September 2026 Newsletter

Sept Newsletter AAM - 16by9

Welcome to the September edition of the Atlantic Avenue Mortgage Monthly Newsletter!

At Atlantic Avenue Mortgage, innovation is about creating what comes next. It is how we improve the client experience, strengthen our team, and build a company capable of reaching more homeowners in more places.

As we continue to grow, that mindset is opening new doors.

The investments we have made in our people, technology, training, and processes have created a stronger foundation for expansion. With that foundation in place, we are preparing to bring the Atlantic Avenue experience to homeowners in new states and new markets.

For us, expansion is about more than adding to a map. It is about creating the opportunity to help more homeowners understand their options, make informed financial decisions, and experience the personalized service that has always been central to who we are.

And there is more ahead.

Over the coming months, we look forward to sharing some exciting updates about where Atlantic Avenue is growing next. Each new market represents another opportunity to expand our impact while continuing to raise the standard for the experience we provide.

Better means never standing still. As Atlantic Avenue continues to evolve, we are excited to take what we have built, keep improving it, and bring it to more homeowners across the country.

Stay tuned. Atlantic Avenue is growing.


Word on the Street

We’re pleased to share a recent client review that highlights what we aim to deliver in every interaction: clear guidance, responsive communication, and a steady commitment to service. Client feedback matters to us because it reflects the real experience of the individuals and families we support. Here is a review recently shared about Gabriel Brizuela’s work with a client:

“What a pleasure working with Gabriel Brizuela in my home refinance, highly knowledgeable and very patient listening to me and explaining all my questions.”

-Maria

Gabriel Brizuela, one of our Loan Originators, had the following to say about the role he played helping this client:

What was the borrower hoping to accomplish when they began the refinance process, and how did your team help support that objective?

The borrowers’ primary goal when they began the refinance process was to lower their interest rate. Our team supported that objective by taking the time to understand exactly what they were looking to accomplish and then exploring the options available to them. As the nation’s No. 1 reverse mortgage broker, we work with leading lenders across the industry, allowing us to shop multiple options and find a solution that best fits each homeowner’s individual needs and financial goals.

In your view, what are the most important factors in creating a smooth and positive borrower experience?

One of the most important factors is education. My goal is not just to help a senior homeowner complete a transaction, but to make sure they truly understand the product they are considering and how it can benefit them.

Many of the senior homeowners I speak with already have a reverse mortgage but still have questions about how it works or what their options are. I make it a priority to slow down, answer those questions, and make sure they are comfortable with their decision. It may take an extra few minutes, but that additional time can make a significant difference in creating a smooth, positive experience and giving the homeowner confidence in their decision.

 How does feedback like this reinforce Atlantic Avenue Mortgage’s broader commitment to service, education, and client care?

Feedback like this reinforces Atlantic Avenue Mortgage’s commitment to providing exceptional service, education, and client care. We genuinely care about every homeowner who reaches out to us, and we want every client to feel that throughout their experience.

I also believe it is important to receive feedback from every client, whether it is positive or constructive. It gives us an opportunity to understand where we are succeeding and where we can continue to improve. That feedback helps us grow as loan officers, improve the client experience, and continue raising the standard of service we provide to every homeowner who puts their trust in Atlantic Avenue Mortgage.


Market Updates

Reverse Mortgages:

  • Atlantic Avenue Mortgage held its #1 rank as top broker in the nation according to the June HECM Snapshot Reports
  • VantageScore, a competitor to the market standard FICO score, will now be accepted for use on FHA products beginning January 1st, 2027.
    • With additional competition in the industry, consumers may see a decrease in costs during the mortgage process.

Home Buyer Information:

  • US home values continue to grow at a snail’s pace, leaving buyers with more time to decide on their next move.1
  • Sunbelt home values have risen much slower since the COVID-19 boom. Major markets like San Antonio, Austin, and Raleigh have even seen slight year-over-year decreases. 2

State of the Market:

  • For the first time since July 2023, the Federal Funds Effective Rate was increased.
    • The Fed decided to raise the Effective Rate by .25%, from 3.75% to 4%
    • The Fed justified this decision by stating “Inflation remains elevated. Today’s policy action will support a timelier return to the Committee’s 2 percent goal. The Committee will deliver price stability.”3
  • Treasury Yields continue to rise, with the 10-Year Treasury rising above 5% for the first time since the 2007, and 30 year mortgage rates reaching 7% as of the time of publication.4
  • Gas prices remain at an elevated level but remain 50 cents lower than the highs of 2022.5

Sources

  1. ICE Mortgage Monitor Report, September 2026, p.5
  2. ICE Mortgage Monitor Report, September 2026, p.6
  3. Federal Reserve Issues FOMC Statement, September 2026
  4. 30-Year Fixed Rate Mortgage Average in the United States, Freddie Mac via FRED®
  5. US Regular All Formulations Gas Price, U.S. Energy Information Administration via FRED®

 

Written on Sep 24, 2026