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Rocket Companies announces deal to acquire Redfin for $1.75 billion

Housing Wire

billion in equity. The deal, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both Rocket Companies and Redfin, is expected to close in the second or third quarter of 2025. Today, Rocket Companies announced it has entered into an agreement to purchase digital real estate brokerage Redfin in an all-stock transaction valued at $1.75

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22 U.S. metros where buying a home is cheaper than renting

Housing Wire

“Coming up with the down payment is still a huge barrier, but for those who can make it work, homeownership may come with lower monthly costs and the ability to build long-term wealth in the form of home equity – something you lose out on as a renter,” says Divounguy. Need help advising on rent vs. buying? Consider the pros and cons of each.

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Home equity loan vs. HELOC – What’s the difference?

Housing Wire

While mortgage rates are high and economic uncertainty looms, there is good news for borrowers who already have a mortgage and may be looking to tap into their equity. Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are both loan products that are secured by the equity on a borrower’s home. Read on to find out.

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No Congress, no rate hikes: Bill Ackman’s plan to privatize the GSEs

Housing Wire

Bill Ackman, the billionaire founder of Pershing Square Capital Management , has an audacious plan to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac without congressional approval. The proposal involves the federal government forgiving hundreds of billions of dollars while also reducing capital requirements.

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Homestreet enters agreement to merge with Mechanics Bank

Housing Wire

Under the terms of the merger which was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies HomeStreet Bank will be merged with and into Mechanics Bank. The companies’ announcement said that HomeStreet has a pre-transaction estimated equity value of $300 million, while Mechanics Bank has equity value of $3.3

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Better launches ‘Equity Unlocker’ to help Amazon employees buy homes

Housing Wire

Digital mortgage lender and nonbank home loan provider Better.com has launched “Equity Unlocker,” a mortgage innovation that allows employees to pledge vested stock equity as collateral for a down payment without selling their stock. Equity Unlocker is currently available in Florida, New York and Washington state.

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Are you prepared to respond as borrower demand shifts?

Housing Wire

While retaining existing customers should remain a key priority, as interest rates fluctuate, lenders should be prepared to support an increase in new business for refinances, purchases and home equity lending. To earn the borrower’s loyalty and trust, the digital application experience must be as intuitive and efficient as possible.