The Journal

Notes on Mortgages

Honest writing on rates, loans, and the homebuying process — without the jargon.

Featured · June 11, 2026

First-Time Buyer in Humboldt: A Step-by-Step Field Guide

From pre-approval to keys in hand — the path most people don't see until they're standing in the middle of it.

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January 22, 2026

Does a Refinance Still Make Sense in 2026?

A simple framework for deciding whether the math actually works for your situation.