Freedom Mortgage: Comprehensive 2025 Update and What to Expect in 2026
Introduction to Freedom Mortgage
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Freedom Mortgage is one of the largest and most trusted full-service independent mortgage lending and servicing companies in the United States. Established in 1990 and headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, the company operates nationwide across all 50 states, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Known for being a top Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Federal Housing Administration (FHA) government-insured lender, Freedom Mortgage has become a reliable partner for millions of American homeowners.
Freedom Mortgage’s Achievements in 2024 and 2025
Repeated Recognition by Fannie Mae
Freedom Mortgage has been honored with the prestigious Fannie Mae STAR Performer Award for the ninth consecutive year in 2025. This accolade reflects the company’s operational excellence in mortgage servicing, showcasing its dedication to improving the housing industry through exceptional customer service and efficient loan management.
Key Metrics
- Serviced mortgages for over 2.5 million homeowners in 2024.
- Managed loans exceeding $625 billion.
- Assisted 316,000 borrowers with new home financing in 2024.
- Helped 50,000 borrowers improve their financial situations through loan modifications and partial claims.
Commitment to Communities
Through its philanthropic program, Freedom Cares, Freedom Mortgage continues to support communities across the country, focusing on veteran support and other social initiatives, fostering homeownership and financial well-being.
Current Mortgage Market and What It Means for Freedom Mortgage Customers
Mortgage Rate Trends in 2025
As of October 2025, average mortgage rates have slightly dipped, offering modest relief to homebuyers. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate currently hovers around 6.3%, down from above 7% in previous years. Despite this improvement, affordability challenges persist due to high home prices and limited inventory.
Factors Affecting Mortgage Rates
Mortgage rates largely follow the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond yield, influenced by inflation expectations, Federal Reserve policies, and investor sentiment. While the Federal Reserve signals cautious optimism, rate cuts are gradual, keeping mortgage borrowing costs relatively high for now.
What to Expect from Freedom Mortgage in 2026
Forecasted Mortgage Rate Developments
Economists forecast a gradual decline in mortgage rates, potentially averaging around 5.9% by the end of 2026. This slow trend is expected to create a more favorable environment for homebuyers and refinancers, although rates may remain volatile depending on economic indicators and Federal Reserve decisions.
Service and Growth Outlook
Freedom Mortgage is expected to leverage its strong servicing portfolio and capital to maintain and possibly expand its market share, continuing its role as a key player in supporting American homeownership.
Innovation and Customer Experience Enhancements
While specific technology or service upgrades for 2026 are not yet publicly detailed, Freedom Mortgage’s consistent focus on operational excellence and customer engagement suggests ongoing improvements in digital lending processes and borrower support.
Why Choose Freedom Mortgage?
Extensive Nationwide Reach
Licensed and operational in all states and territories, Freedom Mortgage offers accessibility wherever you live.
Specialized Government-Insured Loans
As one of the leading VA and FHA lenders, the company supports veterans, first-time homebuyers, and lower-income families with government-backed loan options.
Award-Winning Servicing
Repeated Fannie Mae recognition underscores Freedom Mortgage’s commitment to a seamless mortgage servicing experience.
FAQs about Freedom Mortgage and 2025-2026 Changes
1. What makes Freedom Mortgage a top VA and FHA lender?
- Freedom Mortgage specializes in government-insured loans and has a proven track record of support for veterans and first-time buyers through tailored loan solutions and excellent servicing.
2. Are mortgage rates expected to fall significantly in 2026?
- Mortgage rates are forecasted to gradually decline to around 5.9% by late 2026, but sharp drops are unlikely due to economic factors and Fed policies.
3. How does Freedom Mortgage compare to other lenders?
- Freedom Mortgage offers competitive mortgage products nationwide with strong servicing backed by repeated industry recognition.
4. Does Freedom Mortgage offer refinancing options?
- Yes, refinancing with Freedom Mortgage is available, and recent lower rates may provide cost savings for eligible borrowers.
