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  • Centek in the News: Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed Next?

    Centek in the News: Where Are Mortgage Rates Headed Next?

    Mortgage rates have dipped to a seven-week low, with Freddie Mac reporting the 30-year fixed averaging 6.43% at the start of July. To gauge what comes next, MarketWatch asked six industry professionals where rates are headed — and our founder and principal, Gloria Shulman, was among the experts featured.

    The Near-Term Consensus: Stable, Not Falling

    The prevailing view is that rates are more likely to hold steady than to fall meaningfully over the summer. Several of those surveyed described a higher-for-longer but range-bound environment — rates that fluctuate week to week without a sharp directional move, anchored by inflation that has yet to fully normalize and a Federal Reserve holding policy steady.

    • NerdWallet’s Kate Wood sees rates as roughly stable in July and views a significant decline this month as unlikely.
    • AD Mortgage’s Rich Hoffmann expects the 30-year fixed to stay largely unchanged, with any real move more probable in the fourth quarter.
    • Motto Mortgage’s Vic Lombardo anticipates the mid-6% range with only modest week-to-week volatility.
    • Zillow Home Loans economist Kara Ng forecasts rates near 6.4%–6.5% through summer, easing gradually toward about 6.2% by year-end — a drift lower, not a drop.
    • UMB Bank’s Matt Locke cautions that if inflation reaccelerates, rates will likely climb in anticipation of the Fed’s response.

    Gloria Shulman’s Perspective

    Speaking to MarketWatch, Gloria pointed to geopolitics as the swing factor. Renewed stability, she noted, could allow rates to retrace toward this year’s earlier sub-6% lows, whereas the Middle East conflict has generated real inflationary pressure through energy markets. The recent softening in oil prices, in her view, is an encouraging signal for the broader rate picture.

    Should You Lock In Now?

    On timing, the panel was consistent: predicting short-term rate movements is extremely difficult. For buyers who are financially prepared and have found the right home, waiting for a marginal rate improvement can mean missing out on inventory or pricing — and refinancing remains an option if rates fall later. As the experts framed it, the better question is less whether rates will fall far enough, and more whether the monthly payment works for you today and whether the home fits your life for years to come.

    Read the Full Article

    Source: Alisa Wolfson, “As mortgage rates hit a 7-week low, we asked 6 pros where rates are headed next”, MarketWatch, July 2, 2026.

  • March 2026 Market Update

    March 2026 Market Update

    March 2026 arrives with a familiar sense of déjà vu. Rates had been tracking in a positive direction through late winter, and then escalating Middle East tensions reignited inflationary pressure through rising oil prices. The result: modest upward movement in the 30-year fixed, which now sits close to the 6% mark. That said, 7- and 10-year ARMs remain firmly in the 5s and continue to represent compelling value.

    We hope, as we always do, for a swift and peaceful resolution. The impact on everyday consumers — from gas prices to cost of living — is a direct transmission mechanism into the mortgage market. Until clarity emerges, we are focused on structuring loans that protect clients regardless of what the next several months bring.

    Current Rate Snapshot

    Loan Program Rate / Notes
    Jumbo ARM (7 or 10-Year) Low to mid 5% range — attractive for buyers with a near term time horizon or plan to refinance.
    30-Year Fixed Hovering near the 6% range; slight upward pressure from oil-driven inflation.
    Bank Statement Programs Low-to-mid 6% range. Asset utilization programs also available as an alternative income qualifier.

    Loan Program Highlights

    Jumbo ARM Programs

    Hybrid ARM products — particularly the 7- and 10-year fixed periods — remain the standout value in today’s market. For buyers with a defined time horizon or those who anticipate refinancing within the fixed window, locking in the low-to-mid 5% range on a jumbo ARM can translate to hundreds of dollars per month in savings relative to a 30-year fixed. Over five to seven years, that accumulates meaningfully.

    Bank Statement & Asset Utilization Programs

    Bank statement programs for self-employed borrowers have also repriced favorably. We are placing loans in the low-to-mid 6% range using business bank statements — no tax returns required. Asset utilization programs, which qualify borrowers based on their asset base rather than documented income, remain a powerful alternative for clients with substantial holdings.

    Real Estate Market Conditions

    The supply and demand picture in real estate has reached a form of equilibrium. Correctly priced properties are moving, while overpriced listings are accumulating days on the market.

