The US Trade deficit was significantly wider than expectations this morning.  Even with the Initial Jobless claims beating expectations, the Fannie Mae Mortgage Backed Securities are +12bp currently.  We ended the day yesterday with about +26bp so long term mortgage rates have seen some benefit.  The credit tightening has shown no signs of letting up in regards to mortgage lending.  United Guarantee [the Mortgage Insurance Company] sent notification yesterday that they will be making major overhauls to their mortgage insurance guidelines.  All of St. Louis will now be considered a declining market, limiting loan to values [LTV] to 90%.  They require a 680 credit score for conventional loans to $417,000.  Also, they will no longer insure cash out, A-Minus, Limited Doc, Second Homes, Condos, Investment Properties, Arms, and will require 5% down payment from the buyers own funds [no gifts or grants].  Let’s hope everyone doesn’t follow suit with this overreaction.  I recommend locking and closing if you are in a position to.

30 Fixed/apr | 5.625%/5.725%

15 Fixed/apr | 5.375%/5.475%

FHA/apr | 5.5%/5.95%