5. Are there any recent changes in Freedom Mortgage’s loan servicing performance?
- The company continues to excel in servicing, maintaining top rankings and servicing over $625 billion in loans as of 2024.
6. Is Freedom Mortgage focusing on any new technologies or digital enhancements?
- While specific 2026 tech updates are not announced, Freedom Mortgage’s dedication to customer service implies continual improvements.
7. What is the significance of the Fannie Mae STAR Performer award?
- It recognizes mortgage servicers that demonstrate operational efficiency and customer support excellence, awarded to Freedom Mortgage for the ninth year running.
8. Will mortgage affordability improve in 2026?
- Affordability is likely to gradually improve with expected rate declines but may remain a challenge due to home prices and inventory issues.
9. Can first-time homebuyers benefit from Freedom Mortgage?
- Yes, Freedom Mortgage offers FHA and VA loans tailored for first-time buyers with accessible underwriting and support .
10. How can borrowers get started with Freedom Mortgage?
- Applications can be started online or by phone, with loan officers available to guide clients through options .
11. What support is available for borrowers facing financial hardship?
- Freedom Mortgage offers loan modifications and partial claims assistance, evidenced by helping 50,000 borrowers in 2024 .
12. Are there any expected policy or regulation changes affecting Freedom Mortgage?
- No major regulatory shifts are currently announced for 2025-2026, but ongoing Federal Reserve policy impacts mortgage rates .
13. Does Freedom Mortgage cater to jumbo loan borrowers?
- Yes, the company services jumbo loans along with conventional, VA, FHA, and USDA mortgage products .
14. How does Freedom Mortgage maintain its high servicing standards?
- Through continuous process improvements, staff training, and commitment to borrower satisfaction recognized by Fannie Mae .
15. What philanthropic initiatives is Freedom Mortgage involved in?
- Freedom Mortgage supports military families and other communities through its Freedom Cares program focused on charitable giving and volunteer work .
How might mortgage rates change in 2025 and 2026 in the US
Mortgage rates in the US during 2025 and 2026 are expected to experience a gradual decline but remain somewhat elevated compared to historical lows. As of late 2025, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate has slightly dipped to around 6.3%, down from previous highs above 7%. This moderate decrease offers some relief to homebuyers but affordability challenges continue due to persistent high home prices and limited housing inventory.
Economic factors influencing mortgage rates include inflation expectations, Federal Reserve monetary policy, and the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury bond. The Federal Reserve is likely to keep tightening monetary policies cautiously, which means interest rates should not drop sharply in the near term. Forecasts for 2026 suggest mortgage rates may edge lower to approximately 5.9% on average by the year’s end, improving borrowing conditions but still subject to economic volatility and policy changes.
In summary, while mortgage rates should become more favorable in 2026 compared to 2024-25, prospective homebuyers should anticipate rate fluctuations and prepare for moderately high borrowing costs relative to the last decade’s lows.
What upcoming regulations could impact Freedom Mortgage’s operations
Upcoming regulations likely to impact Freedom Mortgage’s operations in 2025 and 2026 focus mainly on federal regulatory changes led by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and new legislative actions
1. CFPB Regulatory Agenda and Mortgage Servicing Rule Revisions
The CFPB has an ambitious regulatory agenda for 2025, which includes plans to finalize revisions to mortgage servicing rules by December 2025. These revisions could impose significant operational burdens on mortgage servicers like Freedom Mortgage, particularly around borrower protections and servicing standards. The mortgage industry has expressed concerns about potential legal challenges due to the scale and complexity of these proposals. Additionally, the CFPB plans to review and possibly rescind discretionary provisions related to loan originator compensation under the Truth in Lending Act (TILA).