    Seller Tip: Aligning your list price with current comps is more important than ever.

    Buyer Tip: Properties that have been on the market 30 to 60 days often present a negotiating window worth pursuing. We are here to help you model the financing on any opportunity you are tracking.

    Economic Snapshot

    The most recent employment report disappointed, with the economy shedding approximately 90,000 positions and prior-month figures revised lower — continuing a pattern of softness.

    The CPI reading came in flat month-over-month, a neutral outcome in isolation, but one that could shift in the coming months if oil prices remain elevated. Bond markets will be watching closely.

    Notable Recent Transactions

    Property Type Loan Amount Details
    3-Unit Investment Property $3,450,000 75% LTV — qualified using bank statements, no tax returns
    SFR – Short-Term Rental $2,000,000 65% LTV — underwritten on rental income from a professional property management company

    Loan Programs At A Glance

    Program Ideal Borrower How They Qualify Key Benefit
    Conventional / Jumbo W-2 employees, first-time buyers & high-balance loans Tax returns, pay stubs, 2-yr employment history Conforming and jumbo loan amounts available
    Bank Statement Loans Self-employed, business owners & 1099 earners 12–24 months bank statements — no tax returns Great for buyers turned down by traditional banks
    Asset Utilization Retirees & high-net-worth buyers with portfolios Assets depleted over loan term = qualifying income No job or income needed — assets qualify them
    DSCR — Investor Loans Real estate investors — SFR or 2–4 unit properties Property cash flow covers mortgage — no personal income No property limit — scales with growing portfolios
    HELOC Homeowners looking to tap existing equity in their property Home equity line; flexible draws with multiple underwriting options Ideal for renovations, debt consolidation, or reserves
    Multi-Family Investors acquiring 5+ unit or mixed-use buildings Property income, DSCR, or commercial underwriting 5 to 100+ units — residential & commercial covered
    Construction Loans Buyers building a home or investors building rentals One-time close — covers land + full build cost Owner-occupied and investment construction eligible
    Commercial Owners buying offices, retail, warehouses, mixed-use Business financials, property income, or SBA programs Owner-occupied and investment properties both covered
    Reverse Mortgage Homeowners 62+ with significant equity in their home Age + equity qualifies — no monthly payment required Helps seniors stay in place or buy their next home

    5 Borrowers You May Be Missing

    • Self-Employed Turned Down Elsewhere: Bank statement loan — qualify on deposits, not taxes.
    • Investor Buying Their 8th+ Property: DSCR loan — no personal income docs, no property limit.
    • Retiree with $1M+ in Savings: Asset utilization — portfolio qualifies as income.
    • Client Wants to Build a Custom Home: Construction loan — land + build, one close.
    • Senior Sitting on Lots of Equity: Reverse mortgage — eliminates payment, frees cash.

    Why Partner With Centek

    • We Say YES When Others Can’t: Access to 50+ wholesale lenders — more options for every borrower.
    • One Relationship — Every Loan Type: Residential, commercial, construction, reverse — all under one roof.
    • Fast, Communicative Closings: Your reputation stays intact. We close on time, every time.
    • Co-Marketing Support: Co-branded flyers, social posts, and buyer guides at no cost.
    • Hard Deal Hotline for Partners: Tough scenario? Reach out before you give up — we’ll find a way.

    A complete menu of our loan products is attached for your reference. As always, we welcome your feedback and look forward to speaking with you soon.

    Best regards,
    Gloria, Curtis, Ted, Coby, Ben and all of us at Centek
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • January 2026 Market Update

    January 2026 Market Update

    As the new year picks up steam, we want to make a bold statement that we hope the people of Iran can overcome the current despotic rule and embark on a new age of democracy that not only lifts the quality of life for all Iranians, but to everyone in the world!! The interest rate complex has seen a few interesting events transpire in the last few days. One of the most interesting elements is President Trump’s announcement that he will be instructing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase up to $200 billion of mortgage-backed securities. This announcement had an immediate effect of lowering conforming mortgage rates by 0.125% to 0.25%. Time will tell whether positive results continue to gain momentum or if we remain in the trading range we have seen for the past few months. Rates are currently in the high 5% area for generic 30 yr fixed loans.

