices are still in place. According to the Mortgage Credit Availability Index, current standards are far more stable and less risky than they were in 2004–2007, helping ensure a safer, more secure housing market for both buyers and lenders.

With mortgage credit becoming more accessible, more buyers can turn their dream of homeownership into a reality. If you’re ready to take the next step, our team can help connect you with trusted local lenders and guide you through the process. Let’s make your move happen!

To learn more about the mortgage process in 2025 take a look at this article from Keeping Current Matters.