2. Potential Changes to Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) Compliance
The CFPB is considering rulemaking to clarify or modify compliance obligations related to the ECOA, possibly affecting how Freedom Mortgage handles credit opportunities and non-discrimination compliance, especially following a 2025 executive order aimed at limiting disparate-impact liability
3. Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act (H.R.2808)
Legislation passed in 2025 aims to limit the sale of mortgage-trigger leads by credit bureaus, reducing unsolicited marketing to borrowers. This could affect Freedom Mortgage’s marketing and customer outreach strategies by restricting third-party lead sources.
4. Stability and Tighter Lending Standards
Federal Reserve surveys and regulatory environment indicate continuing cautious lending with tighter standards in some bank categories. While larger banks ease some standards for construction loans, smaller banks tighten loan-to-value and debt service coverage requirements, influencing the overall mortgage lending market that Freedom Mortgage operates in
5. Tax Rule Changes Affecting Homeownership (IRS 2026)
Upcoming IRS tax changes related to homeownership could influence mortgage demand. Freedom Mortgage will need to adapt to any policy shifts impacting mortgage interest deduction or other tax benefits for homeowners.
Summary
Freedom Mortgage faces a dynamic regulatory environment with significant servicing rule changes, compliance clarifications, and marketing restrictions likely in 2025-26. The company’s operational agility and compliance readiness will be crucial to navigate these developments effectively.
How will Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act change lead generation for lenders
The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, passed in 2025, is expected to significantly alter lead generation practices for lenders by restricting the sale and sharing of mortgage-triggered leads by credit bureaus. This legislation aims to enhance consumer privacy and limit unsolicited marketing, which will have the following effects on lenders:
Impact on Lead Generation
1. Reduced Access to Third-Party Leads
Lenders traditionally relied on credit bureaus to sell mortgage-triggered leads to marketing firms and other lenders. The Act restricts or bans this sale, meaning lenders will have less access to highly targeted, cold leads generated from credit inquiries. Consequently, lenders like Freedom Mortgage will need to develop alternative strategies for prospecting.
2. Shift Toward Organic and Direct Marketing
With restrictions on third-party leads, lenders will pivot toward organic growth channels such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and direct outreach through referral partners. This shift may require increased investment in digital platforms, social media, and borrower relationship management.
3. Emphasis on Customer Referrals and Loyalty Programs
Lenders will focus more on cultivating existing customer relationships and word-of-mouth referrals, leveraging loyal clients to generate quality leads. Enhanced customer service and engagement campaigns will be key to sustaining lead flow.
4. Use of Data-Driven Personalization
Due to limited access to broad lead pools, lenders will utilize data analytics to identify and target more qualified prospects through personalized marketing campaigns, thus improving conversion rates while complying with new privacy rules.
Long-Term Outlook
The legislation encourages a more consumer-centric approach, emphasizing consent and privacy, which aligns with increased trust and customer loyalty. However, in the short term, lenders may experience a dip in volume from traditional lead sources and will need to innovate with new, compliant lead generation methods.
Conclusion
The Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act is likely to reshape lead generation for mortgage lenders, prompting a shift from reliance on third-party purchased leads to more organic and relationship-based strategies, ultimately promoting privacy and trust but requiring adaptation and innovation in marketing approaches.
Which state-level laws in 2025 target mortgage lead practices
In 2025, several states—Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Utah, and Texas—passed or updated laws specifically targeting mortgage lead generation practices, especially regarding “trigger leads.” These state-level laws regulate or restrict the sale and use of trigger leads (leads generated when a consumer applies for a mortgage and their credit inquiry triggers the creation of marketing leads for other lenders) in the following ways:
- Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Texas, and Utah:- These states require clear disclosures to consumers about how their information was obtained and prohibit contacting consumers who have opted out of prescreened offers under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). They also restrict calls to individuals listed on the national Do-Not-Call registry.
- Texas:- Enacted regulations in late 2024, requiring mortgage companies to explain the sourcing of contact data, declare lack of affiliation with the consumer’s original lender, and prohibit misleading communications when using trigger leads.