    Jumbo loan programs are inching down to the low 5% range for 7- or 10-year arms. These are very attractive products if you feel your time horizon is within this range or feel rates will be lower in the next couple of years to refinance. Obviously, no one knows for sure, but saving a few hundred dollars a month adds up over 5 to 7 years.

    Business bank statement programs have kept pace with the overall decline in mortgage rates. We are not seeing rates in the low to mid 6% range for these programs. In addition, we have programs that allow us to use assets as an alternative form of income. This is a powerful tool for qualifying for a mortgage.

    Real Estate Market

    On the real estate front, we continue to see a form of equilibrium on the supply / demand side. Aggressively priced properties still see a lot of activity, with overpriced properties sitting on the market for extended periods of time. The takeaway is if you are a seller, make sure your agent has you dialed in on what the comps reflect as a realistic price. If you are a buyer, an approach is to look at properties that have been on the market for 30-60 days. The seller might be more flexible in their sales price.

    Last week’s employment numbers were benign, with the economy adding 50,000 jobs. Time will tell if the economy adds more jobs or if technology is reducing the number of job openings. Tomorrow’s inflation report (CPI) should provide insight into the overall cost of living. We think the big challenge is with the overall cost of housing. Large metropolitan areas have not seen much abatement with housing costs. Maybe lower interest rates can be a positive force on this front.

    Notable Recent Transactions:

    • Mammoth Condo Hotel: $2,600,000 sales price. Loan of $2,000,000. Challenge – sourcing a lender that would lend on condo/hotels. We were one of the first 3 condos to close in the project.
    • Owner-Occupied Industrial Property: $5,250,000 sales price. Loan of $3,937,000. Challenge – Borrowers had multiple owner-occupied loans for their business. The subject was near their corporate office. We were able to explain that the new property was going to be an ancillary facility to their existing warehouse. The bank provided owner-occupied rates, as well as having the first year of the loan being interest-only. In addition to these, we closed several loans with various sources with 85% and 90% loan to values.

    As always, we welcome your feedback and look forward to speaking with you soon.

    Best regards,
    Gloria, Curtis, Ted, Ben & Coby
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • October 2025 Market Update

    October 2025 Market Update

    Happy Halloween to all those who celebrate!!

    We thought the article below from our friends at MBS Quoteline Mortgage Market News summarized this past week’s events with great clarity. In addition, we wanted to briefly mention Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the mortgage arena. While AI will certainly assist all parties and all elements of the mortgage origination process, AI will not replace the human element of relationships as well as subtle nuances that seasoned professionals utilize in interacting with banks and other members of the mortgage community. We can’t emphasize enough the number of times we pick up the phone and speak directly with an underwriter to walk through details of a loan that are overlooked or not brought up. Human interaction still exists!!!

    Also wanted to spread the word that conforming loan amounts have been raised (can deliver these loans now). Please see below the new loan limits for Los Angeles and Orange County-(other counties might be the same or lower. Please call for specific county information)

    # of Units Conforming Conforming High Balance
    1 $825,550 $1,238,325
    2 $1,057,000 $1,585,500
    3 $1,277,600 $1,916,400
    4 $1,587,850 $2,381,775

    Of note, the increase in loan amounts is significant in that the federal government is bullish on real estate values which is a positive for all of us…..

    MBS Qouteline Synopsis of this past week:

    Fed Meeting

    With the lack of major economic data due to the government shutdown, investors turned their attention to other areas, particularly the Fed meeting on Wednesday. While the Fed made the anticipated rate cut, comments from Chair Powell were negative for mortgage markets. The US and China reached a trade deal for a year which avoided a threatened increase in tariffs, but it caused little reaction. As a result, mortgage rates ended the week a bit higher, up from their lowest levels of the year.

    As expected, the Fed reduced the federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a range of 3.75% to 4.00%. There were no significant surprises in the meeting statement, which noted the high level of uncertainty in the economic outlook due to government policy changes and the lack of economic data during the shutdown. The big news came during the press conference after the meeting. Investors had been pricing in a roughly 90% chance of an additional 25 basis point rate reduction at the next meeting in December, so they were caught completely off guard when Fed Chair Powell said that another rate cut is far from a sure thing, with “strongly differing views” among officials about how to proceed.

    While it was widely anticipated, another policy change also was notable. The Fed maintains an enormous portfolio of bonds so that banks will have access to liquidity to help the economy run smoothly. To boost the economy during the pandemic, the Fed more than doubled its holdings of Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities. Since 2022, it has been gradually returning to more normal levels by letting maturing securities roll off its balance sheet without replacing them. According to Powell, the current portfolio of roughly $6.6 trillion is likely the appropriate size based on economic conditions. As a result, the Fed will resume purchasing bonds to replace maturing ones, although the mix of securities may shift over time.

    The latest confidence survey published by the Conference Board revealed that consumers are concerned about the impact of higher tariffs and the government shutdown. In October, the index dropped to the lowest level since the new tariffs in April. The decline was steepest among younger and lower-income consumers. In particular, the outlook for future labor market conditions weakened.

    It was another good week for mortgage applications, especially for refinancings, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). Applications to refinance rose 9% from last week and were a massive 111% higher than one year ago. Purchase applications increased 5% from the prior week and were up 20% from last year at this time.

    Looking ahead, investors will continue to watch for additional information about tariffs and monitor comments from Fed officials for hints about monetary policy later in the year. With the government shutdown, it likely will be another light week for major economic data. The ISM national manufacturing sector index will be released on Monday and the services sector index on Wednesday. The key Employment report is scheduled for Friday, but it is expected to be delayed.

    Very truly yours, all of us at Centek Capital Group!!
    Gloria, Curtis, Ted, Ben & Coby
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • Fall 2025 Rate & Market Outlook

    Fall 2025 Rate & Market Outlook

    As we leave summer behind and make our way into fall, we want to provide a quick overview of the real estate finance market. All in all, rates have declined from the year’s highest levels and have retraced back with rates in the high 5% range with some hybrid fixed rate loans in the low to mid 5% area. We are closing deals in the high 4% area on owner occupied commercial transactions. The interest rate complex is in a tight range waiting on the Federal Reserve to lower rates again as well as waiting to see the economic data flow. Markets are betting on slightly lower rates in the upcoming months. We advise our clients to reach out and discuss potential financing options, so we have a strategy in place of moving forward. In many instances, with current rates, now is an excellent opportunity to refinance without having to wait on lower rates. Our relationship with our clients allows us to refinance again with limited costs if rates continue to decline. In some cases, we absorb 100% of all the associated fees. Keep in mind, there are many loan programs available that utilize bank statements for qualifying – monthly business cash flow or just the asset base itself. Another tool we utilize is a borrower’s retirement account to provide cash flow for underwriting purposes. As we all know, each borrower has their own unique set of circumstances that we can analyze and move forward with a strategy that will accomplish the financial goal..

    On the real estate front, we see prices remaining stable with houses being on the market a little longer than has been the norm for the past few years. Ultimately, this could lead to slight price declines. However, if rates decline into the lower 5% area or high 4% range, prices will most likely at a minimum stabilize or potentially resume their upward trajectory. The monthly payment is one of the most important driving factors in the decision-making process of purchasing a new home.

    Best regards,
    Gloria Shulman, Curtis Cohen, Ted Kachadorian & All of us from Centek
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • July 2025 Market Update

    July 2025 Market Update

    The excerpt below pretty much sums up where we have been interest rate wise for the past few months. The mortgage market has remained in a narrow range for the past several months. We feel the interest rate complex is currently in a holding pattern until there is evidence of inflation getting closer to the 2% Fed target rate or unemployment rises to a level of creating concern for the Federal Reserve. Neither one of these is occurring at this moment, but we are one or two CPI and employment reports away from a potential breakthrough in rates trending down. One of the wild cards in all the above is how tariffs are going to impact inflation. Remains to be seen. Some pundits argue that the tariffs are inflationary, while others take a 180-degree vision that the tariffs will have a minimal impact on prices. This is one of, if not the biggest, points the Fed is waiting for clarity on.

    As far as the mortgage market is concerned, rates have remained steady in the mid to high six percent range. As a reminder we offer a full spectrum of residential loan products that do not require any type of tax returns. These loans are based on bank statements and/or rental income on the property. Perfect product for the self-employed with major write offs so the AGI is minimized on tax returns.

    Many multifamily and commercial loans are maturing which requires cash for the payoff or refinancing. Some of these existing loans will roll rather than being due, but the new rate based on the original loan paperwork is always almost higher than we can offer with a new refinance loan. Also, cash out is available.