- Utah:- The law is more restrictive for third parties and does not provide exemptions for lenders servicing the existing indebtedness of the applicant.
- General Licensing Requirements:- Many states require lead generators to be licensed and compliant with state mortgage or consumer loan laws. Licensing triggers include solicitation, negotiation, placing, or assisting borrowers
These laws join ongoing federal efforts (such as the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act) and are part of a growing push for consumer privacy, transparency, and protection in mortgage lead practices.
What are the compliance steps for lead generators under 2025 regulations
Lead generators operating under 2025 regulations must follow a series of important compliance steps to lawfully generate, manage, and distribute mortgage leads, especially in states with strict rules. Here are the key compliance steps:
1. Obtain Required State Licenses
Lead generators must secure and maintain all necessary state-level licenses for mortgage or consumer loan lead generation. Most states now require licensing if you are soliciting, negotiating, or assisting borrowers, even if you are not making loans directly.
2. Provide Clear Consumer Disclosures
When contacting consumers, lead generators must disclose how the consumer’s information was obtained, clarify that they are not affiliated with the consumer’s original lender, and provide accurate information about their own identity and intentions.
3. Respect Opt-Out and Do-Not-Call Registries
Lead generators must check both national and state do-not-call registries before making contact. If a consumer has opted out of trigger leads or prescreened offers through the FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act), lead generators are prohibited from reaching out using this data.
4. Avoid Deceptive or Misleading Marketing
All marketing materials, outreach scripts, and communications must honestly represent the company’s role. Any suggestion that the lead generator is the consumer’s original lender is prohibited. Deceptive or ambiguous language about loan offers is also banned.
5. Document and Track Compliance Efforts
Lead generators should keep detailed records of their licensing, consumer disclosures, and marketing activities. Compliance audits and document retention are increasingly required by both state and federal agencies.
6. Train Staff and Update Processes
Regularly train all team members and affiliates on evolving laws and company compliance procedures. Update scripts, policies, and technology platforms to stay compliant with all updates to state and federal laws.
These steps are critical to avoid regulatory penalties, lawsuits, and reputational damage in the highly regulated lead generation landscape of 2025.
How do new laws affect mortgage lead generation strategies
New laws in 2025 have fundamentally transformed mortgage lead generation strategies by imposing stricter compliance standards, limiting the use of trigger leads, and elevating the importance of consumer privacy.
Impact of New Regulations
- Reduced Reliance on Trigger Leads:- Many states and federal laws now restrict the sale and use of trigger leads. Lenders and lead generators must avoid contacting consumers who have opted out and adhere to enhanced opt-in requirements, curtailing access to instantly generated leads from credit inquiries.
- Increased Licensing and Disclosure:- States demand licensing for lead generators and require clear, transparent disclosures about how consumer data is sourced and used. This expands legal responsibilities and operational costs for firms using purchased leads.
- Enhanced Data Privacy and Consent:- Lead generators must respect do-not-call registries and FCRA opt-outs, stopping unsolicited outreach to protected consumers. This reduces mass marketing effectiveness and pushes strategies toward consumer-driven engagement.
Strategic Shifts in Lead Generation
- Emphasis on Organic and Referral Channels:- Mortgage companies are investing more in content marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), reputation management, social media engagement, and customer loyalty programs to generate leads responsibly and cost-effectively.
- Direct Partnerships and Networking:- Building relationships with real estate agents, financial advisors, and previous clients is increasingly vital, as referral and repeat business now yield the most compliant, high-quality leads.
- Personalized Digital Engagement:- Firms use advanced analytics and technology to target the right prospects while complying with privacy laws, creating tailored marketing communications based on consented interactions.
Long-Term Effects
Overall, new laws encourage a consumer-centric, transparent approach, making lead generation more ethical but also more complex and resource-intensive. Success depends on compliance agility and building trust-based relationships rather than mass outbound tactics.