    A few notable recently closed loans

    • $13M sale in Bel Air-70% loan – we established a banking relationship with one of our lenders that made the loan terms possible with borrower retaining his two other homes
    • $4.25M Sale in Los Feliz 80% loan, challenging underwriting utilizing existing income, but allowing income from a new contract to the buyer’s corporation vs. individually from a major studio
    • $2.5M cash out refinance- 18-unit apartment loan in Silver Lake. We worked with the borrower to buy out partners as part of a nine-property dissolution—This required extensive involvement by us with the partners, title and escrow.
    • 95% Loan – $1,209,750. The client is a professional who just graduated, and this was the first documented W2 position. This was an ideal program due to the limited down payment, but ability to handle the debt service. We helped orchestrate a gift on paper from the parents to show reserves.
    • Owner User commercial store front purchase -$1.8m sale with 80% loan. The buyer already owned another property in the immediate neighborhood.

    As always, we look forward to answering your questions about potential financing and going over what -if scenarios.

    Best regards,
    Gloria Shulman, Curtis Cohen, Ted Kachadorian & All of us from Centek
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • June 2025 Market Update

    June 2025 Market Update

    Summer is around the corner. Hard to imagine the year is almost half over! Needless to say, the last few months have been very volatile in all segments of everyday life from the economy to the geopolitical landscape…Even though the devastating fires are almost four months past, many clients are still attempting to figure out the next steps in their home rebuilding. The city is not making the process any easier with delays in remediation to the whole permit process. The insurance issues remain complex and convoluted. Hard to say when actual rebuilding will be moving ahead full steam.

    Tariff Tension

    On the political front, one word describes the pins and needles approach everyone is glued to …Tariffs!! Many people are frozen into moving forward with any major financial decision until there is greater clarity on how the tariff situation will play out. The stock market has been on a wild ride over the last 45 days. Keep the seat belt fastened!! However, this does not mean that the real estate market isn’t active. Sales at all price points continue forward with slightly longer marketing time, but prices remain firm with certain pockets fairing quite well. The relocation process of people affected by the fires has taken root in an uptick in purchases in Brentwood, Santa Monica, Marina areas, the South Bay, Coastal Orange County, and of course, the Valleys. Additionally, we have many programs for investment properties that are underwritten solely on the rental income of the property, rather than tax returns. These rates are in the high 5% range with banking relationships.

    On the mortgage front, conventional rates are in the mid 6% range with jumbo mortgages slightly lower and some 7 and 10 year arms in the high 5% range. Underwriting is straight forward with qualifications being status quo. We have a wide array of no tax return programs which are designed for self-employed clients. Business bank statement programs are an excellent alternative and have many user friendly variations with high star rates in the high 6% & low 7% area. Additionally, we have many programs for investment properties that are underwritten solely on the rental income of the property—No tax returns required.

    In the commercial realm, we are experiencing a significant uptick in volume with purchase activity and refinances of current loans that are maturing or rolling to market rates. Lenders can be very flexible with qualifying guidelines, especially for quality properties.

    Important: We have excellent banking relationships that focus on owner user properties. These rates are in the high 5% range with banking relationships and are very user friendly. On a sidebar, reverse mortgages are becoming increasingly important for many, and due the fact there’s no pre-payment penalty, we’re structuring transactions that make excellent economic sense.

    Stay tuned!

    Best regards,
    Gloria Shulman, Curtis Cohen, Ted Kachadorian & All of us from Centek
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • May 2025 Market Update

    May 2025 Market Update

    Summer is around the corner. Hard to imagine the year is almost half over! Needless to say, the last few months have been very volatile in all segments of everyday life from the economy to the geopolitical landscape…Even though the devastating fires are almost four months past, many clients are still attempting to figure out the next steps in their home rebuilding. The city is not making the process any easier with delays in remediation to the whole permit process. The insurance issues remain complex and convoluted. Hard to say when actual rebuilding will be moving ahead full steam.

    Tariff Tension

    On the political front, one word describes the pins and needles approach everyone is glued to …Tariffs!! Many people are frozen into moving forward with any major financial decision until there is greater clarity on how the tariff situation will play out. The stock market has been on a wild ride over the last 45 days. Keep the seat belt fastened!! However, this does not mean that the real estate market isn’t active. Sales at all price points continue forward with slightly longer marketing time, but prices remain firm with certain pockets fairing quite well. The relocation process of people affected by the fires has taken root in an uptick in purchases in Brentwood, Santa Monica, Marina areas, the South Bay, Coastal Orange County, and of course, the Valleys. Additionally, we have many programs for investment properties that are underwritten solely on the rental income of the property, rather than tax returns. These rates are in the high 5% range with banking relationships.

    On the mortgage front, conventional rates are in the mid 6% range with jumbo mortgages slightly lower and some 7 and 10 year arms in the high 5% range. Underwriting is straight forward with qualifications being status quo. We have a wide array of no tax return programs which are designed for self-employed clients. Business bank statement programs are an excellent alternative and have many user friendly variations with high star rates in the high 6% & low 7% area. Additionally, we have many programs for investment properties that are underwritten solely on the rental income of the property—No tax returns required.

    In the commercial realm, we are experiencing a significant uptick in volume with purchase activity and refinances of current loans that are maturing or rolling to market rates. Lenders can be very flexible with qualifying guidelines, especially for quality properties.

    Important: We have excellent banking relationships that focus on owner user properties. These rates are in the high 5% range with banking relationships and are very user friendly. On a sidebar, reverse mortgages are becoming increasingly important for many, and due the fact there’s no pre-payment penalty, we’re structuring transactions that make excellent economic sense.

    Stay tuned!

    Best regards,
    Gloria Shulman, Curtis Cohen, Ted Kachadorian & All of us from Centek
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • March 2025 Market Update

    March 2025 Market Update

    What a way to start March. Rates were trending in a positive direction, and then the Middle East escalated from a simmer to a boil. Oil prices have risen dramatically, creating an inflationary cycle that has pushed rates modestly higher — though they remain close to the 6% range. 7- and 10-year ARMs are still holding in the 5s.

    Hopefully there is some form of near-term resolution, allowing oil prices to settle and interest rates to follow the same trajectory. Time will tell. Most importantly, we hope for a swift conclusion and freedom for the Iranian people.

    Current Rate Snapshot

    Loan Program Rate / Notes
    Jumbo ARM (7 or 10-Year) Low to mid 5% range — attractive for buyers with a near term time horizon or plan to refinance.
    30-Year Fixed Hovering near the 6% range; slight upward pressure from oil-driven inflation.
    Bank Statement Programs Low-to-mid 6% range. Asset utilization programs also available as an alternative income qualifier.

    Loan Program Highlights

    Jumbo ARM Programs

    Jumbo loan rates in the low-to-mid 5% range make 7- and 10-year ARMs compelling products for buyers whose time horizon aligns with the fixed period — or for those who anticipate refinancing in the next few years. Saving even a few hundred dollars per month accumulates meaningfully over 5 to 7 years.

    Bank Statement & Asset Utilization Programs

    Business bank statement programs have kept pace with the broader decline in mortgage rates, now in the low-to-mid 6% range. We also offer asset utilization programs that treat qualifying assets as an alternative form of income — a powerful tool for borrowers who may not show traditional W-2 income but have substantial assets.

    Real Estate Market Conditions

    The market continues to reflect a form of equilibrium on the supply/demand side. Aggressively priced properties still generate strong activity, while overpriced homes sit on the market for extended periods.

    Seller Tip: Ensure your agent has you properly aligned with current comps for a realistic listing price.

    Buyer Tip: Consider targeting properties that have been on the market 30–60 days — sellers in that window may be more flexible on price.

    Economic Snapshot

    Last month’s employment report disappointed, with the economy shedding 90,000 jobs and prior month figures revised downward. It remains to be seen whether this reflects a broader slowdown or the continued displacement of positions by technology.

    The most recent CPI (inflation) report showed no change from the prior month — a neutral reading. However, next month’s report may be more challenging for the bond market to absorb if the conflict with Iran remains unresolved. Gas prices are a meaningful component of overall cost of living, and their trajectory will directly influence the rate environment.

    Notable Recent Transactions

    Property Type Loan Amount Details
    3-Unit Investment Property $3,450,000 75% LTV using bank statements
    SFR – Short-Term Rental $2,000,000 65% LTV; underwriting based on rental income from property management company

    Loan Programs At A Glance

    Program Ideal Borrower How They Qualify Key Benefit
    Conventional / Jumbo W-2 employees, first-time buyers & high-balance loans Tax returns, pay stubs, 2-yr employment history Conforming and jumbo loan amounts available
    Bank Statement Loans Self-employed, business owners & 1099 earners 12–24 months bank statements — no tax returns Great for buyers turned down by traditional banks
    Asset Utilization Retirees & high-net-worth buyers with portfolios Assets depleted over loan term = qualifying income No job or income needed — assets qualify them
    DSCR — Investor Loans Real estate investors — SFR or 2–4 unit properties Property cash flow covers mortgage — no personal income No property limit — scales with growing portfolios
    HELOC Homeowners looking to tap existing equity in their property Home equity line; flexible draws with multiple underwriting options Ideal for renovations, debt consolidation, or reserves
    Multi-Family Investors acquiring 5+ unit or mixed-use buildings Property income, DSCR, or commercial underwriting 5 to 100+ units — residential & commercial covered
    Construction Loans Buyers building a home or investors building rentals One-time close — covers land + full build cost Owner-occupied and investment construction eligible
    Commercial Owners buying offices, retail, warehouses, mixed-use Business financials, property income, or SBA programs Owner-occupied and investment properties both covered
    Reverse Mortgage Homeowners 62+ with significant equity in their home Age + equity qualifies — no monthly payment required Helps seniors stay in place or buy their next home

    5 Borrowers You May Be Missing

    • Self-Employed Turned Down Elsewhere: Bank statement loan — qualify on deposits, not taxes.
    • Investor Buying Their 8th+ Property: DSCR loan — no personal income docs, no property limit.
    • Retiree with $1M+ in Savings: Asset utilization — portfolio qualifies as income.
    • Client Wants to Build a Custom Home: Construction loan — land + build, one close.
    • Senior Sitting on Lots of Equity: Reverse mortgage — eliminates payment, frees cash.

    Why Partner With Centek

    • We Say YES When Others Can’t: Access to 50+ wholesale lenders — more options for every borrower.
    • One Relationship — Every Loan Type: Residential, commercial, construction, reverse — all under one roof.
    • Fast, Communicative Closings: Your reputation stays intact. We close on time, every time.
    • Co-Marketing Support: Co-branded flyers, social posts, and buyer guides at no cost.
    • Hard Deal Hotline for Partners: Tough scenario? Reach out before you give up — we’ll find a way.

    A complete menu of our loan products is attached for your reference. As always, we welcome your feedback and look forward to speaking with you soon.

    Best regards,
    Gloria Shulman
    Centek Capital Group | gloria@centek.com | centek.com

  • Mortgage & Real Estate Newsletter

    Mortgage & Real Estate Newsletter

    The mortgage market has remained in a narrow range for the past several months. We feel the interest rate complex is currently in a holding pattern until there is evidence of inflation getting closer to the 2% Fed target rate, or unemployment rises to a level of creating concern for the Federal Reserve. Neither one of these is occurring at this moment, but we are one or two CPI and employment reports away from a potential breakthrough in rates trending down. Another salient ingredient of this recipe is the level of indebtedness of the country. If the current administration can reign in spending and reduce the deficit, this will go a long way in potentially paving the way for lower rates as well, as servicing the massive debt is a burden to the nation. The ongoing effort of Elon Musk’s DOGE review of different agencies has the potential to really highlight the lack of government understanding of what monies are actually being spent on and how much waste there truly is — furthermore, reviewing the efficiencies and effectiveness of government versus hiring more people and throwing money at who knows what programs.

    As far as the mortgage market is concerned, rates have remained steady in the mid to high six percent range. We have successfully been closing both multifamily and commercial loans that had loans maturing or rates rolling without the borrower’s having to make any principal reductions. As a reminder, we offer a full spectrum of residential loan products that do not require tax returns. These loans are based on bank statements and/or rental income on the property.

    A few notable recently closed loans

    • $10,000,000 – 70-unit Affordable Housing Construction Loan with a local community bank.
    • $4,950,000 Sale in Newport Beach — 70% loan, challenging underwriting bank statement deal.
    • $750,000 fixed rate 2nd mortgage underwritten with business bank statements.

    As always, we look forward to answering your questions about potential financing.

    Stay Tuned! Very truly yours, Gloria, Curtis, Ted, Coby, Ben & all of us at Centek Capital Group!